Albany Shoe Tree – Albany, Indiana - Atlas Obscura

Albany Shoe Tree

Albany, Indiana

One tree's homage to soles past and present. 

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If there’s one thing small-town folks in Indiana know, it’s not to let something special pass them by. If that thing is a little strange, well, it won’t be for long. Such was the case with the “Shoe Tree” in Albany, Indiana, which started as a quirky tradition for local teenagers, but grew to be embraced by the entire community.

It’s not altogether unusual to see a pair of old shoes tied together and hanging somewhere public - in a tree, on some power lines, or off an overhang. But in Albany, one grew to hundreds, and became a local point of pride.

The actual number of shoes hanging from the Shoe Tree fluctuates, with weather and meddlesome visitors occasionally removing them. But on a warm summer day, it might be worth a stroll to this point of communal history, to see just how many people have chosen to proudly participate.

Know Before You Go

Take Highway 28 to Strong Road, pass Strong Cemetery and turn right onto Edgewater road. The tree is visible from the road.

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March 26, 2012

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