Hi! My name is Tilly. I used to live in the Linden Tree in Tilburg, and it was my home for a very long time. I’ve seen the tree in many different stages of its life. From when it was just a small sapling, to the days it stood strong and tall on the hill, even when it became weaker and weaker, until it was eventually cut down. I have a lot of memories of my home, meaning both the Linden Tree and Tilburg itself. My favorite thing about living in the iconic tree was the people. People would visit the tree and just take some time to sit in peace and take a moment of peace, or meet up with friends and loved ones. Seeing the different types of happiness people found under my tree made me feel like a part of something bigger, learning the stories of all these visitors and, through them, the stories of the city. Though the visitors were not able to see me through the thick layer leaves, I remember every single face and every single story.
I particularly remember the saddest day, the downfall of the tree. However, when I think back to this day, I don’t hear the screeching sounds the saw made when it cut into my home, or the creaking of the tree when it was lifted. I remember the way people showed up, sharing the tree’s last moments with me and with each other. I remember how, even in its last moments, the magnificent Linden Tree managed to bring people together. Even now, with the original tree long gone, I can see the far reaches of the roots still, both in people’s minds and in the connection that prevails throughout the city. I’m proud of this city, of the people who made this place a home throughout the centuries, and I would love to share this love with you and other people from all over the world. By following the metaphorical roots throughout the city, I want to show you the stories of Tilburg, of its history, its people, and the connection that still stands at the heart of Tilburg.
