Anyone from the Kalkaska area?

I just drove through there for the umteen millionth time and am still wondering what the signifigance of the shoe tree is? It has been there for several years and my kids ask when are we going to see the shoe tree again.

I live in Traverse City and pass by that shoe tree often.  It has been there as long as I can remember, and don't really know how it came to be.  I do have a question about it in to my ex, who is from the area.  I'll see if he can answer it for us.

http://www.city-data.com/picfilesc/picc31574.php  Check out this website for the significance.
Jan