Abstract: A tree stand and an apparatus for securing the tree stand to a tree. The tree stand includes a bracket having a pair of spaced apart cleats located at each of its ends and a removable seating portion. A chain or the like is attached to the upper end of the bracket for encircling the tree. A slotted plate is welded to one side of the bracket for receiving the free end of the chain. A handle is attached to the lower end of the bracket. In operation, the chain is wrapped around the tree and engaged in the slotted plate. The handle is then pulled downward causing the chain to be tightened about the tree and both pairs of cleats to engage the tree surface. The seating portion of the tree stand is then inserted in the upper portion of the bracket and the weight of the stand keeps the bracket in position. The seating portion of the tree stand may be removed from the bracket as needed or moved to other trees having extra brackets as required.