America’s Cherry Blossom Centennial

In 1912, the Mayor of Tokyo gave 3,020 Japanese flowering cherry trees to the city of Washington, D.C. Intended as a gift to symbolize positive present and future relations between the two countries, the trees were planted along the Tidal Basin and in other areas. The year 2012 is sure to be marked by various events commemorating the
centennial. For example, in January the USPS announced an exciting diptych-style stamp depicting the tidal basin surrounded by blooming cherry trees with the Washington and Jefferson monuments in the background.

This slide lecture reveals the history of this gift of enduring beauty in the nation's capital. Art historian Jeff Mishur discusses events that prompted the gift from Japan, the impact of anti-Japanese sentiment during World War Ii, and the story of The National Cherry Blossom Festival. Registration required.