Wind Storm Knocks Over Tree George Washington Planted

A tree George Washington himself planted 227 years ago at the Mount Vernon estate was taken down during the strong wind storm Friday.

Washington planted the Canadian Hemlock in 1791, two years into his presidency. The Mount Vernon Estate said the tree came in half whiskey barrel from the then New York Gov. George Clinton. Washington planted the tree outside the upper garden gate.

The winds, reaching up to 60 mph, also brought down a Virginia cedar that had overlooked Washington's tomb.

If there's any good news, the estate is considering using the wood to make souvenirs. The estate has done so in the past when trees have fallen.

Image via Mount Vernon