The following day, the same women chained themselves to a tree at the construction site, with hopes to stop the work.Ī group of approximately 150 women, led by Patterson, seized shovels from workers, re-filled holes, and prepared for a stand-off against workers and bulldozers in order to help save the trees. On November 17, 1938, the day construction began on the Thomas Jefferson Memorial, 50 women marched on the White House, armed with a petition to stop the damage to the trees. Roosevelt administration, and organized individuals to take action. Eleanor "Cissy" Patterson, the owner and editor of the Washington Times-Herald, published several articles criticizing the Franklin D. What occurred next was "The Cherry Tree Rebellion." Citizens, clubs, boards, and associations of Washington began a city-wide protest against the destruction of these splendid trees. The present-day location at the Tidal Basin was selected in 1937, but indignant public criticism soon followed because building in that location would result in the removal of Japanese flowering cherry trees from the Tidal Basin area. For Washingtonians, the trees came to symbolize a natural splendor at the center of our nation's capital, adding rich and colorful sights to the city, and something that would be cherished and visited by thousands of visitors for several years.īy 1936, the Thomas Jefferson Memorial Commission was formed and planning got under way for construction. These were planted at East Potomac Park, Washington Monument Grounds, and along the Tidal Basin. Originally there were 3,020 cherry trees of 12 different varieties. In 1912, First Lady Helen Taft and the Viscountess Chinda, wife of the Japanese Ambassador, planted the first two Yoshino cherry trees on the north end of the Tidal Basin. Loud protests against the building of the memorial and the removal of the cherished trees resulted in a great battle by several Washingtonians. Yet the story behind the scenery and the memorial is filled with turmoil and controversy.
Cherrytree management full#
Visitors strolling to the Thomas Jefferson Memorial along the Tidal Basin when the cherry trees are in full bloom enjoy a spectacular view.
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