Cherry trees by the Tidal Basin, thanks to Republicans

On this day in 1912, the first cherry trees were planted along the Tidal Basin in Washington, DC.  For nearly a century, this beautiful setting has been a spring-time favorite in the nation's capital.

While living in Japan, Helen Taft, future wife of President William Howard Taft (R-OH), had become fond of the Japanese cherry tree, particularly its pink blossoms.  Learning of this, the Japanese ambassador arranged for the city of Tokyo to donate 3,020 cherry trees.  The original plan had been to scatter them throughout the city, but the First Lady insisted that they all be planted along the Tidal Basin, near the National Mall.  Sensational idea!

Michael Zak is a popular speaker to Republican organizations around the country, showing office-holders, candidates and activists how they would benefit tremendously from appreciating our Party's heritage of civil rights achievement.  Back to Basics for the Republican Party is his acclaimed history of the GOP from the Republican point of view.  See www.republicanbasics.com for more information.