When the Tidal Basin is abloom with its annual display of pink and white petals, we take time to remember the presidential first ladies. Helen Taft was the first presidential spouse to observe the traditional Japanese custom of hanami, or flower watching, in the United States. Subsequent first ladies have continued the tradition of DC’s “spring rite” as honorary chairs of the Cherry Blossom Festival.

The Women Who Planted The Cherry Trees on the National Mall

The cherry trees on the National Mall have more than 100 years of rich and vibrant history. At the root of their story are a few powerful and trailblazing women who have changed the National Mall environment to how we know it today. As our community comes together to celebrate the cherry blossom season, the Trust for the National Mall is celebrating Women’s History Month, recognizing the women who aligned their strengths to enrich the National Mall with our iconic cherry trees.

The Tidal Basin: An Endangered National Treasure

This cherished and deeply symbolic place is at a pivotal moment, as subsidence, daily flooding, increasing visitation, and crumbling infrastructure threaten its long-term sustainability.

Jefferson Memorial Seawall

The Trust helped leverage more than $150 million in federal dollars for restoration projects on the National Mall, including repairing the sinking plaza in front of the Jefferson Memorial.

TRUST FOR THE NATIONAL MALL