Eliza Scidmore: The Trailblazing Journalist Behind Washington's Cherry Trees

Eliza Scidmore was a pioneering female journalist who fought to bring Japanese cherry trees to Washington, D.C. Born on the American frontier just before the Civil War, she rose from modest beginnings to become a journalist who roamed far and wide writing about distant places for readers back home. By the end of the nineteenth century, her travels were so legendary she was introduced at a meeting in London as "Miss Scidmore, of everywhere." Scidmore carried home from Japan a big idea that helped shape the face of modern Washington: she urged the city's park officials to plant Japanese cherry trees on a reclaimed mud bank-today's Potomac Park. Though they rebuffed her suggestion several times, she finally got her way nearly three decades later thanks to the support of First Lady Helen Taft.

Format: Hardback
Length: 448 pages
Publication date: 01 March 2023
Publisher: Oxford University Press

Eliza Scidmore, a pioneering female journalist who lived over a century ago, defied societal norms and followed her passion to explore the world. Born on the American frontier just before the Civil War, she rose from humble beginnings to become a renowned writer who traveled extensively, covering distant lands and sharing her experiences with readers back home. By her mid-20s, Scidmore had visited more places than most people would see in a lifetime. By the end of the 19th century, her travels had become legendary, and she was introduced as "Miss Scidmore, of everywhere" at a meeting in London.

Scidmore's most significant legacy is her efforts to bring Japanese cherry trees to Washington, D.C. Despite facing initial resistance from city park officials, she persisted and eventually succeeded, thanks to the support of First Lady Helen Taft. Scidmore's determination and perseverance paid off, as the cherry trees she planted on a reclaimed mud bank in what is now Potomac Park have become a symbol of the city.

In addition to her travels, Scidmore was a witness to many significant events and interacted with famous figures, including John Muir, Alexander Graham Bell, U.S. presidents, and Japanese leaders. She played a crucial role in popularizing Alaska tourism during the early days of the cruise industry and educated readers about Japan and other Far Eastern countries at a time when the U.S. was expanding its interests across the Pacific.

At the early National Geographic, Scidmore made history as the first woman to serve on its board and publish photographs in the magazine. She also contributed to other publications and authored several books, including "The Story of Japan," which helped to increase awareness and understanding of the country.

Scidmore's life was filled with adventure, determination, and a deep love for the world. She was a trailblazer who paved the way for women in journalism and inspired generations of adventurers and explorers. Her legacy continues to be celebrated and remembered, reminding us of the power of independent women to shape the world and follow their dreams.

Weight: 724g
Dimension: 223 x 147 x 28 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780198869429