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Ranger Journal

About This Blog

Explore the history, culture, science, nature, architecture, and stories that link the iconic spaces in the National Mall and Memorial Parks to our nation and its people. The articles collected here are produced by NPS staff at the National Mall and Memorial Parks.

First Lady of Potomac Park: Nellie Taft

April 15, 2012 Posted by: Janet Buerger, Park Ranger

Within a month First Lady Taft had driven the first presidential auto to the new Potomac Park "Speedway," which she promptly renamed Potomac Drive, returning in hours with a plan for a Potomac Park.

History, Biography, First Lady, Helen Taft, East Potomac Park, West Potomac Park, George Mason Memorial, Cherry Blossoms, Tidal Basin
 

Did You Know?

Burning of Cherry Trees

The original gift of Cherry Trees from Japan in 1910 had to be destroyed due to disease and infestation.  There was an additional gift made two years later that became the basis for the trees we still have today. More...