The Historic Elms of Mount Pleasant

About this event

Learn about the amazing American Elm trees in DC's Mount Pleasant neighborhood and the residents who helped to save them.

Join Stella Tarnay, co-founder of Capital Nature, and Mount Pleasant Village for a fascinating program on the beloved historic trees of DC’s Mount Pleasant neighborhood, and the pioneering residents who organized to save them.

American Elms once lined the streets of many U.S. city streets, including in Washington DC. Unfortunately, due to Dutch Elm Disease, many started to die out during the second half of the 20th century. In Mount Pleasant, residents stepped forward. They organized to steward the beautiful native trees, including applying a pioneering anti-fungal treatment that was later adopted by the District and urban forestry agencies across the country. Because of their early efforts, the neighbohrood still has some of its original American Elms today. This program will include:

• A slide presentation on the American Elm and its cultural history

• Shared stories from Mount Pleasant residents who helped save them

• Reflections from today’s neighborhood tree stewards and challenges they are now addressing

This program is hosted by Mount Pleasant Library and organized by Capital Nature in collaboration with Mount Pleasant Village.

From Capital Nature