Cherry Blossom Land at Branch Brook Park

Book excerpt: Cherry Blossom Land at Branch Brook Park: A Bamberger Fuld Legacy presents the history of the Japanese cherry trees in Newark, New Jersey with spectacular images of the local cherry blossoms photographed by the author. The Japanese cherry trees are surrounded by beautiful Branch Brook Park, the first county park in the United States. Cherry Blossom Land at Branch Brook Park also details the remarkable life of Caroline Bamberger Fuld, who gifted the first cherry trees to Branch Brook Park in 1927. Today, Branch Brook Park embodies 359 lush acres of forest and fields with stunning landscapes. Architecturally diverse bridges span small lakes and gushing streams. Branch Brook Park follows the Japanese tradition of honoring the delicate beauty and short life span of the cherry blossom with annual festivals. Cherry Blossom Land at Branch Brook Park provides a “how to” approach for the identification of cherry trees in the park. It also encourages “hanami”, the delightful pastime of cherry blossom viewing first practiced by 7 century Japanese aristocrats. Branch Brook Park is listed in both the New Jersey and National Registers of Historic Places