Aug. 17, 2004 / Updated Aug. 27, 2004

Tree Dedication to Celebrate 100 Years of the GW Name

In celebration of the 100th anniversary of the University’s change from Columbian University to The George Washington University, GW will dedicate a unique addition to the campus landscape Sept. 1 at 11 am. A white ash cloned from one of the 13 remaining trees planted by George Washington on his Mount Vernon estate will adorn Kogan Plaza alongside Gelman Library between the Tempieto and the University clock. The rare cloned specimen, donated by the Mount Vernon Estate and Gardens, comes from a tree originally planted in 1785 along Washington’s bowling green.

University President Stephen Joel Trachtenberg and members of the Historic Mount Vernon and George Washington Universitry families invite the community to this event. A reception will follow. In case of inclement weather, the Marvin Center will host the dedication.

In January 1904, at the behest of individuals and groups working to realize George Washington's desire for a national university in the nation's capital, Congress authorized the Columbian University to be renamed The George Washington University. On Sept. 1, 1904, the University officially adopted use of its new name.

Send feedback to: bygeorge@gwu.edu