U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree, 'Sew’isnimeepeme,' Begins Journey from Idaho to Washington D.C.
The U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree, a 76-foot Engelmann Spruce named 'Sew’isnimeepeme' by the Nez Perce Tribe, has commenced its journey from the Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forest in north-central Idaho to the west lawn of the U.S. Capitol. This tradition, where the U.S. Forest Service provides the 'People's Tree' from one of its 154 national forests, has been ongoing since 1970. The host forest is responsible for selecting the tree, creating thousands of ornaments, and coordinating the logistics of its multi-week whistle-stop tour across the country. The Nez Perce Tribe blessed the tree before its departure, with its name meaning 'One from Musselshell,' referencing a historically significant gathering place for the tribe. The tree's journey includes several stops in various states before reaching Washington D.C.
