Friday, August 7, 2026

Question: Besides being the Nation’s Christmas Tree, the General Grant Tree in Kings Canyon got a second official title from President Eisenhower in 1956—one no other living thing has ever held. What is it?

Answer: A Living National Shrine, a memorial to Americans who died in war. It is the only living object ever given that designation, and each December a wreath is laid at its base during the annual Trek to the Tree ceremony.