Back in the days when Washington’s birthday was a holiday, when kids were still taught that the Father of Our Country really did chop down a cherry tree, when a teenager would be thrilled to win a new electric range–that was when the National Red Cherry Institute’s annual cherry pie baking contest reached its zenith. Taking top honors this time was Beverley Jones of Ogden, Utah. Though only 18, the young queen of America’s favorite sugary pastry was no fool; she aspired to be a dental hygienist.
Number of pies that the average cherry tree can fill: 28.
Percentage of Americans who in 1956 ranked George Washington among the three greatest presidents: 47. In 2001: 5.
Chances that the cherry trees are actually in bloom during the annual cherry blossom festival in Washington, D.C.: 1 in 7.
Number of grand-prize-winning Pillsbury Bake-Off recipes that featured cherries: 1.
