Polish Apple Trees in the Heart of New York!

We have reminded and strengthened the Polish-American friendship in our own unique, apple tree-themed way!

On September 19, 2023, at the Carlyle Hotel in New York, a special event was organized by our State of Poland Foundation, the American “Tree Time” Foundation, and the Consulate General of the Republic of Poland in New York. We celebrated the historical bonds of friendship connecting our two nations. Some time ago, we gifted over 300 apple tree saplings to the parks of New York. During the recent ceremony at the Carlyle Hotel, 17 of these trees were named in honor of distinguished Poles and Americans who contributed to strengthening Polish-American relations.

The ceremony was initiated by Włodzimierz Dola, President of the “State of Poland” Foundation, presenting the idea behind planting apple trees. CEO Beata Daszyńska-Muzyczka from the Bank Gospodarstwa Krajowego discussed the significance of apple trees as important symbols of friendship between Poland and the USA. Adrian Kubicki, the Consul General of the Republic of Poland in New York, highlighted the contribution of selected individuals in building bridges between our nations, while Daniel Pipes, the son of one of the honored individuals, Richard Pipes, remembered his father, a member of the National Security Council during Ronald Reagan’s presidency.

At the highlight of the ceremony, Danuta Nierada from the State of Poland Foundation unveiled plaques commemorating those in whose honor the donated apple trees were named. Among the honorees were Tadeusz Kościuszko – a hero of the US independence battles and builder of West Point, director Merian C. Cooper – a volunteer from the 7th Fighter Squadron called “Kościuszko”, Kazimierz Pułaski known as the Father of the American Cavalry, and Julien Bryan – a reporter who ensured the world knew of Poland’s 1939 tragedy. Also recognized was Sergeant Michael Ollis and the memory of his heroic act in Afghanistan where he died saving the life of a Polish officer.

After the official part, the “Jabłonki” gala took place, highlighted by a performance by the Polish jazz trio Rotker-Lynn and a tasting of dishes and drinks based on Polish apples.

The initiative to plant apple trees in the “Big Apple” (as Americans colloquially call New York) is a significant gesture underscoring the indomitable bond of Polish-American friendship. The histories of Poland and the United States are intertwined, with many Poles having had a significant impact on shaping American history and culture. Conversely, many Americans developed a special love for Poland and defended it on the military and political fronts over the years.