Japanese Benefactor Donates 14 Cherry Blossoms To Southcoast Area

The longlasting friendship between Fairhaven and Japan was honored Tuesday, as a generous benefactor donated over a dozen cherry blossom trees.

100-year-old Dr. Shigaeki Hirohana donated the 14 Sakura trees, which have been planted throughout Fairhaven and New Bedford. Selectboard Chairman Dr. Brian Bowcock tells WBSM News the trees symbolize the special relationship between Japan and Fairhaven.

Dr. Hinohara has been the longtime benefactor of the Friendship House Museum in Fairhaven, which preserves the history of Manjiro's rescue from sea by Captain William Whitman in 1841.