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NewsSouth Florida ReporterJuly 16, 2026United States

A History and Guide to Cherries

This article provides a historical overview of cherry cultivation, cultural traditions, and nutritional information. It covers the fruit's origins, its introduction to North America, and various fun facts regarding its production and usage.

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Why It Matters

The document provides general information about the history and characteristics of cherries but does not establish any new laws, regulations, or financial impacts for residents.

Key Facts

  • National Cherry Day is celebrated on July 16.
  • Britain lost 90% of its cherry orchards during the 20th century.
  • Modern U.S. cherry production began in 1852 in Michigan.
  • A law prohibiting ice cream on cherry pie in Kansas was enacted in 1905 and repealed in 2004.
  • Door County, Wisconsin, produced 95% of U.S. tart cherries in the 1950s.
  • The world record for cherry stone spitting is 93 feet 6.5 inches.
  • There are over 1,000 wild cherry varieties, but fewer than 10 are grown commercially.
  • An average cherry pie contains more than 250 cherries.
  • A sweet cherry tree produces approximately 800 cherries in an average crop year.
  • Turkey is the largest cherry producer in the world, followed by the U.S.
  • Cherry pits can release toxins if chewed.
  • The word 'cherry' derives from the French word 'cherise'.

Who's Mentioned

personPeter Dougherty“Began planting cherry trees in Michigan in 1852.”personKing Charles V“Planted over 1,000 cherry trees in the 1300s.”locationMichigan“State where modern U.S. cherry production began.”personJon Friedl“Known as Professor Slots, commented on cherries in gambling.”personParson Mason Weems“Created the myth about George Washington and the cherry tree.”personHenry VIII“Brought cherries to England in the 1500s.”personTheophrastus“Greek author who wrote about cherries in 300 BC.”personHerb Teichman“Organized the first cherry pit spitting contest.”locationTraverse City“Known as the Cherry Capital of the World.”personGeorge Washington“Subject of a myth regarding a cherry tree.”locationDoor County“Known as Cherryland USA.”