Foxcroft School's storied Cherry Tree Alley bloomed beautifully this month to herald Spring and to honor former Director of Riding Margaret Lee who died unexpectedly in a horse cart accident.

Originally planted in the 1930's, the trees had greatly surpassed their life expectancy. Miss Margaret was worried and saddened by the prospect of eventually losing this beautiful landscape feature on the campus. Suddenly realized that by back-planting the original trees with young weeping cherries, the beautiful alley would never die.

After she died so suddenly, a group of her local friends and admirers agreed that back-planting the original Cherry Tree Alley with two rows of weeping cherries would make a lovely, living memorial to Miss Margaret.

With only one letter requesting contributions, the group had the funds they needed within only two weeks, a real testament to the admiration everyone had for Miss Margaret. Contributions came from every corner of the community.

In March of 1995, 60 young weeping cherries were planted. With the help and dedication of many friends of the school, 60 young weeping cherries were planted in Miss Margaret's memory in 1995.

Every April, they bloom in her honor and for the pleasure of Foxcroft students, professors, parents and staff.

Miss Margaret, who lived the Foxcroft ideal she taught, would be delighted to know that this landmark Alley blooms on in her honor.

"She was an astounding teacher and a truly important figure in the community and for the girls she taught," said Lisa Patterson, a 1989 Foxcroft graduate.