1974 - The living tree transplanted on the ellipse in 1973 continued to grow and thrive under the supervision and care of National Park Service horticulturists.

Visitors could now view the tree year around as it grew on the ellipse, a living symbol of the Pageant and all it represents.

The lighting for 1974 was carefully selected to make the most impressive possible visual display while consuming a minimum of energy an not endangering the health of the tree.

2,000 gold "Cool Brite" lamps, which consume only two-thirds the wattage of conventional outdoor decorative lamps and maintain a cool temperature that will not harm the tree, were mixed with 450 twinkle lights to give the tree sparkle.

The 8 floodlights used in 1973 were again around the base of the tree.

The General Electric Co. has served as a lighting consultant and has provided the lights for the tree each year since 1963.

(President Ford)

[Scanned from original photographic slide.]