9/5/2009:
In 1883, the capitol of Dakota Territory was moved from Yankton to Bismarck, and on this date, many prominent citizens, including ex-president Ulysses S. Grant, came to see the laying of the new building's cornerstone.
This ceremony was the big event, but Bismarck residents also readied the city and their homes. In one yard, a tree brimming with apples was so evident of this hard work, that the men hosting Grant made it a point to show it to him.
You see, the woman living there wanted to beautify her yard for the incoming guests, so she bought three bushels of apples at a store and tied her purchases to the young tree's branches.
How do you like them apples? ...Grant liked them very much.
Dakota Datebook written by Sarah Walker
Sources:
Bismarck Tribune-Dakota Territorial Centennial p. 27