Peace Rose “PEACE” … The history of a great rose The history of “PEACE” is as monumental as the rose itself. Prior to World War II, the Francis Meilland family was an established hybridizer of roses in France. As France was being occupied, Mr. Meilland was still testing rose number 3-35-40, (known today as “PEACE”). When the Nazis invaded France, he sent a one-pound package of budwood to the United States, Germany, and Italy. The Italian name for the rose became “Gioia” (“Joy”); the German name became “Gloria Dei” (“God’s Glory”). Robert Pyle, an American friend of Francis Meilland began testing 3-35-40 throughout this country in all types of soil and under all types of weather conditions. The rose was destined for greatness. The reports were outstanding. The American Rose Society decided to pay tribute to this exceptional rose by organizing a “Name Giving Ceremony.” The date was set months in advance. It was Robert Pyle’s desire “…that this greatest new rose of our time should be named for the world’s greatest desire…‘PEACE’.” On the pre-determined date, April 29, 1945, many rosarians gathered at the Pacific Rose Society’s exhibition in Pasadena, California where two white doves were released into the beautiful California sky. “PEACE” was named, just as Berlin fell! The All-American Rose Selection Award is given to the best all-around rose in the United States. When “PEACE” received this award, the war with Japan came to an end. Then, another memorable day came as the American Rose Society gave “PEACE” its supreme award: “The Gold Medal” the same day the peace treaty was signed with Japan. “PEACE” was the first rose ever to be so honored. This wonderful piece of rose history by Antonia Ridge’s, from “For Love of a Rose,” was found and re-printed by Tom Taffel, while he was editor of the San Francisco Rose Society.