Capitol Park, a 40 acre oasis surrounding the State Capitol in downtown Sacramento, provides a respite from the daily hustle and bustle of government and private business in the state’s capitol. Dawn and I occasionally stroll along the many paths leading through the beautifully landscaped grounds and marvel at the variety and abundance of trees and shrubs that thrive within the park. A multitude of bird species and squirrels call the park home and provide endless entertainment to park visitors both young and old.

Beautification of the park began in 1870, four years before the Capitol’s completion in 1874. The land was graded and augmented with river silt and soil, then planted with 800 trees, shrubs, and flowers. The landscaping included more than 200 varieties of rare plant life from nearly every continent and climate around the world, from sub-tropic to sub-arctic. Many of the non-native tree and shrub species planted over a century ago continue to thrive. In fact, due to Sacramento’s temperate climate and steady water supply, several of the park’s tree species are said to grow larger and better here than in their native habitats.

Over the years, both acreage and plantings have been added to the park which now spans 12 city blocks. Its landscaping includes hundreds of species of trees, shrubs and flowers from sequoias, redwoods, and magnolias to roses, camellias, and cacti. An average of 20,000 new plants and flowering bulbs are planted annually. Countless birds and squirrels occupy the trees, walkways and even benches. And more than a million people come to the park each year to visit its memorials and monuments, sit or stroll among the greenery and participate in a variety of activities.

On a recent visit to the park, we enjoyed watching the resident squirrels who have, after years of indulgence by park visitors, become somewhat insistent about receiving payment, in the form of peanuts, in exchange for posing for photographs. It’s like dealing with a union shop; there’s little room for negotiation. And so on this outing, Dawn and I came prepared.

They approach without fear, stand on their hind legs and say, “Okay, buddy, I see the camera; whatcha got for me?” And right on cue, we paid up. After all, we wanted a few photos once they’d devoured or hidden the peanuts. And like clockwork, the little guys kept their part of the bargain, posing atop fences, park benches and low hanging branches. It was quid pro quo; peanuts for pictures. They’re so cute, we sometimes forget they’re rodents!

After leaving the squirrels a generous tip, we strolled the park and took in the Viet Nam and War Memorials, numerous statues and the abundant flora, marveling at the beauty of it all. Then we returned to our regular routines, refreshed and rejuvenated, eagerly looking forward to our next park visit. We’ll bring peanuts.