2Trcrs of Krabing, fflaes. Xo. 1. 
White Elm. 
American Elm. 
Uirnus Americana , L. 
This tree is situated on the east side of West St., between King and Summer Sts., 
in the dooryard of the place now owned by Mr. John Watson. 
It is supposed that Mr. Thomas Bancroft (b. 1673, d. 1731) was the first to build on 
this site. It is not known whether the tree was standing at the time or not, but its loca¬ 
tion favors the assumption that it was set out. Considering its great size, it does not 
seem unreasonable to assume that it was planted as far back as 1700, and its perfect vigor 
is against placing it much earlier. Probably Thomas Bancroft planted it soon after 
building. Mr. John Hart Bancroft, who was horn at this place in 1811, and is the oldest 
member of the family now living, states that the tree has seemed to be its present size 
ever since he can remember (over 70 years). 
The measurements in August, 1887, were as follows: — 
Circumference. 
6 in. from ground, 26 ft. 
5 ft. “ “ 14 ft. 8 in. 
Height. 
66 ft. 
Spread . 
90 ft. 
The circumference at five feet gives the smallest measurement of the trunk, which 
grows larger towards the branches above and the roots below. 
This is one of the largest trees in town, and adds much to the value and attractiveness 
of its surroundings. The branches extending towards the east almost meet those of 
another elm planted about one hundred years ago by Joseph Bancroft (b. 1735^ d. 1825) 
who was a grandson of Thomas Bancroft. The western branches extend over the high¬ 
way towards the barn, which stands on the opposite side of the road, and succeed in 
establishing the relationship between the house and the barn to such an extent that one 
almost feels like an intruder when passing on the highway. 
Our photograph, taken from a point northwest of the tree, shows its appearance 
in September, 1S87. Three of the‘heavy mass of branches that spring from the main 
trunk are visible. Mr. John Watson will be noticed standing at the left of the trunk, 
while above the roof of the building, on the extreme left, may be seen the limbs of the 
Joseph Bancroft Elm. 
The white elm has small, reddish blossoms, which appear in numerous clusters in 
April or May. They lose no time in going to seed, and before the leaves are fairly out 
the abundant crop of flat seeds is locating along walls and fences preparatory to making 
an immediate start. The roots attain unusual length, being, probably, the longest of 
of any our native trees. The wood is heavy, hard, tough, and not easily split. It is 
used for wheel stock, cooperage, saddle trees, flooring, and boat- and ship-building, for 
which latter purpose large quantities are exported to Great Britain. The bark was 
formerly used for chair seats, and can be made into quite strong cord. 
The white elm is a native tree, from Newfoundland to Florida, and west to Dakota 
and Texas. It thrives nicely in our locality, when not infested with canker worms, and 
has been deservedly planted in New England more than any other native tree. As a 
street tree it stands unequalled. 
