The great elm, Lancaster, Massachusetts

During the 18th and 19th centuries, Lancaster was famous for its huge elm trees. Considered the largest in New England, the Great Elm, in 1888, had a circumference of 23 feet at 5 feet above the ground. The height was 95 feet and the branch spread was 114 feet. Eight people with arms outstretched could reach around it. The tree was located on Lover's Lane near the Nashua River in the Five Corners area of town. Unfortunately, during a "cyclonic outburst of the elements," the tree was blown down on July 20, 1907. The Massachusetts Forestry Association, founded in 1898, chose this tree for their seal. It is also used in the logo of the Lancaster Historical Society.
Courtesy of Lancaster Historical Society