Although resembling the elms (Ulmusspp.) in general appearance, the hackberry is diverse in form and smallerin size. Thesetraits are favourable for ornamental plant. ing. Fruit areconsumed intensively by birds and for this reason, the tree retains thenick-name "bird cherry". Commercially the wood has little value howeverthe bark when separated into its component fibers can yield thread suitablefor use in rope and matting.

As you cross over the road to the nexttree, take note of the two sugar maples (Acer saccharum) to yourleft. The road you are now crossing is called Founder's Avenue. On 27 and28 April 1881, twenty-seven sugar maples were planted to honour the foundersof Queen's University and each sapling was planted by a relation or friendof each founder. Sir John A. MacDonald, although no longer Prime Minister,was believed to have taken part in this ceremony, since he played a majorrole in the establishment of Queen's College.