Common Name: hackberry
Scientific Name: Celtis occidentalis
Category: Other
Comments: The Newport News "Charter Elm" grew on the grounds of McIntosh Elementary School, was brought down by Hurricane Isabel, and a new tree is now growing in its place. The school is located on the site of the Miles Cary Plantation, named for a prominent 17th-century Virginian and his wife, who were buried under the tree. It is depicted on the seal of the city of Newport News. It was under this tree that Warwick County court was held. While the school was being built, Dr. Billy Williams, Jr., the principal, had to literally sit on the gravesite to halt work. He successfully defended the site, and the resulting archeological dig revealed artifacts that have been preserved. Because of this discovery, the school was redesigned to be built closer to Richneck Road. Dr. Williams was hired by George J. McIntosh, for whom the school is named.
No picture has been submitted.
Nominator: Linda White
This tree is not on public or publicly accessible property. The owner's name, address, and the exact location of the tree are not displayed to protect the privacy of these individuals. If you are the owner and wish to make this information public, please let us know.
County/City: Newport News