Historic rubber tree being removed in Hamilton

Stefano Ausenda

Created: Feb 13, 2024 07:52 AM (Updated: Feb 13, 2024 07:52 AM)

The City excavate the remains of the rubber tree situated outside the Bermuda National Library. Pictured is Fred Smith, from the Corporation of Hamilton (Photograph by Akil Simmons)

The remains of an almost 200-year-old Indian rubber tree are being removed in Hamilton this week.

Corporation of Hamilton workers are excavating what is left of the tree near the junction of Queen Street and Reid Street. The process will take about a week.

A branch from the tree, which was planted by former postmaster-general William Bennett Perot in 1847, collapsed on to the roof of a nearby preschool in May.

The City will conduct excavation on the remains of the rubber tree situated outside the Bermuda National Library. Pictured is Fred Smith, from the Corporation of Hamilton (Photograph by Akil Simmons)

Tree surgeons from Brown & Co found significant decay and rot inside the tree and suggested it be cut down to keep residents in the city safe.

Andrew Bermingham, from the Bermuda Historical Society, called this decision “very, very unfortunate” given the tree’s long history, but said it “had to be removed”.

Related Topics: City of Hamilton History

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Published February 13, 2024 at 7:52 am (Updated February 13, 2024 at 7:52 am)

Historic rubber tree being removed in Hamilton

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Historic rubber tree being removed in Hamilton

Historic rubber tree being removed in Hamilton