Elm 🌳

Some nations had to make do with elm bark to cover the frame of their canoes. However, the Huron-Wendat did not use this type of bark as covering material. Because elm bark was sturdy and thick, canoes made from it were quite heavy and were harder to manœuvre. Moreover, they often took on water.

However, as the elm bark is solid, the Huron-Wendat used it to build baskets or carrying baskets as well as for the exterior covering of their longhouses!

Elm trees are very rare in certain parts of Québec. However, they are found throughout the southern part of the province. Large elms are quite uncommon because this type of tree is subject to a fungal infection known as “Dutch” elm disease. This disease, which came here from Europe in the 20th century, has destroyed an enormous number of elms.