The Trees of North-Eastern America by Charles S. Newhall, first published in 1892, is a comprehensive guide to the native and naturalized trees of the northeastern United States. This work serves as both a practical field manual and a scholarly reference, aiming to provide readers with a detailed understanding of the region’s tree species. Newhall’s approach combines botanical accuracy with accessible descriptions, making the book suitable for both amateur naturalists and professional botanists.

The book is organized systematically, with each tree species presented in a consistent format. For each species, Newhall includes information on its common and scientific names, physical characteristics such as size, shape, and bark texture, as well as details about its leaves, flowers, and fruit. The descriptions also cover the tree’s habitat preferences, range, and flowering and fruiting periods. This thorough approach allows readers to identify trees accurately and understand their ecological roles within the forest community.

Newhall’s work is notable for its inclusion of both well-known and less common species, reflecting the diversity of the northeastern American flora. The book serves not only as a field guide but also as a historical document, offering insights into the botanical knowledge and classification systems of the late 19th century. While some of the taxonomic classifications may have evolved since its publication, the foundational observations and descriptions remain valuable for understanding the region’s tree species.

The Trees of North-Eastern America is a significant contribution to American botanical literature. Its blend of detailed botanical information and clear, descriptive language makes it a useful resource for those interested in the trees of the northeastern United States. Despite being over a century old, the book continues to be appreciated for its meticulous observations and its role in documenting the natural history of the region’s forests.