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Symbol | Official Item

American Elm

Official State Tree of Massachusetts

Massachusetts designated the American elm (Ulmus americana) as the official state tree in 1941, commemorating the fact that General George Washington took command of the Continental  Army beneath an American elm tree on Cambridge Common in 1775. All State Trees

Wild Turkey

Official State Game Bird of Massachusetts

The wild turkey was designated the official state game bird of Massachusetts in 1991 (the state bird is black-capped chickadee, adopted in 1941). The wild turkey is also a state symbol of Alabama, Oklahoma, and South Carolina.  All State Birds

Rhodonite

Official State Gem of Massachusetts

Rhodonite was recognized by Massachusetts in 1979 as the official state gem or gem symbol. All State Gems

Rhodonite varies in hue from a light pink to a deep rose or reddish pink, and is considered the most beautiful gem material found in Massachusetts (rhodonite is associated with black manganese).