The McGuffey Elms, planted by William Homes McGuffey were a landmark on the Ohio University campus for over 100 years. They were planted by the noted educator during his tenure as president of Ohio University, 1839- 1843. McGuffey planted the trees along the then boundary of the campus to beautify its then drab aspect. The elms faced his home near the present location of the old Baker University Center. Because townspeople pastured their cows on the College Green, McGuffey built a fence to protect the young trees.

Seven of the elms were removed during the fall of 1954, having fallen victim to Dutch elm disease. Salvageable sections were made into mementos such as plaques and gavels, and parts of the trees were made into rustic log benches that sat on the portico which adjoined the Frontier Room of the University Center. The elms were replaced with Oriental elms, which are resistant to disease, and with ash, pin oak and sycamore trees.

Information about the Class Gateway is courtesy of The Robert E. & Jean R. Mahn Center for Archives and Special Collections at Ohio University.