Metal fence proposed to protect 400-year-old Buttonball Tree in Sunderland A plaque recognizes the Buttonball Tree on North Main Street (Route 47) in Sunderland as having been alive when the United States Constitution was signed. STAFF PHOTO/PAUL FRANZ The existing sidewalk past the Buttonball Tree on North Main Street (Route 47) in Sunderland. STAFF PHOTO/PAUL FRANZ The historic Buttonball Tree on North Main Street in Sunderland. The Buttonball Tree on North Main Street (Route 47) in Sunderland, an American sycamore, dwarfs other full-grown trees around it. STAFF PHOTO/PAUL FRANZ Related stories citizens concerned about future of Sunderland’s Buttonball Tree