Aptly named, the velvety twigs and limbs do resemble a buck's antlers before the rut. Folks often are wary of this tree since there exists a single poisonous species of sumac. This poison sumac is an inhabitant solely of bogs and acidic wetlands. It is rare in Ohio and unlikely to be encountered. In contrast with the red berries of the non-poisonous species, it has white berries reminiscent of poison ivy.
The bark and leaves of the sumac are rich in tannic acid which was historically used in the tanning or curing of leather. An old familar name for the small tree was "shoemake," referring to its popular usage among shoemakers.
The Ohio Indian used the leaves of sumac as a component of kinnikinik -- their commonly smoked tobacco. The pioneers used the berries for a tea to relieve throat irritations (probably induced by tobacco).
A popular use today is in the making of "Indian pink lemonade." The fine haris covering the red berries are replete with malic acid usage among which is also found in grapes.