The first great naturalists
in colonial America were John Bartram (1699-1777) and his son William
Bartram (1739-1823). Together and separately they traveled throughout
the eastern parts of America documenting native plants with drawings
and written descriptions.
In his book Travels (1791)
William Bartram describes crossing the Oconee River and traveling across
what is now the southern part of Baldwin County, Georgia. In these travels
he crossed the land of Baldwin State Forest. In deciding what to name
the educational component of the Baldwin State Forest it was decided
by the Georgia Forestry Commission to honor the works and history of
these pioneer naturalists with hopes of continuing their spirit of exploration,
learning, and sharing with others.