The flora and natural history of George Washington Carver National Monument

Palmer, Ernest

This report is the National Park Service, Midwest Region Research/Resources Management Report that includes portions of Ernest J. Palmer's original 1964 manuscript on the flora and natural history of George Washington Carver National Monument from Carver's childhood up to the time of report. The report is an overview of the natural history of the park and includes the results of flora studies, conducted over several seasons. The preface discusses Mr. Palmer's interest in the park as well as references Mr. Palmer's original work. This report includes a brief history of the park's creation and Carver's contributions of economic and scientific value. It also includes a summary of Carver's life spanning from his birth, through his studies and travels, to his work at Tuskegee Normal and Industrial Institute. A summary of the physical characteristics of the area is given which includes acreage, topography, geology, erosion effects, and soil origins as well as the waterways, flora, woody plants, wild animal life, birds, reptiles, terrapins, fish, and insects found on the property. A list of flora species identified is included.