LeConte-Woodmanston Botanical Gardens
Exciting new developments are taking place at the LeConte-Woodmanston Plantation, a former inland swamp rice plantation and former home of Dr. Louis LeConte. Dr. LeConte was a world-renowned scientist and botanist who passed his scientific legacy on to his sons, John and Joseph. John LeConte, the first president of the University of California at Berkeley, also received his M.D. from the New York College of Physicians and Surgeons in 1842. Additionally, he served as professor of physics and chemistry at the University of Georgia from 1846 – 1855. Joseph LeConte also received a degree from the New York College of Physicians and Surgeons and also attended Harvard University and studied natural history. Joseph LeConte was best known for his work as a co-founder of the Sierra Club. Dr. Louis LeConte's world-famous 18th Century botanical gardens are being restored to their former glory and will include a combination of landscaped structured and free-flowing gardens that include several of the varieties of fauna and flora discovered and cultivated by Louis LeConte such as the camellia and pear. Waterscape and hardscape areas will showcase a serenity pond, the black water swamp and rice dyke areas. This expansion will feature a multi-purpose chapel as well as a memorial brick pathway meandering throughout the gardens. The “Memorial Walk” will serve as a tribute to the enslaved people of 18th and 19th century America. Also, plans are in the works to establish a regional science center which builds upon the LeConte’s scientific legacy. The center will feature several hands on scientific exhibits and demonstrations and a variety of workshops for adults and children alike.
Hours: Tues - Sat: 10am - 4pm
Address: 4918 Barrington Ferry Road - Riceboro, GA
Phone: (912) 884-6500