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Bartram Trail

Bartram Trail Markers mark the routes traveled by renowned botanist, naturalist and artist William Bartram as described in his 1791 publication Bartram’s Travels. The Bartram Trail Conference organized in 1976 seeks to identify and mark his travels to promote interest in recreational trails and botanical gardens. The late Van Blanchard of Pensacola, District 1, designed the Bartram Markers which have been placed all over the Deep South to mark the routes that he traveled. There are some 70 markers, 25 of which are in Florida’s portion of the trail.

These markers designate the sites mentioned in the travels and create an awareness and appreciation for the noted artist and explorer. 

Clubs in Districts 1 are encouraged to place a marker in an appropriate site of their choice. The price is $1,200. Contact the FFGC Bartram Trail Chair for more information. Extensive information on the trail, membership, newsletters, and conferences can be found at www.bartramtrail.org.

Locations of Area Bartram Trail Markers

ESCAMBIA

  • In Bartram Park, on south side of E. Main St, south of Seville Square (sponsor Althea Garden Club) Inscription: “In 1775 William Bartram described Pensacola and the hospitality he received when even Gov. Chester urged him to be his houseguest.”
  • Bahia Mar Marina on Bayou Chico just west of Pensacola Yacht Club (formerly owned by Colonel Blanchard, Van’s husband)
  • Highway 98 beside Perdido Bay at Lillian Bridge (south side, FL side)(sponsor Althea Garden Club) (Refurbished in 2015)
  • Fort Pickens (sponsor Ivy Garden Club) Inscription: “In 1775 William Bartram described Pensacola’s natural harbor safe and large enough to shelter all of the Navies of Europe”
  • Alabama Welcome Station on I-10 westbound from Pensacola
  • At the entrance to the Oar House Restaurant, 1000 South Pace Boulevard (sponsor Garden Clubs of District I) Inscription: “Bartram wrote of the security and extent of intracoastal water ways from Virginia’s Chesapeake Bay to the Mississippi, in 1774”

SANTA ROSA

  • I-10 rest area on east side of Pensacola Bay (relocated to rest area east of Milton on westbound side by Panhandle Native Plant Club)

Another fun way to find them is to visit waymarking.com and search on Bartram Trail. Many markers have been posted that are located through the southeastern states.