315 
Southern Botanists.* 
By F. LAMsSon-SCRIBNER, 
Ladies and Gentlemen: At this season (March 26th) there may 
be found in our rich woodlands, brightening the deep shades with 
its pure white flowers, a little plant known to botanists the world 
over as Jeffersonia. 
A more delicate tribute cannot be paid a worker in the science 
of botany than to name for him some new or undescribed plant. 
Only those who by their direct labors have increased our knowl- 
edge of the vegetable kingdom, or who have in some way mate- 
tially aided in the advancement of the science, have been thus» 
honored. 
It is the purpose of this lecture to pass in review some of 
those who have been thus distinguished in the annals of Amer- 
ican botany, or who have thus become identified with the plants 
of the Southern States. The number is far too great for all to be 
included in a popular lecture, nor can I claim your time to say all 
that I would like to say of those even who are ranked most 
prominent. 
Jeffersonia diphylla commemorates one whose name and fame 
are so well known to all that I scarcely need more than mention 
him. Although Jefferson was not a botanist, his recognition of 
the science and the successsul encouragement which he gave to 
its prosecution will ever be remembered by botanists in the plant 
Which bears his name. In the development of our nation and 
national politics this name will ever stand among the first and 
foremost, and in the development of natural history in America it 
holds a no less prominent position. “It is probable,” says G. 
Brown Goode, “that no two men have done so much for science 
in this country as Jefferson and Agassiz; not so much by their 
direct contributions to knowledge as by the immense weight they 
Save to scientific interests by their advocacy.”+ 
To Jefferson’s interest and influence was due the organization 
of the first government exploring expedition, that of Lewis and 
* A lecture delivered at the University of Tennessee, March 26, 1889. : 
+“The Beginnings of Natural History in America.” Liberal use has been made 
Of this address by Prof. Goode in the preparation of this lecture. pe) FG en 
* i 
