Welcome to the André Michaux Historical Marker in Highlands, North Carolina, a site that commemorates the adventurous journey of André Michaux, an 18th-century French botanist and explorer. In the late 1700s, the uncharted territories of America were ripe for exploration, and Michaux played a pivotal role in unveiling the botanical secrets of these lands. Appointed by King Louis XVI of France, Michaux was tasked with discovering plants that could be beneficial for French industries, including shipbuilding.
Michaux arrived in the United States in 1785 and established botanical gardens in New Jersey and South Carolina. His expedition into the Appalachian wilderness in June 1787 was one of his most daring endeavors. Accompanied by Cherokee guides, Michaux navigated the dense, untamed forests of the Highlands Plateau, facing perilous conditions such as torrential rivers, thorny thickets, and the ever-present danger of wildlife.
On June 15, 1787, Michaux camped near what is now the town of Highlands. Despite the hardships, his journey led to the discovery of the plant Shortia galacifolia, a species so rare that it remained unseen by other botanists for almost a century. Michaux’s explorations across North America contributed significantly to the botanical knowledge of the time, with his works ‘The Oaks of North America’ and ‘The Flora of North America’ remaining valuable references well into the 19th century.
The André Michaux Historical Marker stands as a tribute to his relentless spirit and enduring contributions to the field of botany. As you stand here, picture Michaux and his small party traversing the rugged terrain, their determination etched into every step, forever changing the scientific understanding of the American wilderness.
