On Saturday, March 14, the U-M Herbarium welcomed guests to the Research Museums Center for a special book launch and lecture exploring the early history of botanical science in Michigan. The event celebrated a newly released special issue of The Great Lakes Botanist and brought together community members, researchers, and plant enthusiasts for an afternoon of science and history.

Featured speaker Dr. Anton Reznicek shared the fascinating story behind Michigan’s first documented flora, highlighting the scientists, explorers, and specimen collectors who helped shape early botanical knowledge of the region. His talk, “Science, Statehood, and Sketchy Specimen Labels,” offered an engaging look at how early plant records were created, interpreted, and sometimes debated, revealing the challenges and surprises hidden within herbarium collections, which date back to the state’s earliest years.

“Specimens provide both scientific and historical documentation,” shared Reznicek. “They formed the foundation on which all else was built. This involved more than just the core concept of verification of identifications, but also the dates and locations on the specimens were used as historical information for building itineraries.”

Attendees had the opportunity to explore the U-M Herbarium through optional guided tours before and after the lecture. The event also featured a special bundled book offer, including Botanical Beachcombers and Explorers: Pioneers of the 19th Century in the Upper Great Lakes, allowing guests to dive deeper into the region’s botanical history.

The afternoon highlighted the U-M Herbarium’s role in preserving plant records and connecting the public with the stories and the people behind the specimens. It was a unique and informative gathering celebrating both Michigan’s botanical heritage and the ongoing and critical work of the U-M Herbarium.