About Lockerly

Mission

To inspire an understanding and appreciation of horticulture, nature and heritage.

Vision

Dedicated to providing plant lovers of all ages a serene setting for observing and learning about horticulture, nature and heritage, Lockerly Arboretum aspires to become a nationally accredited arboretum while preserving and protecting our antebellum crown jewel, Rose Hill.

Proud Members Of:

Our Programs

Education

Serving approximately 5000 children and adults each year, Lockerly’s education programs are tailored for every age and embrace hands-on activities.  Programs for students are in compliance with the Georgia Performance Standards as well as requirements for Eagle Scout badges and Master Gardener certifications.  Lectures and workshops are conducted throughout the year for adults including participants from the Life Enrichment Center, a program for adults with intellectual disabilities living in and around Baldwin County. The Foundation also owns a beautiful 200 acre tract in Putnam County known as the Oliver N. Worley Outdoor Education Center.  It features locations to study water ecology, life sciences, ecology, and forestry.  Indoor classroom and lab space is also available there.

Horticulture

E.J. Grassmann envisioned a diverse collection of plants and trees in the Arboretum and our plantings are made with that vision in mind. Today, Lockerly boasts 50 acres of gardens, walking trails, and a pond. Our plantings feature flowering shrubs such as camellias and azaleas, and a variety of trees including oaks and magnolias as well as perennials and annuals. A 1 mile nature trail is home to many mature hardwoods, ferns and wildflowers, including a Tall Stewartia (Stewartia monadelpha), a small leaf Vibernum and a Cedar Elm, all Georgia State Champion trees.

Historic Preservation

Lockerly Arboretum’s beautiful Greek Revival Home, Rose Hill, was built by Judge Daniel Tucker in 1852, when Milledgeville was capital of Georgia. This magnificent treasure provides a window into 19th century life and serves as a museum, event venue and classroom facility. Rose Hill was placed in the National Register of Historic Places in April 2017.