The Naturalist Center is one of the most intriguing places at The Ford Plantation. Here you’ll find the office of the staff naturalist, located in a building commonly referred to as the Oyster House, which was originally Henry Ford’s cabin—what many today would call his man cave. Above the front door hangs a cryptic sign that reads AIG-ROEG. It’s said the sign was created by Ford as an inside joke, a tongue-in-cheek memorial to repeated questions from friends who asked him why he was moving to “backward Georgia.” Almost 100 years later, the sign remains as a quiet testament to Henry Ford’s legacy.

Inside the Oyster House, you’ll discover a collection of fossils, animal skulls, snakes, turtles, and various other reptiles which our naturalist uses for kids’ camps and other educational demonstrations. In addition to the Oyster House, the Naturalist Center features an observation deck overlooking the marsh, turtle pens, and an owl barn for rehabilitating injured birds of prey.

Ask any member at Ford and they will tell you that one of the main reasons they chose The Ford Plantation is the opportunity to enjoy its natural beauty and embrace Lowcountry living. As an experienced wildlife biologist, The Ford Plantation staff naturalist can help both members and visitors understand the flora and fauna around them, giving them the tools they need to help preserve the natural splendor across the property for generations to come! Some ways in which we promote living in harmony with nature include:

At The Ford Plantation, our Naturalist program is designed to create deeper connections between our members and the natural environment through memorable experiences for all ages. Listed below are just some of the wonderful opportunities for members and their guests. Please call our naturalist for more information and to schedule activities.