James G. Eddy's deep concern for the conservation and improvement of forests led him to establish the Eddy Tree Breeding Station on this site in 1925. Through his own effort and funds, he created the oldest forest genetics research institution in the Western Hemisphere. Its name was changed to the Institute of Forest Genetics in 1932, and in 1935 it was deeded to the people of the United States. A businessman, scientist, conservationist, and true pioneer, his foresight and generous effort advanced the science of forest genetics many years and helped conserve the future supply of forest products.