Baltzell was born in Frankfort, Kentucky and studied law with Kentucky Attorney General Solomon P. Sharp, attaining his license at age 20. Following his friend Florida Governor William Pope Duval, Baltzell moved to Florida in 1825.
A young Baltzell was educated in law by Kentucky's top lawyer, Solomon P. Sharp, and earned his license at just 20 years old. He then followed the lead of a close friend, Florida Governor William Pope Duval, and made the move to Florida in 1825.