Blogs and Essays
An Ethnobotanist's Journey Through the Linnean Society's Archives
Jonn Gale introduces their collaborative PhD project on researching human-plant relationships through specimens and manuscripts originating in the Caribbean, how botanical histories shape scientific ideas, and using the Society's collections.
26th October 2022
Finding the Original Collectors of Linnaeus' Fishes
In 1771, a black man braved a storm to collect a fish that was sent to Linnaeus and is studied even today. Head of Collections Dr Isabelle Charmantier uncovers the invaluable role of unrecognised black collectors employed by Alexander Garden.
9th October 2022
Treasure of the Month: Lois Darling’s Beagle
Archivist Alex Milne examines the history of HMS Beagle through the enthusiasm and diligence of artist, Lois MacIntyre Darling
1st October 2022
A Family Feud: George Bentham's life and letters
English botanist George Bentham, past President of the Linnean Society, enjoyed a close, bittersweet relationship with his uncle, philosopher and social reformer, Jeremy Bentham, who eventually convinced George to give up the study of law for botany.
22nd September 2022
JA Leach: A Nature Influencer of his Time
JA Leach wrote “An Australian Bird Book”, the first field guide to that continent's avifauna in 1911. But Leach’s bird-guide went far beyond identification. It was a call for deeper love for the natural world.
2nd September 2022
Thomas Baines and the Great Tree Aloe
During research into the provenance of Charles Darwin’s vasculum (used on the voyage of the HMS Beagle), Glenn Benson, our Honorary Curator of Artefacts, came across this sketch of ‘The Great Tree Aloe of Damara Land’ by Thomas Baines (1820–1875).
31st August 2022