If
you had not heard of Edward Augustus Bowles at the start of last
month’s meeting you certainly knew about this extraordinary man by the
end of the evening. Bryan Hewitt spoke passionately about E.A Bowles, a
horticulturalist, plantsman, plants hunter and garden writer, who
created an important garden at Myddelton House, which was his life long
home.
Bryan
is a senior gardener at Myddelton House Gardens, who has been involved
with gardening for many years. Bryan explained how E.A Bowles was
involved with the RHS for over 50 years and was a life member, he served
on 15 committees, was a Council member and Vice-president. Despite the
loss of sight in his right eye, E.A Bowles was accomplished artist and
was the author of several books. E.A Bowles was especially know for his
interest in crocuses and bulbs, and gave his name to some 40 varieties
of plants.
Bryan
also told us about the history of Myddelton House Gardens and how the
restoration of the gardens was made possible with lottery funding
leading to the restored gardens opening in 2011. Bryan consolidated his
knowledge in a book called The Crocus King, which is available to buy.
Our thanks go to Bryan for a most interesting evening.
