Memoir and Correspondence of the Late Sir James Edward Smith, M.D.

A memoir, published in 1832 by his wife, of Sir James Edward Smith (1759–1828), founder of the Linnean Society.

James Edward Smith (Author), Pleasance Smith (Edited by)

9781108037075, Cambridge University Press

Paperback / softback, published 24 November 2011

636 pages, 1 b/w illus.
21.5 x 14.5 x 4 cm, 0.81 kg

Originally published in 1832, this two-volume account of the life of Sir James Edward Smith (1759–1828) was posthumously compiled by his wife, Pleasance (1773–1877). Smith trained originally as a doctor, but his independent wealth enabled him to pursue botany. Hugely influenced by the work of Linnaeus, he benefited greatly from the purchase of the latter's library and herbarium in 1783, upon the advice of his friend, Sir Joseph Banks. He was highly regarded throughout Europe as a botanist, and in 1788 founded the Linnean Society. He published various botanical works, of which the most important was The English Flora (1824–8), and assisted in the publication of many more. His wife recounts his character as well as his achievements, using both narrative and 'various familiar and domestic letters' to do so. Volume 1 includes letters from Banks and Samuel Goodenough, bishop of Carlisle and Smith's close botanical friend.

Preface
1. Introductory notice
2. Sir J. E. Smith leaves Edinburgh
3. Sir J. E. Smith begins his travels
4. Foundation of the Linnaean Society
5. Enumeration of the works of Sir J. E. Smith
6. The Bishop of Carlisle endeavours to persuade Sir James not to remove from London.

Subject Areas: Botany & plant sciences [PST]