Blogs and Essays
Finding Sunbird Species in Wallacea
Using modern genetic, acoustic, and statistical techniques, these discoveries add to our understanding of how life evolved in the Wallacea region, and reinforce some classic ideas from Wallace’s work.
21st November 2022
The Engraved Portraits Collection
A little look at our Engraved Portraits collection: some history and some fun.
1st November 2022
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
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
