RHS Chelsea Show, 1912

[tim]

I am in the process of putting together a presentation on antique complexes for the Paph Guild Meeting in Santa Barbara in January and ran across this image while researching Sir George Holford and his grower H.G. Alexander. Their contributions to orchids are legion, including, among many others, Slc. Falcon 'Westonbirt', Cym. Alexanderi 'Westonbirt', Lc. Lustre 'Westonbirt', and Hellas 'Westonbirt'. This image is of their award-winning display at the 1912 Chelsea Flower Show, spanning some 1100 square meters. Included in the photo, from left to right, are the judges of the event: William Lee (after whom Paph. Leeanum is named), Count Hemptienne (after whom one of the best clones of Cym. lowianum is named), M. Hye de Crum (a major early breeder of Miltoniopsis and intergenerics) two famous early orchid personnages, Mr. Cypher and Mr. O'Brian, and an unnamed gentleman. Such a stunning display...

 

[Ozpaph]

that would have been a sight to behold.
Thanks for sharing

 

[wjs2nd]

Very cool, thanks for sharing. Looks like a fun time.

 

[The Orchid Boy]

Wow! That would have been beautiful to see in person. I wonder how much all the plants and materials cost/were worth...

 

[NYEric]

Crazy! Thanks for sharing.

 

[billc]

I always enjoy your little history lessons, thanks!

Bill

 

[Susie11]

Many thanks.

 

[monocotman]

And the show is still going strong and is huge. A week long and we get to see 2-3 hours coverage per day on national TV. If you ever get to London in May -try to get along,
David

 

[wjs2nd]

Wow, that is cool. Sounds like a lot of fun.

 

[SlipperFan]

Interesting. Thanks for sharing.

 

[slipperscout]

Tim
You always do such a great job in renewing our interest in the evolution of complex breeding.
Thanks for sharing your gift!