An Inaugural Discourse (Classic Reprint)

David Hosack

ISBN 10: 0366355376 / ISBN 13: 9780366355372

Published by Forgotten Books, 2018

About this Item

Print on Demand. This book, an 1824 discourse delivered before the New York Horticultural Society, offers a detailed record of early 19th century horticultural practices in the United States. It captures a historical moment as interest in horticulture was growing in the country, and documents the ideas and techniques used at that time. The author, a medical doctor and president of the society, utilizes his knowledge to explore horticulture from a scientific and practical perspective. He advocates for advancements in the field, including the establishment of a dedicated horticultural garden, the development of new fruit and vegetable varieties, and the adoption of scientific methods in plant cultivation. The author's passion for horticulture is evident throughout the discourse, as he enthusiastically discusses the potential of the field to enhance the quality of life and advance the nation. He provides a glimpse into the horticultural practices of his time, offering valuable insights into the history of this important discipline. This book is a reproduction of an important historical work, digitally reconstructed using state-of-the-art technology to preserve the original format. In rare cases, an imperfection in the original, such as a blemish or missing page, may be replicated in the book.

Seller Inventory # 9780366355372_0

Bibliographic Details

• Title: An Inaugural Discourse (Classic Reprint)
• Publisher: Forgotten Books
• Publication Date: 2018
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 0366355376
• ISBN 13: 9780366355372
• Binding: Paperback
• Condition: New
• Book Type: print-on-demand item
• Seller catalogs:
  • Minutes and Reports

About this title

Synopsis

Explore the birth of American horticulture and the rise of landscape science in an 1824 inaugural discourse. This edition presents David Hosack’s landmark essay before the New-York Horticultural Society, outlining the aims of horticulture, the growth of garden-based knowledge, and practical paths for education and national resilience through native fruits, vine culture, and garden design. Read how early 19th-century thinkers linked beauty, utility, and moral improvement to the garden, and how American institutions shaped a homegrown gardening tradition.

Structured as a wide-ranging argument and guide, the discourse traces the history of horticulture, highlights key European and American influences, and surveys the formation of influential societies. It argues for practical education—apprenticeships, drawing instruction, and local cultivation—so Americans can train their own gardeners and reduce reliance on foreign expertise. It also emphasizes the role of the garden in national welfare, temperance, and cultural enrichment.

• Understand the scope of horticulture: culinary plants, ornamentals, and landscape design.


• Learn about the rise of major horticultural societies and their publications.


• See early ideas on education, apprenticeships, and local training for gardeners.


• Explore discussions on cultivating native fruits and producing wine at home.

Ideal for readers of early American science, garden history, and the social role of horticulture.