Journey Through the Natural Sciences in Hamilton Library’s Rare Book Collection

On April 24, 2019, UH Manoa Hamilton Library held a presentation entitled, “Journey Through the Natural Sciences in Hamilton Library’s Rare Book Collection”.
 
Attendees were able to look through several rare books featuring beautifully illustrated plates of orchids, birds and other animals.
 
One of the presenters, Sheron Harwood, WOS President, captivated the audience with her knowledge of orchid history, diversity and culture.
 
The books from this rare collection dated from as early as 1587!
 
Of particular interest was a large, bound volume published from 1837-1843, The Orchidaceae of Mexico & Guatamala.
 
You can see from the picture of the Cattleya Skinneri with Sheron’s hand in it, just how immense this book was.
 
Other pictures are a Cycnoches Egertonianum, unusual in that it has male and female flowers and a Stanhopea Martiana, unique because the flower spikes grow down from the bottom.
 
The detail and accuracy of these hand-drawn prints were amazing, right down to bug bites on the stems.
 
~ Dawn Bonak

Presenter, Sheron Harwood, President , Windward Orchid Society

The Orchidaceae of Mexico & Guatamala 1837 - 1843

Cattleya Skinneri & Sheron's Hand

Cycnoches Egertonianum