Pioneers

The Cactaceae Vol III, plate XVII by Mary Eaton

Mary Emily Eaton (1873-1961) was one of the great botanical illustrators. Her mastery of light and shadow gave a wonderful depth to her detailed illustrations of cactus and other species. 

Dr. John K. Small

In 1925 Dr. John K. Small, botanist, plant explorer and curator of The New York Botanical Garden, became acquainted with the vast colonies of native irises in south Louisiana. He was the first botanist to study the species and natural hybrids of Louisiana iris in depth. This occurred quite by accident if we are to believe the accounts.