MHS members’ event

Our speaker tonight, Sophie Leathart, came to give us a fascinating talk last year about Constance Spry. This evening she will tell us about the history and folklore of Kentish flowers, plants and trees and how they related to healing.  Based on species of flowers, plants and trees that we can still find in the Kent countryside and in our gardens, the talk will be illustrated with references to history, literature and delightful sixteenth century portraiture with flowers.

The English botanist John Gerard was the first to publish a 1,500 page illustrated book of flowers and herbs in 1597. He had a large herb garden in London.  Prior to this, remedies were passed on orally along with the folklore, usually by women, and were often associated with witchcraft. It promises to be another fascinating  evening.