Lunchtime Talk: The History of Glasshouses

‘A fine crop of peaches’: Thomas Clark’s glasshouse manufactory in early-nineteenth century Birmingham.

Cultivating tender plants has challenged gardeners in Britain since the sixteenth century when orange trees were sheltered beneath wood and canvas. By the early-nineteenth century Birmingham firms such as Thomas Clark’s were manufacturing glittering glazed and metal-framed structures that changed the face of gardening.

In this lunchtime talk, academic Elaine Mitchell brings to light Birmingham’s place as a centre for the manufacture of glasshouses.

Recommended for ages 16+. This talk will take place in the Winterbourne Centre for Horticulture.

All courses, workshops and events at Winterbourne House & Garden are non-refundable unless cancelled by Winterbourne.