The Early Life of Alexander McKenzie: The 19th Century Horticulturist and Landscape Designer (Online)

Speaker: Lisa White - BA (Hons) Garden Design, Master’s in Garden and Landscape History.

Alexander McKenzie’s first knowledge of horticulture, nature and forestry came from his love of the woods and vales in Nairn, Scotland where he was born. His love of nature never left him, and at the time of his death, he was still working closely with nature as the Superintendent of Epping Forest. McKenzie’s early career started at Learney Estate in Scotland, before commencing his more formal studies under his fellow Scot, Robert Marnock, at the Royal Botanical Gardens in Regents Park, London. As he established himself in a rich and varied career, McKenzie was both the owner of a garden nursery in Brighton and an entrant in the competition to design a new landscaped park for the site of the Alexandra Palace.

Lisa White has worked as an Accountant for most of her life. After studying horticulture on a part-time basis (RHS Level 2 and 3 Diplomas), she then embarked on a change of career. Following her completion of a full-time BA (Hons) degree in Garden Design, she now holds a Master’s Degree in Garden and Landscape History and is currently continuing her research of Alexander McKenzie for her PhD with the University of Sheffield.

Photo: Alexander McKenzie from Carte de visite Photographic Collection at the RHS Lindley Library - RHS Lindley Collections.