The Last Fern: William Williams’ Fatal Passion for Botany

On This Day
This botanical history post was featured on The Daily Gardener podcast:

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June 27, 1861

On this day, dear fellow plant enthusiasts, we reflect on a somber tale from the annals of botanical history.

The Courier and Argus of Dundee, Scotland, reported the untimely demise of a dedicated botanical guide: William Williams.

Picture, if you will, the misty Scottish highlands, where our story unfolds. The newspaper account paints a vivid picture of Williams' final expedition:

While his party rode slowly forward on ponies, Williams indulged in his favorite science; collecting plants.

When they arrived at the summit he left them again in order to gather some ferns.

The party waited for him 90 minutes and then finally descended.

Scouts were sent out and his body was found lying 300 yards beneath the precipice from where he fallen.

Oh, the passion that drove Williams to separate from his group!

One can almost see him, eyes alight with excitement, carefully picking his way along treacherous slopes in pursuit of a rare fern specimen.

How many of us, dear readers, have felt that same irresistible pull towards an elusive bloom or an uncommon leaf?

Yet, in a twist that speaks to the complexities of conservation, Williams had begun to grapple with a profound realization before his tragic end.

By guiding collectors to rare plants, he feared he might be inadvertently contributing to their extinction.

What a quandary for a man so devoted to the botanical world!

Today, Williams' tombstone stands as a testament to his lifelong dedication:

William Williams, upwards of 25 years botanical guide at the Royal Victoria Hotel.

Killed by a fall while pursuing his favorite vocation.

As we tend our gardens and explore nature trails today, let us pause to consider William Williams' legacy.

His story serves as both an inspiration and a cautionary tale.

It reminds us of the profound joy that comes from immersing oneself in the natural world, while also highlighting the delicate balance between appreciation and preservation.

Perhaps, in honor of Williams, we might dedicate ourselves anew to the protection of rare species in our own locales.

Could we not find ways to celebrate and study our botanical treasures without endangering them?

Might we cultivate rare native plants in our gardens, creating sanctuaries for species at risk?

As we go about our horticultural pursuits, let us carry with us the spirit of William Williams - his passion, his dedication, and his growing awareness of our impact on the natural world.

May we always tread lightly in nature's realm, even as we revel in its wonders.

And do take care on those rocky slopes, my friends. The perfect specimen is never worth risking one's neck!

The Botanists and Mountain Guides of Snowdonia by Dewi Jones
William Williams' tombstone
William Williams' tombstone

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