The World as Garden: The Life and Writings of David Fairchild

The World as Garden is an anthology of the writings of David Fairchild, one of the most important figures in American agriculture and science in the first half of the 20th century, and influential in the early history of Miami. Fairchild was a plant explorer, and established and directed the Office of Foreign Seed and Plant Introduction of the USDA, which helped transform crop diversity, quality and yields, and to dramatically expand American agriculture. These writings, from books, articles, unpublished letters and manuscripts, are arranged to describe the chronology of events in his life, his love for plants and nature, and affection for family and friends. Strategically placed essays and bridging paragraphs help to integrate Fairchild’s writings into the story of his life. The book is also illustrated with 100 black and white photographs, many published for the first time, and it ends with a comprehensive index.