Showing 2 results

Personal papers of Allan Victor Batley (1887-1970), relating to his career as a horticulturalist, with particular references to his time as the superintendent of the Parks and Cemeteries Department of the Borough of Dagenham, including letters of reference, written by his previous employers at Broke Hall Gardens, Ipswich, the Gardens at Leyswood, Groombridge, Waddesdon Manor Gardens, Aylesbury and Ashorne Hill Gardens, Leamington, as well as further correspondence, concerning his examination with the Royal Horticultural Society and his involvement with the Beacontree Heath Allotment Holders Association (30 March 1907-19 December 1934), together with photographs, showing him and family members, his private garden and the parks that he tended, such as Valence Park, Dagenham. Also accompanied by newspaper cuttings and printed certificates, awarded to him for participating in competitions involving vegetables and floral displays at the Dagenham Town Show (August 1950 and September 1951). Also accompanied by his birth, marriage and death certificates and a communion book.

The archive consists of the extensive correspondence with the University of London and other bodies, conducted by Margaret Judith Smieton's mother between 1919-1922 and reflects the then prevailing uncertainties regarding available types and scope of horticultural degree courses, qualifications for grants, terms of admission etc.