Centenary Chat: Assoc. Prof. Don Beer - 'Miracle on Black Mountain: The Early History of the Australian National Botanical Gardens'

How did the ANBG come into existence? The surprising thing about its creation is that there was no forceful movement of public opinion in its favour, no leading politician who took it up as a cause.  This talk will examine the place occupied by a botanic garden in the early discussions of the ideal federal city, the contribution made by Walter Burley Griffin, the limited but important steps taken in the 1930s in unfavourable circumstances, and the roller coaster of development and delay post-World War II that led to the official opening in 1970.  The answer to our question will be found to be very Canberra-like. 

Don Beer, a Friend of the ANBG, was previously Associate Professor of History at the University of New England.