Doncaster Microscopical and General Scientific Society

A meeting of the above society was held at the Grammar School (by kind permission of the Rev. G. Smith, M.A. , head master, on Wednesday  evening, when a lecture on “Plant Life” was given by Mr. W. H. Stott. The chair was taken by Mr. Kirk.

The lecture, which was illustrated by a large number of representations, was commenced with a picture of a country lane, full of rich and varied colours, showing how vegetable creation lent beauty to the landscape; and how the study of botany had an important bearing upon the necessities, conveniences, and elegancies of life.

The lecturer next described plants, and illustrated their elementary structures, cells, and vessels; the organs found in all plants, and the special functions performed by different parts of the plant.

After explaining the stem and the formation of the buds, which were a curious and interesting study, and not one of the least mysterious of the facts connected with the power of growth, Mr. Stott passed to the twigs or sprays, and afterwards to the leaves, which added so great a charm to the forms which they clothed.

Having considered the exterior character of leaves, their structure was explained, as well as their general purposes and use, even after they had fallen from the tree. Referring to the flower, the lecturer described the various organs, and afterwards explained the fruit and seeds, showing how germination took place.

During the lecture, Mr. Stott showed on the screen several familiar wild flowers, making some passing reference to each, and remarking upon the various peculiar phenomena presented by plants.

At the close the Chairman proposed a hearty vote of thanks to Mr. Stott for his able, instructive, and interesting lecture. And the lecturer, having returned thanks, the meeting closed.

[Doncaster Gazette, 12 December 1884]