1885 - 1945: Imperial Kew

Socially and economically, these were turbulent times. The Boer War, then two World Wars, saw Britain's wealth and influence fall from its turn of the century heights. Under three monarchs and one abdication, ties with the Empire first strengthened, then started to unravel. Women's suffrage was argued over and attained. The inexorable rise of the middle classes became a feature of society. Around London, suburbia happened as public transport developed. At Kew, life went on, somewhat restrained, but reflecting the change all around.

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Sir William Thiselton-Dyer as Director

Unification and expansion of the Gardens

The Herbarium expanded, new glasshouses built

David Prain as Director

Sir Arthur William Hill and the British Empire

1939-1945: Kew at war

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