Loudons and the Gardening Press

Taylor & Francis

Through close readings of individual serials and books Sarah Dewis examines the significant contributions John and Jane Webb Loudon made to the gardening press and democratic discourse. Vilified during their lifetimes by some sections of the press, they were innovatory in emphasizing the value of scientific knowledge and the acquisition of taste. Their publications are placed in the context of book, media, education, garden and urban social history and women\u2019s journalism. > Through close readings of individual serials and books and archival work on the publication history of the Gardener\u2019s Magazine (1826-44) Sarah Dewis examines the significant contributions John and Jane Webb Loudon made to the gardening press and democratic discourse. Vilified during their lifetimes by some sections of the press, the Loudons were key players in the democratization of print media and the development of the printed image. Both offered women readers a cultural alternative to the predomina.