Charles Bogue Luffman, Ina Higgins, and science at the Burnley School of horticulture in Melbourne, Australia, 1891–1919

Abstract

This appraisal investigates the development of scientifically based horticultural education in Australia. At the end of the nineteenth century, the discipline of horticulture underwent a major shift from a craft-based occupation to a scientific-based profession. Within this context, two Australian horticultural pioneers emerged—Charles Bogue Luffman (1862–1920) and Ina Higgins (1860–1948). Both are considered in the context of being connected to Australia’s first horticultural college opening in 1891, the Burnley School of Horticultural. This appraisal discusses the Victorian Colonial Government progressive attitude to horticultural education to addressed the lack of skills and knowledge of orchardists and the introduction of women students. The appraisal’s analysis investigates the models of curriculum used and discusses whether there were any intercolonial connections to other British colonies. Through the historiography of literature, the appraisal shows that new interest in Higgins and Luffman has emerged especially in garden design and employment for women nevertheless horticultural education still lags. And finally, the new information presented discusses why horticultural was more progressive than agriculture and acknowledges there were prejudices towards education women in the rural industries. This including exposing banning women from 1909 to 1911 was not gender based but financial and Burnley’s connection with the women’s movement of Victoria overcame this banning hurdle. Presented throughout the appraisal is the contribution Higgins and Luffman made individually and together.