The Caley History Page. The Royal Caledonian Horticultural Society, founded in 1809, was incorporated by Royal Charter in 1824 "for the purpose of forming a society for the improvement of horticulture in all its branches". The Society also incorporates the Edinburgh Horticultural Society and the Scottish Horticultural Association. A further Royal Charter granted in 1898 made alterations and additions.

Motivation for the formation of the Caley seems to have been spurred on by the creation of similar societies in the south and by a desire to represent the horticultural excellence and accomplishment in Scotland, this being achieved despite the cooler growing conditions.

Trying to produce a potted version in the limited space of this web page for a society steeped in history is a difficult task. In fact the history of the Royal Caledonian Horticultural Society is just too long and involved to do it full justice here. The society's history has been extensively researched and well documented through the years, from its formation in 1809, at the hands of Dr. Andrew Duncan, right through and into the new Millennium.

So instead of giving what can only be a watered down version, the reader is referred to other links and documents where the history of the Caley is examined in some depth. Here are two recent references:

1. Dr. Andrew Duncan, Senior (1744-1828)
Father of the Caledonian Horticultural Society.
Connie Byrom
The Caledonian Gardener 1999.

2. Certificate of Merit
A Fascinating Insight in an Aspect of the Caley's Early History.
Connie Byrom
The Caledonian Gardener 1998.

Please note that the history of the Society is still constantly being investigated. If any readers have relevant historical information or records, maybe in the form of old cups or awards, journals, books, or old photographs, then please get in touch with Ivor Santer, Tom Mabbott or Bruce Borrows.