Patrick Barry (horticulturist)

Patrick Barry (1816-1870) was a prominent Irish-American horticulturist, nurseryman, and author. He is best known for his contributions to pomology (the science of fruit growing) in the United States during the 19th century.

Born in Belfast, Ireland, Barry emigrated to the United States in 1836 and settled in Rochester, New York, a region already becoming known for its fruit production. He initially worked in the printing business but soon developed a strong interest in horticulture.

In 1840, he partnered with George Ellwanger to establish the Ellwanger & Barry nursery. This nursery quickly became one of the largest and most influential in the United States, renowned for its vast collection of fruit trees, ornamental trees, shrubs, and flowers. Ellwanger & Barry introduced and popularized many new varieties of fruits and ornamentals, contributing significantly to the development of American horticulture.

Barry was a prolific writer and advocate for horticultural advancements. He authored The Fruit Garden, published in 1851, which became a standard reference work for fruit growers across the country. The book provided detailed descriptions of various fruit varieties, along with practical advice on cultivation, pruning, and pest management. He also served as editor of The Horticulturist, a leading horticultural journal of the time, using the platform to disseminate knowledge and promote best practices within the industry.

Barry was a strong advocate for horticultural education and experimentation. He played a key role in the formation of the American Pomological Society (later the American Pomological Association) and served as its president. He actively promoted the establishment of agricultural colleges and experimental farms to further advance horticultural knowledge and practices. His efforts contributed significantly to the professionalization of horticulture in the United States.