Seeds of Change Garden

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Seeds of Change:
Commemorating the Columbian Exchange

Christopher Columbus did more than force the cartographers of Europe to revise their maps of the Earth. His voyages of discovery were pivotal in world history. The Western Hemisphere was profoundly transformed, both biologically and culturally, by exchanges of plants, animals, and diseases, which were introduced sometimes deliberately, sometimes accidentally, by Columbus and those who followed him. Eventually the process of encounter and exchange that Columbus initiated affected the Old World as well, altering the flora and fauna, reordering the ethnic composition of countries, and changing the diet and health of peoples everywhere.

The continuing influence of Columbus' voyages is an important part of the "Seeds of Change" story. Five hundred years ago, people gave little thought to the environment. The Columbus quincentenary, commemorated in 1992, afforded time for contemplation. It was a time to think upon the achievements of those first adventurers who dared to challenge the mythical monsters that had kept Europe isolated by a moat of ignorance, doubt, and anxiety, but it was also a time to re-assess and to evaluate our options for the future. Ours is an era when decisions have instant ramifications around the globe. Humankind's continued achievements offer much promise for a healthier, happier future, however, technological advances often have environmental implications. The forces of change and despoliation set in motion by Columbus have not abated; indeed, they are accelerating.

The exhibit, "Seeds of Change," developed by the National Museum of Natural History was an attempt to interpret the true meaning of Columbus' voyage five hundred years after that fateful day when the Admiral of the Ocean Sea stepped ashore in the Bahamas and unwittingly changed the course of world history. Each exchange, whether accidental or intentional, had both positive and negative consequences.

A gardening project at Abingdon Elementary School in Arlington, Virginia, was developed in association with the "Seeds of Change" exhibit. This "Seeds of Change Garden" took as its theme "humanity working together and caring for the Earth." The garden served as a nexus of cross-cultural exchange and a social center where the members of a community were joined by the common bond of food production. Children are never too young to learn about sharing or the advantages of working together on projects. This elementary level curriculum guide encompasses all traditional subject areas. It gives students opportunities to put language arts, social studies, math, science, and other skills to work toward a common goal. Through the experience of gardening, children can come to understand the legacy of Columbus and the "Seeds of Change" planted by his voyages.

Herman J. Viola
Curator Emeritus
National Museum of Natural History

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