Amherst College Archives & Special Collections
Amherst , US

circa 1828 to 1840

Orra White Hitchcock (March 8, 1796 – May 26, 1863) was a pioneering figure in American botanical and scientific illustration during the 19th century. Renowned for her intricate and detailed artwork, Hitchcock made significant contributions to the scientific community through her illustrations, which were featured prominently in the works of her husband, geologist Edward Hitchcock.

Born with a keen artistic talent and a passion for science, Orra White Hitchcock's illustrations played a vital role in documenting and understanding the natural world. Her ability to accurately depict plant specimens and geological formations earned her widespread recognition and respect among scientists and scholars of her time.