Travels and adventures of an orchid hunter: An account of canoe and camp life in Colombia, while collecting orchids in the northern Andes

Written by Albert Millican, 'Travels and Adventures of an Orchid Hunter' recounts his journey through Colombia in the late 19th century while collecting orchids in the northern Andes. The narrative details his experiences with local wildlife, the landscapes he traverses, and the socio-political context of the time, particularly the French attempt to construct a canal in Panama. Notably, Millican's account reflects the colonial attitudes of the era, showcasing a complex relationship with the native populations and the environment, as he describes both the beauty of the orchids and the destruction caused by collectors. This travelogue serves as a historical document of exploration and exploitation in South America.