Lincoln Ware Riddle

Lincoln Ware Riddle (October 17, 1880 – January 16, 1921) was an American botanist who specialized in the study of lichens. Born and educated in Massachusetts, Riddle made significant contributions to lichenology, leveraging extensive scientific collections at Wellesley College and Harvard University. Throughout his career, he held esteemed positions at both institutions and was actively involved in botanical societies and editorial boards. His untimely death at the age of 40 left a notable void in the botanical community, but his impact remains, marked by various publications and honors.

Early life and education Born in Jamaica Plain, Massachusetts, Riddle was educated at the Roxbury Latin School and a private school in Boston. His fascination with botany began at age 12 when he resolved to pursue it professionally, a decision he never wavered from.