A new book which highlights fifty treasures in Aberdeen City and Aberdeenshire’s world-renowned archives is being launched today (25th November).
The Written Record: 50 Treasures from Aberdeen City and Aberdeenshire Archives tells the story of fifty documents – spanning from 1179 to the present day – chosen from the 800-year-old-collection.
Choosing just fifty documents was an unenviable task given the collection’s status as the most complete of any Scottish town or city, which resulted in the archive being inscribed on UNESCO’s ‘UK Memory of the World Register’ in 2013.
Arranged chronologically, the fifty documents that feature in the book are personal choices by those who know the archive best – the staff. Each chapter features a photograph of the relevant document and an article which places it in its context.
Some of the items are pivotal records in the history of the region and undoubtedly “star attractions”, such as the Stocket Charter which was granted to Aberdeen by Robert the Bruce in December 1319.
Others, such as the Aberdeenshire poor relief records, are perhaps less well known, but selected to highlight a specific angle on the past.
Councillor Martin Greig, Aberdeen City Council’s culture spokesperson, said: “This selection of items offers an excellent way for exploring our local history. Our archives are extremely rich and the book is an exciting opportunity to use them to learn about our past. Each document takes the reader on a fascinating journey of discovery and our experts have made a wide range of choices to help us understand those who came before us. I would not be surprised if the book is a sell-out and it would make a splendid Christmas gift.”
City Archivist, Phil Astley, said: “It is extraordinary to think that the collection bears witness to events such as the Wars of Independence, outbreaks of the plague, the Gunpowder Plot, a couple of Jacobite uprisings not to mention two World Wars.
“Collectively the fifty items convey an idea of the range and breadth of subjects that the archive holds while also providing a fascinating insight into the history of the region over the last 800 years.”
The book, costing £12 (p&p extra) has been printed in a limited run of 750 copies and can be purchased at Aberdeen Art Gallery shop or by mail order, by emailing, archives@aberdeencity.gov.uk
Image shows original architect's drawing of Marischal College.