A notebook documenting the births, deaths and marriages of the family of John Robertson, a former Lord Provost of Aberdeen will go up for auction at the prestigious Woolley & Wallis Salisbury Salerooms on Wednesday October 2.
The first page of the early 18th century green vellum leather bound notebook is inscribed with the words “Berwick Supra Tweed 18th Febry 1712” above a hand-coloured, engraved coat of arms of the Robertson of Pitmillan and Foveran family. Covering more than a century of family history, from 1725 to 1895 it includes inscriptions by John Robertson, who was Lord Provost from 1736-1738.
It is thought that at the time of buying the Foveran estate, the Robertsons were stocking manufacturers in Aberdeen and a part of Aberdeen’s political circle.
“This is a fascinating little piece of Aberdeenshire history, and of particular interest to anyone in the Robertson family,” said Mark Yuan-Richards, Furniture Specialist. “The notebooks are in relatively good condition and will make an interesting addition to a family or political history collection.”
The notebook, which is being sold along with an 18th century gilt tooled red leather notebook, is being sold as part of Furniture, Works of Art & Clocks auction. The red notebook appears to be some sort of Almanac for the year 1781. Printed rather than handwritten, it includes notable dates (movable feasts) for that year and well as historical information including the dates of monarchs up to 1781 and tithe dates.
Together the items have a pre-auction estimate of £100-£200.
The auction at Woolley & Wallis on October 2nd will offer almost 800 lots for sale. For information on how to register for online bidding, email enquiries@woolleyandwallis.co.uk or call 01722 424500.