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Author Topic: William McDOWALL +++ COMPLETED +++ Thanks for the response  (Read 225 times)
CobaltBlue
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Posts: 22


Census information Crown Copyright, from www.nationalarchives.gov.uk
William McDOWALL +++ COMPLETED +++ Thanks for the response
« on: Sunday 22 February 09 14:29 UTC (UK) »
My ggggrandfather William McDowall (DOB not known) is recorded on his childrens' baptism records in 1837 and 1839 as a "philosophical instrument maker", living at 33 Parkside Street, Edinburgh. 

In 1839, he, his wife Clementina and his children Jessie and Robert, boarded the "Bengal Merchant" to New Zealand. Jessie, my gggrandmother returned to England around 1872, married a soldier, and noted her father's occupation on the marriage certificate as "instrument maker"

I'm already following up the NZ connection, but I would be very grateful if someone could help me with the following questions:

1. I assume that William served an apprenticeship - are such records available?
2. Is there likely to be a Masonic connection with this trade?
3. Any other resources available for this trade?

Many thanks
« Last Edit: Tuesday 16 June 09 05:12 UTC (UK) by CobaltBlue » Logged
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KirstyG
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Posts: 954


Census information Crown Copyright, from www.nationalarchives.gov.uk
Re: William McDOWALL
« Reply #1 on: Tuesday 24 February 09 14:10 UTC (UK) »
A couple of potentially useful resources:

A paper with a great many references to materials of the history of Scientific and Philosophical Instruments and their makers.
http://members.optusnet.com.au/jph8524/JHSciInstGuide.htm

A book listing makers (at that price I would suggest a library search!)
http://www.amazon.com/Directory-British-Scientific-Instrument-1550-1851/dp/0302006346
http://www.amazon.co.uk/Directory-British-Scientific-Instrument-1550-1851/dp/0302006346

The book also lists Apprentices:

"This directory lists over 5000 scientific instrument makers and retailers working in the British Isles between 1550 and 1851, together with a further 10,000 names of apprentices and associates. "

Kirsty
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