Historical family document discovered: Brechin

[Martin Guthrie]

Just an update on this...  I sent the transcription to ANESFHS and they acknowledged receipt and said they'd look at it.  I followed up a few months later.  Nothing.  That was 2 years ago.  I chased them again a couple of months back and they again said they'd look at it.  No further response.

I guess I have to assume that they're simply not interested for whatever reason.  Can anyone suggest any other bodies worth approaching please?

Many thanks,
Martin

[Grothenwell]

I feel bad about this Martin, I can't comment on your case as you obviously have a different experience. But in all my dealings with the ANESFHS they have been nothing but helpful; we should remember they are all volunteers working for their love of genealogy and the north east of Scotland. I can only suggest now that you try a more commercial aspect and perhaps try The Leopard: Email

enquiries@leopardmag.co.uk

Leopard
Auld Logie
Pitcaple
Inverurie
Aberdeenshire AB51 5EE

Telephone 01467 681678

I have had the great pleasure of reading your work on Andrew's journal, and it certainly deserves a wide audience not only for it's historical importance but because it is a thoroughly good page turner.

Good luck,

Grothenwell.

[Archivos]

You could always self-publish it.  I know that there are perhaps money issues in doing this, but you should get some quotes from publishers.  You should be able to find information online which would be able to help in advising you about how to go about it.

Have you thought about what to do with the original journal?

[t1m]

Great find, but must be very frustrating not to see it in print after more than two years.

It reminds me of The Diary of John Sturrock, Millwright, Dundee 1864-65.  He was my 1st cousin, 4x removed.  It's described as "unique source material for students of Victorian Britain at all levels."  I don't think it's any longer in print, but in the nineties Tuckwell Press were printing it.  Perhaps it might be worth contacting Tuckwell Press about the diary you have.

Alternatively, try to contact the head of the department of modern history (or similar) of the Aberdeen universities.  They might be able to put you in touch with someone.

Tim

[Martin Guthrie]

Hi All,

Many thanks for the replies.  I've emailed The Leopard and Tuckwell Press (now part of Birlinn Ltd.) and we'll see what comes back.  I've also looked into self-publishing a little...  Yes, there are financial implications but it may well be an option worth considering.

As regards the original journal itself, it's currently residing fairly securely in a fireproof safe.  However my thinking was - once this is hopefully resolved - that the best place for it would probably be with Aberdeen City Archives.  Thoughts?

Best regards,
Martin

[t1m]

Aberdeen City Archives would be my first call, or perhaps a local museum.  It depends on the content, but I suspect that the more that is written about the daily life of Aberdeen, the more interesting they would find it.  You probably have something unique, and I think they'll be thrilled to have it.

Tim

PS Assuming it is published by someone, I look forward to reading it.

[Scottish FH]

Hi Martin,
                I am the email secretary from anesfhs and have just been shown this site and the emails starting nearly 2 years ago.
It’s certainly unacceptable the time scale since your original email.
               There is a committee meeting tomorrow evening when I will bring up this sad tale.
In defence of the volunteer who seems to be dealing? with your diary. They are one of the busiest volunteers who probably try’s to do too much and some things take a back seat. This is no excuse though. Sorry you have had this bad experience and can assure you that any email addressed to the society’s                                      enquiries[at]anesfhs.org.uk                          are usually replied to within 24 hours.(that's because I deal with the enquiries emails) Can you email me direct at the society's enquiries email address and I will let you know what is happening.
John
Moderator Comment: e-mail edited, to avoid spamming and other abuses.
Please replace [-- at --] with @

[Martin Guthrie]

Hi John,

Many thanks for getting involved.  I've sent you an email as you requested at the address above.

Kind regards,
Martin

[genjen]

Things are looking up, Martin. Here's hoping for success soon.

Jen