Dick Institute

[danieloks2ndaccount]

Wondering if anyone knows anything about the history of the ownership of the Dick Institute. My grandmother + aunt are telling me that at sometime in the early 20th century it was owned by a (great) aunt and uncle of theirs, surname Blackwood. Their grandmother (my great-great-grandmother) was one of 16, born between 1876-1905, most of the last name Blackwood, so I'm supposing it could be any of them. At the turn of the century the family lived in the Hurlford/Riccarton area.

Any help is appreciated.
Daniel

[CaroleW]

Have you looked them up on any census?

Any christian names to narrow the search?

[crisane]

https://www.scottish-places.info › features › featurefirst6993.html
The Institute was the gift of James Dick (1823 - 1902), who pioneered the use of rubber soles on shoes, and named for his older brother Robert Dick (1820-91). Dick not only gave the money to construct the building, but also bequeathed a substantial number of books and artefacts which formed the basis of the collection.

http://portal.historicenvironment.scot/designation/LB35892

[danieloks2ndaccount]

A bit short for credits on SP right now but I'll probably do that soon. I did have a look at those who's death certificates are available to see their occupations but nothing that resembles owning a museum.

I have names and info on all siblings. I will provide names below; if anymore information regarding them is required feel free to ask.

James Blackwood (immigrated to NSW so probably not him)
Margaret Blackwood (married name Rankin)
John Clark Blackwood
Marion Blackwood (married name McGhee, then Waugh)
Susan Blackwood (married name Waugh)
Mary Blackwood (married name Chapman)
Thomas Blackwood
Robert Clark Blackwoood
Archibald Blackwood
William Blackwood
Richard Blackwood
David Blackwood
Catherine Blackwood (married name McFadzean)


Obviously haven't included children who died in infancy, and my great-great-grandmother who I know did not own it.

Should also note that I looked in some newspapers and they mention a "James Blackwood" (1823-1893) who's mineral collection is seemingly in the Dick Institute. That is the only mention I could find relating Blackwoods and the Dick Institute. Unfortunately he was born about half a century before these people.

Daniel