Alexander Thomson of Banchory-Devenick (1792-1868), a graduate twice of Marischal College (MA 1816, LLD 1855) pursued a variety of subjects such as Law, Mathematics, Languages, Botany, Geology and Zoology. It would seem that no subject was unworthy of his study, which is reflected in his library - mainly pamphlets - that he amassed over the years. Well educated, Thomson travelled widely with his family in Europe, especially in Italy and France. His wide-ranging interests are well represented in his library of c. 1,600 books, a large proportion of which are in Italian or on Italian literature as well as other subjects. There is also a considerable body of scientific material. This Collection is complemented by the Thomson Collection of bound pamphlets.
Keywords: Law; mathematics; literature (European); natural history; geology.
Strengths: The wide-ranging interests, activities and travels of Thomson are represented in this library of c. 1600 books, many in Italian or on Italian subjects. The Collection includes eleven sixteenth-century volumes printed in Italy. There are also many other works of European literature in the original languages and many scientific works in English.
Languages:English, Italian
Identifier: TB
Physical characteristics: 2400 volumes
Accumulation date range: 1800s-1868
Contents date range: 1715-1865
Associated Publications: Smeaton, George, Memoir of Alexander Thomson of Banchory . (Edinburgh: Edmonston & Douglas, 1869). Aberdeen University Library, Catalogue of Pamphlets in the King, the Thomson and the Herald Collections (Aberdeen: Aberdeen University, 1927). Hunt, Charles, 'Alexander Thomson, Gentleman and Collector', Deeside Field, 18 (1984), 98-103. AU MS 2210: Trust disposition and deed of settlement, 1867 July 26, of Alexander Thomson (1798-1868), writer. AU MS 2829: Catalogue of Library of Alexander Thomson (1798-1868), of Banchory, author, as bequeathed to Free Church College, Aberdeen. AU MS 3244/1-8: Papers of Alexander Thomson (1798-1868), author, Banchory, Kincardineshire. Available on Library OPAC or WebPAC
Accrual Status: Closed.
Custodial history/provenance: Alexander Thompson (1798-1868), laird of Banchory Devenick (MA, 1816 and LLD, 1855, Marischal College), bequeathed his library to the Free Church College, Aberdeen, with directions that it be made over to the University should the Free Church College cease to be recognised by the Free Church for the training of its ministers. Some of the Collection was later deposited around 1970, and is on permanent loan to the University of Aberdeen from Christ's College.
Access Control: Closed access - please request. Non-borrowable.