Selection of the Month

Selection of the Month

Under Lochnagar is the Crathie Parish Church book of the bazaar from 1894. Books of the bazaar were commemorative books sold to raise church funds. The bazaars and fairs they accompanied typically involved a number of arts, crafts and flower stalls and various entertainments.

The books themselves tended to feature a history of the parish or congregation, essays on history and art, poems, songs, illustrations and advertisements for local businesses.

Under Lochnagar is one of the largest and most impressive books of this sort. The object of the bazaar was to raise funds in order to renovate Crathie Parish Church and the initiative had the backing of members of the royal family. The book, which was edited by R. A. Profeit, featured contributions from Rudyard Kipling and Jerome K. Jerome.

One of the most interesting aspects of Under Lochnagar is the over 100 advertisements for historic local businesses that are of an ornate and complementary design. In order to celebrate the Scottish year of Food and Drink this selection showcases a number the adverts on this subject.

In his Editorial Notice, R. A. Profeit writes that the volume's production has been "a labour of love, rendered, if that were possible, still more so by the hearty co-operation of those who have contributed to its pages. My warmest thanks are, therefore, due to all - artists, authors, and composers - and I take this opportunity of cordially indorsing my indebtedness to them. Especial thanks are due to Mr John Mitchell, Aberdeen, for his illustrations of local scenery, and to Messrs Taylor & Henderson, the printers and publishers, for the care and trouble they have bestowed upon the production of the volume. I can only hope, in conclusion, that our united efforts may meet the recognition and support of the public, upon whom, in great measure, the ultimate success of the scheme depends."

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