The Stewart Society Appeal

As early as 1903, the Society's records noted that the expanding library collection demanded the acquisition of suitable premises. However, for many years - indeed until 1988 - the Society was lucky enough to be provided with accommodation in the legal offices of the Secretary or other officers of the Society. This fortunate state of affairs had to come to an end and since 1988 the search has been on for permanent premises and, more importantly, for a means of paying for them.

Now suitable premises have been found and purchased in the very centre of Edinburgh, at 53 George Street. The premises are on the 2nd floor and consist of six rooms, two of which will initially be occupied by the Society. One is to be a library and meeting room for members, where the Society's pictures and treasures will be displayed, and the other providing archive and other records which are not in book form. The other four rooms will initially be let, providing in the short term a partial return on he money invested in the property, and invaluable scope for expansion in the long term.

The total cost of the purchase, including refurbishment, amounts to some £260,000, part of which will be funded by the Society's Benevolent Fund on commercial terms. This represents an average contribution per member of £300 (in the UK, £250 plus reclaimed tax). We realise that not all members will be able to contribute at this level but, if those who can will contribute more, we believe that the target can be comfortably reached.

go to pledge form (I would like to make a donation to this appeal)