| Administrative History | The vice-provost of the College of Fort William in Calcutta, Claudius [Claud] Buchanan presented approximately 100 books to King's College in June 1804. However, the gift sparked a disagreement between the colleges of Marischal and King's over the bequest. The second consignment of books were vaguely addressed to the, at the time, non-existent University of Aberdeen. Marischal College received the second consignment and felt they were the rightful recipients. There followed a long- custody battle for the books as to which of the colleges was the rightful owner. It appears from this correspondence that Dr Buchanan, who made donations and sponsored prizes at many universities and public schools, was unaware that Aberdeen had two distinct colleges and had intended the gift to both of the Colleges. |
| Custodial History | Previously listed as MSK 272 but remained as part of an unlisted bundle at the end of the series. |