CollectionGB 0231 University of Aberdeen, Special Collections
LevelFonds
Ref NoMS 1013
TitleJohn Burness, poet: manuscripts of 'Thrummy Cap' and other works
Date1799
Extent0.02 linear metres
Creator NameBurness, John (fl 1799); poet
Administrative HistoryJohn Burness was a cousin of Robert Burns, and was also a poet. He lived in the North East of Scotland, and was not an educated man. His most famous work was ‘Thrummy Cap’, written in Doric. 'Charles Montgomery' was first performed at the Masons' Hall, Lerwick, Shetland in 1799. 'Thrummy Cap' was published in Dumfries in the same year.
SourceThe manuscript was presented in 1933 by Dr. Charles Murray, (1864-1941), author and poet. Murray was born in Alford in 1864 and married in South Africa whilst there as mining manager and inspector. He returned to Scotland, to Duff House in Banffshire, in 1919 for treatment for digestive problems, and retired there permanently in 1924. 'Hamewith', the work for which he is best known, appeared in 1900, though he also wrote other novels and poetry, all in Scots. He died in Banchory in 1941.
Description'Charles Montgomery, a Tragical Dramatic Tale', 1799; 'Thrummy Cap', 1799, and other works, original manuscript with later notes by James Rettie and William Walker, (1840-1931), bibliophile, 1799.
AccrualsNone expected.
Access StatusOpen
Access ConditionsThe records are available subject to the signed acceptance of the Department's access conditions.
LanguageEnglish
Physical DescriptionNo physical conditions affecting use of collection.
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