As part of my internship I'm working for the Society of Antiquaries of Scotland. So I thought I'd give you a brief summary of what the society is, how they were founded and what their goals are.
The Society of Antiquaries of Scotland is an independent charity with the goal to promote the understanding and conservation of Scotland’s historical and archaeological environment. They are helping to translate the past to make it accessible for a contemporary audience and to highlight its relevance today.
The society was founded in 1780 by David Steuart Erskine, the 11th Earl of Buchan. Its purpose is set out in the Royal Charter: "…to investigate both antiquities and natural and civil history in general, with the intention that the talents of mankind should be cultivated and that the study of natural and useful sciences should be promoted.”
Members began donating material (archaeological artifacts, books, paintings etc.) to the society, so much that they bought a property to store the donations properly. By 1850 they were even able to publish a 150 page catalogue to show their big collection. One year later they conveyed their collections to the nation - all objects are now national property. The only thing the society asked for in return was free accommodation at all times as well as preservation and exhibition of the collection. That's why the Society of Antiquaries of Scotland is still located in the National Museums Scotland. [1]
The society provides new information through lectures, seminars, workshops and conferences. In addition they publish books and peer reviewed papers and administer research grants and prizes. [2]
Find their research projects here
If you're interested in their publications, click here
Footnotes
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