Manuscripts

A Letter from Robert Burns to Mr. Wm. Stewart, Closeburn

Image Rights Holder:

East Ayrshire Council

Project:

:Future Museum

What:

Manuscripts

Subject:

letter

Who:

Robert Burns (Author)

When:

18th Century

Where:

Description:

This letter, written in Burns' own hand, is dated Glencairn Kirk, Thursday even.

 

William Stewart (1749-1812) was the son of a publican.  He was an acquaintance of Robert Burns who knew him as the factor of the Closeburn Estate of the Rev. James Stuart Menteith of Barrowby, Lincolnshire.  He was the father of 'lovely Polly Stewart' and was frequently visited by the poet when he was an exciseman.

 

Using his diamond tipped stylus, Burns cut the line 'You're welcome Willie Stewart' on a crystal glass which was later aquired by Sir Walter Scott.