We have another exciting blog post and this time it has been written by our Collections Officer Louise and is all about a little ‘autographs’ book which was recently donated to our collection.
I love an object with a story to tell and this little book that was donated this month gives us so many little snapshots of lives gone by, it’s too special not to share with you.
At first glance, it’s a tatty little book, with “Autographs” embossed on the front and the spine taped, the book looking a little sorry for itself. However, when I decided journey inside, I found wonderful little fragments of another era, some of which made me smile, some made me sad but all of which genuinely delighted me.
The first page is a neat, bold quote asking me;
“Are you in earnest? Seize this very minute:
What you can do, or dream you can, begin it;
Boldness has genius, power and magic in it.
Only engage and then the mind grows heated;
Begin, and then the work will be completed.”
Goethe
I think we would all agree that’s good advice! And the quotes, fun, drawings just keep on coming.
The book belonged to Ina and William Patrick who lived in Stevenston. The donor of the book thinks that it was added to by solders who were billeted with Ina during both wars. There are certainly items dated during both wars in the book. It’s too good not to share with you all. I hope you enjoy a little sneaky look into this window to the past.
