Special Collections: William Smellie

William Smellie (1740-1795) was a printer, editor, author and first Keeper of the Society of Antiquaries of Scotland.

His papers consist of correspondence with friends, family and business associates; manuscripts of his own works on natural history; reviews; prefaces and satirical pieces.

Smellie's own papers range from 1759 to 1795, but the collection also contains letters, 1795-1820, to Alexander Smellie, mostly concerning his father's biography. Personal correspondents include Dr Samuel Charteris, writing about religious and philosophical subjects, Lord Buchan concerning the Society of Antiquaries of Scotland, and Maria Riddell. There are also letters from well-known contemporary figures such as Thomas Pennant, Lord Hailes and Principal William Robertson.

Listing of William Smellie Papers

George Watson. Portrait of William Smellie, FSA. c1790