It isn’t often we find a collection within a collection here at Tasglann nan Eilean Siar but that is exactly what has happened with James Shaw Grant and the MacAulay (Rhodesia) Fund. The Fund was set up after the death of Ness man Murdo MacAulay who made his fortune in Rhodesia, now Zimbabwe. He stated in his will that the money left by him was to be used for the good of his native island. For example, financial assistance for those who wanted to set up their own business, those at study or fishermen who were looking to buy boats and other vital equipment.
While working on the Shaw Grant collection, I came across a folder of correspondence and minutes from meetings held by The MacAulay (Rhodesia) Fund had to discuss applications for financial assistance. James Shaw Grant was Chairman of the Trust for a period of time and that is how the collection came to be within his records. Among the records are discussions on building a new hall in Ness – where many an islander danced the night away happily in the years after!
Another find for Tasglann nan Eilean Siar!
