2020 is the 250th anniversary of the birth of James Hogg (1770-1835), known as the Ettrick Shepherd. Today he is best known for his novel, The Private Memoirs and Confessions of a Justified Sinner (1824), but he also wrote many other novels, poems, stories and essays. He was born in the Scottish Borders and battled against a childhood of poverty and a lack of formal education to become one of the most prolific Scottish writers of the 19th century.
The University Library is fortunate to have a collection of early editions of Hogg’s works, as well as many manuscripts, donated by descendants of James Hogg. Highlights of the collection include Hogg’s journal notebooks from a tour of the Western Highlands and Hebrides in 1803; his correspondence with his wife during their courtship and marriage; and his household and farm accounts and papers. For more details see the Library’s website.
The James Hogg Collection is listed in the online library catalogue and can be consulted in the Archives Reading Room – please email archives@stir.ac.uk to arrange an appointment. Note that Archives and Special Collections are currently operating a reduced service. For full details see the Library’s website.
Join this free online event to celebrate James Hogg’s 250th birthday:
James Hogg Jubilee: 1770-2020
Hosted by Dr Valentina Bold and Dr Adrian Hunter
Tuesday 1st December, 16.00-17.30
Register at: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/james-hogg-jubilee-1770-2020-tickets-128599413307
