Lid of the Dumfries Freedom Box

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This lid is from the Dumfries Freedom Box, presented with the Freedom of the Burgh, to Henry Dundas in 1793 for his efforts in removing a tax on coal.

The lift-off rectangular silver cushion lid has a double skin, the lower part being plain silver gilt.

Dundas was given honours by many Scoittish burghs in thanks for removing a tax on coal, and boosting local economies. He thought cheaper fuel would reduce civil unrest.

Record details

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• Online ID: 000-100-045-905-C
• Image Rights Holder: National Museums Scotland
• Project: National Museums Scotland
  Project description   View all records in project
• Ref: National Museums Scotland  H.1991.10.1
• Date: 1793
  
• Material: Silver; silver gilt. Inscription: Underside of lid: castle (Edinburgh); thistle AG under Prince of Wales feathers (Alexander Gardener); M (1793-4); King's head in oval punch; panel: ST MICHAEL SIGILLUM COMMUNE BURGI DE DUMFRIE
  Freedom casket, lid
  
• Dimensions: 12 mm H x 202 mm L x 128 mm W
  
• What: Freedom casket, lid
  
• Subject:
• Who: Alexander Gardener, Edinburgh (Silversmith)
  Henry Dundas of Melville (Owner)
  
• Where: Dumfries
  Scotland, Midlothian, Edinburgh
  
• Event:
• Description: Lift-off rectangular cushion lid from the Dumfries Freedom Box presented to Henry Dundas in recognition of his role in obtaining the abolition of the duty on waterborne coal, June 1793
  
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