Souvenir pin cushion, with view of Abbotsford, near Galashiels, Scottish Borders

This varnished wooden souvenir pin cushion was probably produced by the firm of W & A Smith in Mauchline in Ayrshire. It is transfer-printed with a view of 'Abbotsford', Sir Walter Scott's home near Galashiels in the Scottish Borders. It dates from the late 19th century.

Pincushion with flat round covers of wood, with a transfer picture of Abbotsford

The firm of W & A Smith is said to have started in the early 1820s. Initially they made snuff boxes and razor strops (straps for sharpening razors). By 1841 they were selling tartan souvenir wares and in 1850 they published their 'Authenticated Tartans of the Clans and Families of Scotland'. From around 1860 to 1930 they produced vast quantities of souvenirs including boxes, table and desk accessories, and sewing items. The souvenirs were transfer-printed with views of British towns and cities, seaside resorts and exhibitions. Similar items, decorated appropriately, were produced for export to Europe, India, Australia and North America. The factory remained in business until a fire in 1933.

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