Wooden sea-chest

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This wooden sea-chest (pictured here open) was used by Alexander Selkirk during his solitary stay on the island of Juan Fernandez in the Pacific Ocean from 1704-9. Born in Largo in Fife, Selkirk was the inspiration for Daniel Defoe's 'Robinson Crusoe'.

Sea-chest of Alexander Selkirk of Lower Largo, Fife, used by him during his solitary stay on the island of Juan Fernandez in the Pacific Ocean, 1704 - 1709

After the publication of his experiences of the four-year stay on the island, Selkirk returned to sea. At his death in 1721 he was a lieutenant in the Royal Navy.

Record details

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• Online ID: 000-190-000-838-C
• Image Rights Holder: National Museums Scotland
• Project: National Museums Scotland
  Project description   View all records in project
• Ref: National Museums Scotland  H.NT 7
• Date: 1704 - 1709
  17th or 18th century
  
• Material: Sea chest
  
• Dimensions: 610 mm x 457 mm x 914 mm
  
• What: Sea chest
  
• Subject: Miscellaneous (NMAS Classification)
  
• Who: Alexander Selkirk (Owner)
  Robinson Crusoe
  
• Where: Chile, Juan Fernandez Islands
  Scotland, Fife, Lower Largo
  
• Event:
• Description:
• References:
  • Keay, J. & J. (eds). Collins Encyclopaedia of Scotland. London: HarperCollins, 1994, p 861. 
• Translations:
• Related Records: