Newcastle University

This exhibition of material in the Robinson Library Special Collections intends to highlight some of the archival and printed gems held by the library concerning agriculture in the Northern counties, and in particular the material held relating to Northumberland.

Map of Northumberland
engraved by John Bailey
Larger version

The current exhibition runs chronologically looking at agriculture, in particular the development of breeding practices, technology and national and international influences in Northumberland, from the 18th century through to the 20th showing Special Collections material that are valuable research tools, but which also exist as interesting and exciting archival or rare book items within themselves.

One of the main reasons for holding this particular exhibition is to highlight the Gilchrist Collection (which originated in the Department of Agriculture) and was an historical library brought together by Professor D.A. Gilchrist for the use of students in the department.

Gilchrist held the Chair of Agriculture from 1902-1927. Examples from the collection have been used in the exhibition, but these represent only a sample of the items.

All the books from the Gilchrist Collection can be located on Library Search and are available on reference from Special Collections.