Rental Book for the Estate of George Keith, 8th Earl Marischal

Leather-bound rental book of the estate of George Keith, 8th Earl Marischal, for the parishes of Peterhead, Longside, Old Deer, Strichen and Rathen within the sheriffdom of Aberdeen, and St. Fergus and Fetterangus within the sheriffdom of Banff. Dated 1676, the book contains names of tenants, rentals and conditions.

GEORGE KEITH, 8th Earl Marischal, was the younger brother of William, 7th Earl Marischal and 1st Earl of Kintore, who died without male issue. He succeeded to the title at the death of his brother in 1661. In his younger years he served in the French army and rose to the rank of colonel. He returned to Scotland when the civil war broke out, but does not appear to have taken any active part on either side until the army of the 'Engagement' was raised to rescue Charles I. from the Republican party. He commanded a regiment of foot in that mismanaged enterprise, and fought at the battle of Preston (August 17th, 1648). Three years later he had the command of three regiments at the battle of Worcester, where he displayed the hereditary bravery of his house, but was overpowered by numbers and taken prisoner. He appears to have lived quietly on his estates during the reigns of Charles II. and his brother, James VII. He took no active part on either side at the Revolution. 'Earl Marshall,' wrote Claverhouse to Melfort, 'is at Edinburgh, but does not meddle.' He died in 1694.

The collection is open to access by appointment. Please note: the item is very fragile and care must be taken when handled. Book rests and snake weights are available.

Due to copyright law, prior written permission must be obtained from Aberdeenshire Museums Service for publication or reproduction of any material within the archive. A cost may be involved. Please contact: Aberdeenshire Museums Service, Station Road, Mintlaw, Near Peterhead, Aberdeenshire AB42 5EE Tel: +44 (0)1467 536544 email: museums@aberdeenshire.gov.uk