Anderson, Adam (1780-1846)

Adam Anderson studied at St Andrews University from 1796-1802, and also at Edinburgh University where he studied divinity. In 1809 he was appointed as rector of Perth Academy and remained there for 28 years, until he accepted the position of Professor of Natural History at St Andrews University. He held this chair until his death in 1846. This collection consists mainly of personal letters, written mostly to his parents between 1801 and 1809, which enlighten both our understanding of Anderson's student days and the trading and ship-owning activities of his family. They include accounts of a serious influenza outbreak, activities of the notorious press-gang, and body-snatching in Edinburgh, while a report on his recommendations for improving the water supply in Perth in 1837 illustrates his role in the development of Perth.

View the online catalogue entry for the Adam Anderson Collection (Part listed).

Images of the collection