The Abertay Historical Society invites you to attend the launch of its latest publication
A BEACON OF CURIOSITY – ESSAYS ON SOCIAL AND INDUSTRIAL
HISTORY IN HONOUR OF ENID GAULDIE £7.50
To celebrate the long and creative life of the historian Enid Gauldie (1928-2024), this book
presents nine essays by Tayside writers and historians encompassing some of her many and
diverse passions. From the preservation of industrial relics such as the Telford Beacon to the
triumphs of the textile industry and the shame of slum housing – Enid Gauldie contributed
major advances in both local and industrial history. The authors of this commemorative book
have continued and developed her work in many fascinating areas.
• Becca Gauldie tells the eventful story of her mother’s life and career
• Kenneth Baxter explores Queen’s College Dundee at the time Enid was a student, and its
evolution into the University of Dundee
• David Walker recalls Enid’s �irst steps in industrial archaeology in and around Dunde
• Mark Watson describes two signi�icant relics of Dundee’s industrial past rescued by Enid
• Anthony Cooke discusses the Perth linen manufacturer William Sandeman
• Christopher Whatley revisits the meal riots of the late-18th century, focussed on
Invergowrie
• Erin Farley re-opens the Poets’ Boxes, a forgotten working-class institution
• Sarah Aitken explores the beginnings of council housing in Dundee and the slums that it
sought to replace
• Stephen Connelly provides an invaluable practical guide to resources for the aspiring
local historian
The launch will feature short talks by most of the authors and a book signing. All welcome!