Paperknife and Spoon
Gairloch Museum

John Mackenzie, who owned this paperknife and spoon, was one of the most important Gaelic scholars of his time. He is known as ‘John Mackenzie of the Beauties’ after his collection of biographical accounts and poetry of the best Gaelic poets through history. The work is called Sar Obair nam Bard Gaelach and is translated as The Beauties of Gaelic poetry.

John Mackenzie of the Beauties was also responsible for publishing the works of the famous Gairloch Bard William Ross. Ross is often referred to as the Rabbie Burns of the Highlands, due to the outstanding literary quality of his works and the love themes on which he dwelled. An obelisk to the memory of John Mackenzie was erected by public subscription to his memory and stands next to the old burial ground in which William Ross’s grave can be found.