Copy of the Deed of Gift for the Dick Institute

This is a copy of the Deed of Gift stating James Dick's commitment to providing the funds for the building of the Dick Institute.   It was found inside a time capsule that was discovered at the Dick Institute in December 2006. Stonemasons working on the cleaning of the stonework found the capsule in a wall close to the main entrance. In addition to the Deed of Gift it also contained bank notes, coins and newspapers and plans for the building works.   "Copy of Deed of Gift To Provost Mackay, Kilmarnock I James Dick, Merchant, Glasgow, and residing at fortyone Newark Drive, Pollokshields, being desirous to do something for Kilmarnock, my native town, hereby agree and oblige myself to erect and gift to Kilmarnock a new building at a cost not exceeding eight thousand pounds, to be used as the Public Library and Museum, and to be erected on the site of Elmbank House and offices presently occupied by the Public Library and Museum. The gift being in memory of my late brother and myself is to be called The Dick Institute. This agreement and obligation so far as not implemented during my lifetime to be binding on my heirs and executives. Dated at Glasgow this third day of May Eighteen hundred and ninety seven. (sgd) James Dick Institute (sgd) John …………………. Cashier to Messrs. R. & J. Dick Greenhead, Glasgow. Witness – (sgd) W. Middlemas of Kilmarnock Town Clerk. Witness - "