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Archives & Special Collections are the custodians of the University of Glasgow’s Stirling Maxwell Collection. These pages only scratch the surface of the possibilities for collections research and teaching options that are available.
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These pages provide context about the Stirling Maxwell Collection and why it was mentioned in the History of Slavery Steering Group Report as one of the ways the University profited from slavery in the Caribbean.
It has been developed in support of the Understanding Racism, Transforming University Cultures report to create a space to inspire critical reflection on what it means to the University to be custodian of such an important collection.
A more detailed version of this site is also available in Moodle for those with a University login. It contains community discussion boards and downloadable content for use in teaching and learning.
- Book a consultation with specialist staff
- Visit
Stirling Maxwell and Glasgow
The influence and legacies of Sir William Stirling Maxwell, and of the Stirling and Maxwell families can still be discovered. There are many ways to explore:
- Visit the Stirling Maxwell Research Project
- Find out about the Stirling Maxwell Art Collection held by searching the Glasgow Museums Collections Navigator
- Visit the Maxwell family home at Pollok House, now managed by the National Trust for Scotland.
- Take a walk around the south side of Glasgow. The influence of Sir John Stirling Maxwell, whose will allowed the transfer of his father's emblem books to the University, can be seen in, for example, the architecture of Pollokshields Burgh Hall and even in the name of a pub in Shawlands main street.
- More on Stirling Maxwell and Spanish Culture
About the issues raised
These pages cover themes of racism and exclusion. Although a challenging read for all, this resource may be particularly difficult for those who have experienced racism or harassment. If you require support relating to the themes of the resource, please visit:
or contact the University’s race equality champion: racechampion@glasgow.ac.uk