The charter chest of the Eight Northern Shires.
Founded in 1780, Eight Northern Shires appears to be a Glasgow friendly society. Each member of the club would contribute regularly, building up a pot of money which could be used to assist members who ran into difficulties such as unemployment or illness. In the days before state benefits and free health care, this kind of mutual aid greatly helped working people who fell on hard times.
Reference: 1419.87.56
Reproduced with the permission of Glasgow City Council, Glasgow Museums
Keywords:
charter chests, Eight Northern Shires, friendly societies, mutual aid