Ewen-Grahame fonds

Collection consists of correspondence, legal and business papers of John Ewen (1741- 1821), merchant, Aberdeen, Scotland; his daughter Elizabeth, Mrs. James Grahame; his grandson Baron Grahame; and other members of the Grahame Family. Of particular interest for Scottish Art, Business, Agriculture, Politics and Society, 1780-1840.

John Ewen (1745-1821) was a merchant, writer, philanthropist and reformer who lived in Aberdeen, Scotland. Born at Montrose, he began his career as a traveling salesman. At various times he worked as a merchant, jeweller and goldsmith and amassed a substantial fortune. Ewen was involved in the political changes that swept Scotland in the late eighteenth-century, acting as Secretary of the Convention for Burgh Reform in Scotland. He was also involved in local concerns such as finances and police matters. His Police Bill of the 1790s led to better road conditions, lighting and cleaner streets in Aberdeen, along with streets being named and houses numbered. He also worked to reform corrupt practices in local government. Ewen was also Principal Manager of the Gaelic Society for many years, and was a keen patron of the arts. He died 21 October 1821 at the age of 75.