The Collected Writings of Dougal Graham, "Skellat" Bellman of Glasgow, Vol. 1 of 2

"The Collected Writings of Dougal Graham, 'Skellat' Bellman of Glasgow" is a collection of historical writings and chap literature edited by George MacGregor and produced in the late 19th century. The volume features the works of Dougal Graham, a notable figure in Scottish literature known for his humorous and sometimes satirical accounts of life in 18th century Scotland. The text includes a biographical introduction detailing Graham’s life, particularly through his connection with the Jacobite Rebellions, as well as an exploration of his various writings that reflect the culture and customs of his time. At the start of the volume, the editor emphasizes the historical neglect of Graham's contributions to Scottish literature, which have persisted in fragments over the years. The introduction highlights his journey from a humble background, with a physical deformity, to becoming a well-known poet and the city bellman in Glasgow, where he reported on local happenings with wit and charm. Interest in Graham's works has spurred efforts by contemporaries such as Sir Walter Scott to preserve his legacy, leading to this collected edition that seeks to unite his writings and provide context through extensive notes and scholarly commentary. This opening sets the stage for a deeper appreciation of Graham's impact on Scottish folk literature and its themes of everyday life. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Dougal Graham, born in the Raploch, Stirlingshire, Scotland, around 1725 and died in 1779, became the skellat bellman of Glasgow at some time around 1770. In addition he was a prolific author of Scottish chapbooks and provides the best prose examples of mid 18th century vernacular Scots. In his youth he followed the Jacobite and Hanoverian forces around Britain as a non-combatant. His The History of the Rebellion in Britain in the Years, 1745 & 1746 gave an account in doggerel of his experiences and sold very well.