An original mid-18th century manuscript document. Measuring an impressive 48 x 28.5 cm on heavy laid paper, this official Notarial Instrument of Sasine is dated March 16, 1754, during the reign of King George II.
 
The Historical Story:
Rooted in the rich history of Dundonald, Ayrshire (Kyle Stewart), this document captures a high-stakes financial agreement. Captain Laurence Nugent, Collector of His Majesty’s Customs at Irvine, mortgaged his estate lands—including the lands of Gainside, Reanhills, and Milllands—to powerful Scottish judge and politician Andrew Fletcher, Esq. of Milton (Lord Milton) to secure a major debt.
Fascinating Document Details:
 
Feudal Law in Action: Vividly describes the ancient Scottish property ritual of transferring legal possession through the physical delivery of "earth and stone" and a handful of corn on the land.
 
Notable Signatories: Features the intricate calligraphic signet and signature of Notary Public John MacCulloch, marked with his personal professional motto "Duro verum scribo" ("I write hard truth"), alongside local witnesses William Kelso and John Baird.
Authentic Artifacts: Retains period brown iron-gall ink script, multi-part folding creases, and an embossed George II fiscal revenue stamp.
 
Condition:
Aged antique condition with traditional fold lines, minor edge wear, and rich surface patination consistent with a working legal paper approaching 270 years old. An extraordinary centrepiece for collectors of Scottish genealogy, legal history, or antiquarian calligraphy ready for framing.