The Nicolson Institute

‘To the most approved charitable institution in my native town for the education and rearing of destitute children even, I bequeath one-third part of my entire property  in the hope that I may be the indirect means of rendering some assistance to the children of some of my oldest acquaintances.’  - Alexander Nicolson

How did the tragic death of a young Stornoway engineer in Shanghai in 1875 lead to the birth of an island institution which celebrated its 150th anniversary in 2023?

Iain Smith brings together letters, school magazine features, records of meetings, a treasure trove of photographs, and a previously unpublished school history to tell the story of The Nicolson Institute, its founding fathers, and its place in the history of Scottish education.

“As a former pupil I welcome this history of a school that means so much to many. It is an informative and meticulously researched history of an island school that has been the springboard for the many islanders who went on to make their mark on the world. In addition, the book also reflects the increasing involvement of the school in the wider life of its community, especially in the development of Gaelic Medium Education. A fitting tribute to the Nicolson Institute as it celebrates its 150th anniversary.” - Professor Matthew Maciver, former Chief Executive of the General Teaching Council

All royalties from this book will be donated to The Nicolson Institute.