Aberdeen Town Drum
Date18th Century
Object NameDrum
Mediummetal (zinc, copper alloy), wood, hide, rope
ClassificationsCivic
DimensionsUpper wooden hoop: 52cm
Lower wooden hoop: 50cm
Height: 48cm
Lower wooden hoop: 50cm
Height: 48cm
AcquisitionPresented in 1935 by Aberdeen Town Council.
LocationView by Appointment - Aberdeen Treasure Hub
Object numberABDMS083963
About MeTown drum bearing Bon Accord arms. The drum is made of copper alloy sheet with the repousse-worked and enamelled coat of arms of the city soldered in to one side. At the upper and lower edges are hoops of painted wood, which are strung together with rope. The original drum skins are present but were torn and have been repaired.This is one of only two surviving examples of town drums in Aberdeen. The design of the coat of arms on the drum, in particular the leopard supporters of the main armorial bearings indicate it may date to the 18th, if not the 17th century. At this date, it would have been used to escort condemned people to execution, and would have been associated with the Jacobite rebellions. As such the drum is an unparalleled and unique part of Aberdeen's cultural heritage.
More About Me
Once used to escort condemned people to their execution, can you imagine how haunting the sound of these roaring drums must have been in these last moments?
c. 1800
c. 1900
c. 1890s (Possibly)
City of Aberdeen District Council
