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Letter from Alida Spaander to James McBey (Letters and Memorabilia Belonging to James McBey)
Letter from Alida Spaander to James McBey (Letters and Memorabilia Belonging to James McBey)
Letter from Alida Spaander to James McBey (Letters and Memorabilia Belonging to James McBey)

Letter from Alida Spaander to James McBey (Letters and Memorabilia Belonging to James McBey)

Recipient (Newburgh, Scotland, 1883 - 1959)
Date1913
Object NameLetter
Mediumpaper and ink
ClassificationsMcBey
DimensionsLetter: 15 x 1.4cm
Envelope: 7.8 x 12.2cm
AcquisitionPresented in 1988 by Mrs Marguerite McBey.
Copyright© Aberdeen City Council (McBey Collection)
LocationView by Appointment - Aberdeen Treasure Hub
Object numberABDAG008357.23
About MeLetter from Alida Spaander to James McBey dated 22 December 1913 in a postmarked envelope. Alida Spaander was the daughter of Leendert Spaander, who founded the Artist's Hotel, Hotel Spannader, Volendam, Netherlands in 1881. The business began as a cafe but was extended to a hotel and cafe restaurant, Alida took over the business in 1919.

In the letter Alida expresses how happy she was to receive McBey's card and to hear from her old friend again, as it seemed a long time since his last visit. Alida also explains that any previous letters she had written were always returned, so she didn't know what had happened to McBey. She also asks McBey why he did not visit the hotel last summer, and said that if he would probably no longer recognise her. Alida explains that her brother and sister were now married, leaving just herself and another sister living at the hotel.

Alida then explains some changes to the hotel, such as the addition of a motor garage, tells McBey her parents and sister send their kindest regards, and wishes him a merry Christmas and happy New Year.

This object is part of an archive that belonged to Marguerite McBey. As a result of her generosity, Aberdeen Art Gallery holds the largest archive of James McBey's work, including prints, drawings, sketchbooks, oil paintings and memorabilia such as this letter.