SCOTLAND'S PRINTING INDUSTRY HERITAGE

The Scottish Printing Archival Trust (SPRAT) was formed in 1988 to conserve "knowledge and examples of Scotland's printing heritage for the benefit of the public and print/media education." The Trust promotes interest in the history of the Scottish printing industry, which is one of Scotland's oldest. It does not hold any archival collections itself, but works with various institutions to ensure that printing archives are not lost.

CURRENT PROJECT - for up-to-date news of this project, click here. Our appeal leaflet can be downloaded from this link

We are currently working with the National Museum of Scotland to preserve the Cossar Press which printed the Strathearn Herald in Crieff from its first installation in 1907 at David Philips Printers in Comrie Street, until 28 March 1991. A clip of its last run can be seen here. The 'Cossar Press' was developed by Tom Cossar of the Clydebank firm, John Cossar Ltd. This machine combined the simplicity and economy of a flat bed press, printing direct from type onto a reel of newsprint. It is believed that the machine in Crieff is the last example of its kind left. There is more background to the history of the press here.

Obviously to move and preserve such a huge, historically important and unique item requires much careful planning, time, effort, finance. The Trust is launching a major fundraising effort in support of this project. Donations of any amount would be very welcome: see the appeal leaflet or contact the Honorary Secretary for more details. Cheques should be made payable to 'Scottish Printing Archival Trust' and marked 'Cossar Press Project' on the back.

If you would like to know more about Scotland's place in printing history, the Trust has published five books on the history of Scotland's printing industry: four books in the series, A Reputation for Excellence, covering local histories of printing; a pamphlet, published to celebrate the 500th anniversary of Scotland's printing industry; and, in association with Graphic Enterprise Scotland, Mechanical to digital in Scotland by Professor John Gennard, charting the 100 year history of the Scottish print employers' organisation. You can download an order form for all Trust publications.

This website is currently being updated and reorganised. Please bear with us.

Site last updated: 14 May 2012