A NEW acquisition for the Andrew Carnegie Birthplace Museum is the key to remembering an important figure in Dunfermline's history.

The ceremonial key that was presented by Carnegie to the Dunfermline School Board at the handover of the Lauder Technical College in 1899 was spotted at Bowler and Binnie, a local auctioneers.

The purchase was supported by a grant given to the museum by the National Fund for Acquisitions (NFA).

Hazel Williamson, NFA manager, said: “We are delighted to support the acquisition of this presentation key which attests the generosity of this famous philanthropist in his home town and helps to tell the story of today’s Fife College.”

The key symbolises the birth of what is now Fife College. The Lauder Technical College cost Carnegie £12-13,000 but was inspired by his uncle, George Lauder, and his dream and campaigning for a school like the college became.

Robin Sharp, a local historian, said: “George Lauder played a significant role in the upbringing of Andrew Carnegie. He owned and operated a grocer's shop in Dunfermline's High Street. During long walks together, George taught Andrew and his cousin, George Lauder Jr, about nature and how to respect all living things.

"He taught the boys Scottish history and back in the shop the boys would run errands, serve behind the counter, do stocktaking and book-keeping. It gave the boys a great sense of achievement and self-worth.

“The newly-purchased commemorative key will help preserve the memory of George Lauder and the significant role he played in Andrew Carnegie’s life and the many roles he took on in the civic duties of Dunfermline City.”

The key itself is beautifully engraved with the Dunfermline crest and the purpose and people of the ceremonial handover of October 1899 but what truly sets it apart is that this is the first key that the museum has seen that was commissioned by Andrew Carnegie himself.

Museum co-manager Mark Macleod explained: “We are thrilled to add this to the museum’s collection which has the aim of telling Andrew Carnegie’s life and legacy through business, philanthropy and inspire learning in all.

“The collection includes 40 keys, the majority presented to Andrew or Louise, his wife, when they were attending opening events, library dedications or freedom ceremonies. This is the first one we have seen that was commissioned and presented by Andrew to someone else.

"Carnegie invested in the best with jewellers R & W Sorley of Glasgow hallmark stamped on the 1899 key. With Fife College being along the road from the museum, we were very keen to bid on this object and can now employ the key to tell the connections of Carnegie, Lauder and today’s Fife College.”

The birthplace museum is now putting together a temporary exhibition to coincide with the Carnegie Lecture in the museum from Robin Sharp, 'The George Lauder Legacy: Dunfermline’s Unsung Hero' today (Thursday).