Mysterious journal fetches thousands (From Stroud News and Journal)

Mysterious journal fetches thousands

AN 18th Century hand written journal found in a Stroud attic and almost thrown out has been sold at auction for £4,000.

The journal, an account of the destruction of the fortress of Louisbourg in Nova Scotia Canada was written in 1760 by Capt. Muckell of the Royal Corps of Miners.

It detailed the demolition of the fortress captured by the English under the command of General Wolfe in 1758.

The order to destroy the French stronghold had come directly from William Pitt and King George II.

Baffled auctioneers from Stroud Auctions and experts have not been able to confirm how such an item could end up in the area.

After much research and discussion with the Fortress of Louisbourg Museum in Canada the journal went on sale on Wednesday, May 4th with an estimate of £1,200 -1,500.

James Taylor, of Stroud Auctions said: "Although badly damaged and in delicate condition there is a lot of excitement, as such an item rarely comes on the open market."

International bidders and specialists in the UK eagerly left bids and booked phone lines in order to try buy the journal.

"In the end it came down to three phone bidders."

Eventually, a UK based specialist saw off competition from the USA and other English dealers to buy the journal.

"It was a great result for what is really a beautiful piece of English history," said Mr Taylor.

Stroud Auctions hold free valuations at The Old Barn, Bear of Rodborough every Friday and Saturday. Call James on 01453 873800.