Historical information

Personal album or diary dating from the latter half of the nineteenth century, bound in blue covers with gold leaf decoration. The volume contains handwritten poems, anecdotes and song lyrics, with text written predominantly in German. Dried flowers have been placed throughout the book, reflecting its use as a personal keepsake and record of family or social connections.

Marcus Ward & Co. was a major Belfast and London publishing, stationery, printing and bookbinding firm that operated from 1833 until 1899. It was founded in Belfast by Marcus Ward and became internationally known for high-quality stationery, greeting cards, calendars, illustrated books and decorative albums. The company maintained premises in both Belfast and London