Recently we were contacted by a researcher looking for any books we may have kept from Rev. William Turner, who was our minister from 1782-1841, also a prominent anti-slavery campaigner, and one of the founders of the Newcastle Lit and Phil. In his words: “Would it be plausible that a Unitarian-ordained pastor in the 19th century would decline to use the title ‘Reverend’? I am trying to locate a ‘William Turner’ bookplate, from a book belonging to the Rev. William Turner. I believe his character was unassuming, so I think it is possible that he declined to have ‘Rev.’ engraved on his bookplate!”

Unfortunately we do not have any of Rev. Turner’s books (they were most likely kept by his family), but we were sent through this photograph of the bookplate! The researcher is continuing his inquiries with the Unitarian History society and Tyne & Wear Archives. If we receive any more information we will share it here!