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Darien chest

Darien chest

Lee Randall writes about this chest associated with Scotland's failed venture to colonise Panama. The chest is on display in the Kingdom of the Scots gallery on Level 1.

"I have a cunning plan," said William Paterson

Empty like the Whimsical Projector’s boasts? Climb inside. See? I’m filled with the hopes of a nation, ferocious underdog pride, dreams of independence, bought for £5 and £5 and £5 eked out by the battle-scarred, the wind-blistered and the work-weary poor. I overflow with patriotism – and greed. 

Admire my mechanism, intricate as betrayal. 

Cast iron, like his promises, I stink of blood.

About the author

Lee Randall

Lee Randall is a journalist with the Scotsman who specialises in interviewing celebrities – everyone from Andrew O’Hagan to Celia Imrie.

“In my secret ‘other’ life, I am a museum curator.”

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Darien chest

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  • Kingdom of the Scots

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Creation story

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National Museums Scotland, Scottish Charity, No. SC 011130