Charlesina Macfarlane McNab was born in Glasgow on 12 November 1827. Her father Alexander had been a clerk to McNeel and Sutherland, plumbers in Glasgow, before his death on 1 August 1832. Charlesina was living with her mother Margaret Macfarlane, two brothers, and a sister at 33 Bridge Street, Glasgow at the time of her application.

Principal Duncan Macfarlan of the University of Glasgow provided a testimonial:

Glasgow College, 2 May 1834

I hereby certify that the late Mr Alexr MacNab, a Native of Argyleshire, was Clerk in an Establishment in Glasgow, and that he died of a very short illness in August 1832 leaving a Widow and six Children, all under twelve years of age in extremely destitute circumstances, and altogether unprovided for. The Characters of both parents I believe to be every way unexceptional. D. Macfarlan, Principal.

application

Certificate of birth

letter of recommendation