Harry Lauder walking sticks sale

A pair of walking sticks once owned by legendary Scots entertainer Sir Harry Lauder have gone on display ahead of an auction next week.

The two crooked briar walking sticks were taken all over the world by the kilt-clad music hall star at the height of his fame.

They are thought to have been crafted in the late 19th Century and Sir Harry used them until his death in 1950.

The sticks were bought by entertainer Jimmy Logan in 1966.

Both sticks are contained in a case, with the inscription: "Sir Harry Lauder's crooked sticks (famous Scottish Minstrel 1870 - 1950) acquired by Jimmy Logan OBE from Lauder Ha' 1966".

Valued at between £800 and £1,200, they will be sold by Lyon and Turnbull auctioneers on Wednesday.

'Very distinctive'

Victoria Crake, antiques director for Lyon and Turnbull, said: "We're expecting interest from buyers who are interested in music hall and interested in Harry Lauder. But it is also possible that walking stick collectors will be interested.

"They are very distinctive, and were something of a trademark for Harry Lauder and are very associated with him specifically.

"They were probably made in the late 19th century, although we don't know if they were made specifically for him. However, we do know that he was given walking sticks by people who came across him."

Sir Harry, born in Portobello in Edinburgh, worked in a flax mill and coal mine to support his family before crafting out a career in showbusiness, writing famous tunes such as Roamin in the Gloamin' and I Love a Lassie.

He performed before King Edward VII in 1908 and appeared in the United States 25 times between 1909 and 1932.

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