A British engineer funded 40 paintings for a museum — but it came with an unusual condition that's still on display today
When people donate large sums to institutions, they sometimes ask for something in return, though it is not always what you’d expect. That was the case in 1919 when James Cowan Smith made a significant contribution to a Scottish museum. As reported by Atlas Obscura on May 9, 2022, his request still surprises a lot of visitors today, often bringing a quiet smile to the ones who have their own furry friends they hold close to their hearts.
Back in 1919, James Cowan Smith donated £55,000 to the National Gallery of Scotland, an amount that was considered enormous at the time. However, his contribution came with two heartfelt conditions. He requested that the gallery care for his dog after his passing and ensure that a painting of his previous dog would always remain on display. It was a deeply personal way of turning love into something lasting. In fact, it was something most pet parents would understand, and perhaps even wish for, if they had the means to do the same.
The National Gallery of Scotland honored the agreement. His dog was looked after, and the painting of Callum found a permanent place within the museum. Painted by John Emms, an artist known for his lifelike animal portraits, the artwork continues to draw attention. Over time, it has become more than just a painting because it stands as a lasting reminder of a bond that refused to fade.
The story got some media attention and was later posted by @historic, an Instagram page known for sharing entertaining historical content. And the post was filled with an overwhelming amount of users talking about their own pets, while praising a century-old dog as if it were their own. For example, @renana_emma said, "I’d donate for that too, my dog should be admired in a museum". While @daimyorenneko commented, "Now I know what to do with my estate". Many are even expressing interest in going to see the painting one day. @anne.f48's said, "I would love to see this beautiful portrait, such a sweet boy".
While some stories about pets leave you emotional, other stories show how that same love can turn into something unexpectedly funny. That was the case during George H.W. Bush Sr.’s time at the White House, when his dog Ranger became everyone’s favorite. The staff adored him, but all that extra attention came with a problem. Ranger had gained weight, and the president decided to step in with a memo that no one saw coming. It opened with, “This is an all-points bulletin from the President.”
What followed made it even better. Bush wrote, “Recently, Ranger was put on a weight reduction program. Either that program succeeds, or we enter Ranger in the Houston Fat Stock Show as a Prime Hereford.” He went on to ask staff not to feed him at all, turning it into a full-blown “pledge.” The message was clear, but the humor made it unforgettable. For pet lovers, whether it shows up in tears or laughter, that bond always runs deep.
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