Elizabeth Grant (née Robbie) was well known to Queen Victoria. The queen would visit Grant’s house on the Balmoral estate to take tea. The death of Mrs Grant on 29 November 1887 moved the queen to write in her journal: ‘Got the sad news that poor good Mrs Grant … had passed away early this morning. I can hardly realise it. We have known her for 39 years. She was always so friendly & delighted to see us, & such a good excellent woman.’

John Grant was the Head Forester on the Balmoral estate for over 26 years. He had previously been photographed by Wilson in 1861 when he appeared with his wife and seven children. An inscription on Crathie Kirk wall praises the faithful service of John Grant and his wife, who were ‘much beloved’ by the queen and the royal family.