Historic Environment Scotland takes over as heritage body

As of today, the new merged body of Historic Environment Scotland takes over from the Royal Commission on the Ancient and Historic Monuments of Scotland and Historic Scotland as Scotland's national heritage body. Here's the announcement:

Welcome to Historic Environment Scotland

Historic Environment Scotland is the new lead public body established to investigate, care for and promote Scotland’s historic environment, and takes up its full statutory role from 1st October 2015. Created by the Historic Environment Scotland Act 2014, the new body incorporates and will build on the strengths and expertise of Historic Scotland and the Royal Commission on the Ancient and Historical Monuments of Scotland (RCAHMS) who have been managing and recording the historic environment for over a century.

Historic Environment Scotland will lead and enable delivery of Our Place in Time, Scotland’s first ever strategy for the historic environment, which sets out how our historic environment will be carefully managed to deliver real and increasing benefits to Scotland’s people. The success of this strategy will ensure our diverse historic environment is cared for and protected, understood, valued, enjoyed and enhanced now and for future generations.

We are already developing our Corporate Plan 2016-19, demonstrating how the new organisation will meet the expectations of stakeholders. We will be launching the plan for public consultation in November.

This is an exciting new era for Scotland’s historic environment and we look forward to your support as we explore the challenges and opportunities ahead.

The full announcement, and other statements, can be found in the body's newsletter at http://us5.campaign-archive1.com/?u=76aeda34e6e524553f9f38500&id=359cbf27c1&e=a5dfe4fb65. There is no new website as yet, so keep an eye out at www.historic-scotland.gov.uk/historicenvironmentscotland for further news.

Chris

For details on my genealogy guide books, including my recently released Discover Irish Land Records and Down and Out in Scotland: Researching Ancestral Crisis, please visit http://britishgenes.blogspot.co.uk/p/my-books.html. My Pinterest account is at https://www.pinterest.com/chrismpaton/.

Update on Historic Scotland/RCAHMS merger

From Historic Environment Scotland, the new organisation being created by the merger of Historic Scotland and RCAHMS:

Historic Environment Scotland Board Progress

Since its establishment in February, the HES Board, led by Jane Ryder OBE, is making good progress with the creation of the new organisation. The Board has been focussing on what is essential for 1st October when HES takes full powers, including all staff being transferred to the single body, agreeing the governance framework with the Scottish Government, the introduction of new regulations for heritage management, and the signing-off of the scheme of delegation which will establish how HES will manage the Properties in Care on behalf of Scottish Ministers.

Strategic priorities for the new organisation include establishing a new organisational identity and the development of the new corporate plan 2016-19 which will be open to public consultation later in the year.

Some of you may be aware of the recent recruitment campaign for the role of Chief Executive. Whilst we are disappointed not to be able to make a permanent appointment at this stage, this will not have any adverse impact on our plans for the new organisation. We are now looking to appoint an interim CEO who will work with the Board through this transition period and beyond, whilst also looking to secure a long term appointment, to be part of this exciting new chapter for the heritage sector.

Further details on progress will be accessible at http://www.historic-scotland.gov.uk/historicenvironmentscotland.htm.

(With thanks to the Historic Scotland and RCAHMS joint newsletter)

Chris

For details on my genealogy guide books, including my recently released Discover Irish Land Records and Down and Out in Scotland: Researching Ancestral Crisis, please visit http://britishgenes.blogspot.co.uk/p/my-books.html.

Scotland's CANMORE database relaunched

The online catalogue of the Royal Commission on the Ancient and Historical Monuments of Scotland, entitled CANMORE, has been relaunched at http://canmore.org.uk. The database contains a wealth of information on archaeology, buildings, industrial and maritime heritage.

Meanwhile, the latest Historic Scotland and RCAHMS joint newsletter has confirmed that the date on which its replacement body, Historic Environment Scotland, will take effect is October 1st 2015.

Further developments from the HES can be followed at www.historic-scotland.gov.uk/historicenvironmentscotland.htm.

Chris

The latest British GENES podcast is available at http://britishgenes.blogspot.co.uk/p/podcasts.html. For details on my latest book Down and Out in Scotland: Researching Ancestral Crisis, and my other genealogy guide books, please visit http://britishgenes.blogspot.co.uk/p/my-books.html.

Chief Executive sought for new Scottish heritage body

From Historic Scotland:

Chief Executive sought for new lead public body for Scotland’s historic environment

A Chief Executive is being sought for a brand new lead public body for Scotland’s historic environment.

Historic Environment Scotland (HES), established by the Historic Environment Scotland Act 2014, brings together two organisations - Historic Scotland and the Royal Commission on the Ancient and Historical Monuments of Scotland (RCAHMS).

The new organisation will be the lead public body for the historic environment in Scotland, working to deliver the Scottish Government’s Historic Environment Strategy “Our Place in Time”.

The successful candidate will lead an organisation with responsibilities ranging from looking after over 345 properties in care to having a statutory role as a regulator and advisor to ministers, to holding one of the largest photographic collections in the world. They will also lead a team of archaeologists, craftspeople, conservators and historians amongst many others, to help manage, celebrate and promote Scotland’s unique historic environment.

The new organisation will come into effect from October of this year, with a board now in place, headed up by Chair, Jane Ryder OBE.

Jane Ryder, OBE, Chair of Historic Environment Scotland, said:

“The new role as a lead public body focusses on working with, and enabling others, as part of a more collective approach. That requires crossing some conventional barriers and some creative thinking, including how we can engage with others, so that the collective approach that is laid out in ‘Our Place in Time’ can be realised.

“As the first Chief Executive of HES, the successful candidate will have a unique opportunity to be involved in the creation of a new organisation which will play a lead role in shaping the historic environment in Scotland, and in the lives of Scottish people and visitors alike, for decades to come.

“We believe there is a no more exciting and challenging role for anyone interested in Scotland’s history and in the development of modern Scotland, and look forward to hearing from candidates.”

Applications are now being welcomed with recruitment open until 18th May. For further information visit
http://www.aspenpeople.co.uk/vacancies/vacancy.php?id=225 http://www.s1jobs.com/apply/jump/570806790.html

Chris

For details on my latest book Down and Out in Scotland: Researching Ancestral Crisis, and my other genealogy guide books please visit http://britishgenes.blogspot.co.uk/p/my-books.html. To commission me for genealogical research, please visit my research site at www.scotlandsgreateststory.co.uk.

Historic Scotland properties opening this April

From Historic Scotland (www.historic-scotland.gov.uk):

Historic sites’ doors spring open for visitors

One of the Lothian’s most well-known historical sites will re-open its doors next month (1 April).

Crichton Castle, near Pathhead in Midlothian, is one of over 30 Historic Scotland properties across Scotland that will be reopening to the public after the winter months.

Built as the lordly residence of the Crichtons and later home to the earls of Bothwell, the castle is notable for its stunning 16th century courtyard facade.

Across the country, Historic Scotland’s seasonal staff are back at their posts and ready to welcome visitors, from Kisimul Castle in the Western Isles, known as the ‘Castle on the Sea’, to Smailholm Tower in the Borders.

Susan Loch, Head of Visitor Operations and Community Engagement at Historic Scotland said: “Our seasonal sites include castles, abbeys, churches and museums and it’s always exciting when they reopen after the long winter months. With longer days and warmer weather, spring is the perfect time to explore properties such as Crichton Castle and take advantage of the truly stunning sites we have across Scotland. No matter where you are in Scotland, history is never too far away.”

Properties opening on Wednesday 1 April include:

• Lochleven Castle, near Kinross, where Mary Queen of Scots had the most traumatic year of her life – imprisoned and forced to abdicate, she managed to escape after a year of being held there
• Hermitage Castle in the Borders, with its history of intrigue, murders, trysts, torture, and treason.
• Cambuskenneth Abbey, near Stirling, once where Robert the Bruce held his parliament, now accessed across a field (watch out for roaming cattle)
• Kinnaird Head Castle Lighthouse and Museum, Fraserburgh, which is still in working order and offers a challenging climb

For further information on opening hours, access and locations, visit: www.historic-scotland.gov.uk

(With thanks to Grant Thomson)

Chris

For details on my latest book Down and Out in Scotland: Researching Ancestral Crisis, and my other genealogy guide books please visit http://britishgenes.blogspot.co.uk/p/my-books.html. To commission me for genealogical research, please visit my research site at www.scotlandsgreateststory.co.uk.

Antonine Wall app to be developed for 2016

One from Historic Scotland (www.historic-scotland.gov.uk) for all you Romans out there...!

App to be created for Antonine Wall visitors

Visitors to the Antonine Wall (www.antoninewall.org) will have the chance to interact with it in a whole new way, thanks to the introduction of a cutting-edge app from Germany.

A collaboration between Historic Scotland, one of several partners who look after the Wall, and partner bodies in Germany will see an interactive app developed for the ancient structure by April 2016. The app uses augmented reality technology to help visitors explore the World Heritage Site, which stretches some 60km across the Scottish Central Belt.

In the spirit of international relations, the development of the Antonine Wall app has only been made possible by the generous donation of data from the Bavarian Savings Bank Foundation and the Bavarian museums service, who created an earlier similar app in Germany, which allows visitors to access information on two parts of the Roman frontier in Bavaria. Historic Scotland are utilising the technology designed for this original app as the platform on which to base their updated Antonine Wall version.

The purpose of both apps is to demonstrate to visitors what the frontier sites would have looked like when they were in operation, applying augmented reality to bring these sites back to life.

The Antonine Wall app will draw on 3D laser scanning work carried out by the Scottish Ten Project, along with new scans and interactive 3D models of museum artefacts taken from the Wall, to give visitors a better idea of how points of interest such as the fort at Rough Castle, or the bath house at Bar Hill, would have looked when the Wall operated as a frontier.

Content will be commissioned and developed by Historic Scotland and the five local authorities along the line of the Wall: East Dunbartonshire, Falkirk, Glasgow City, North Lanarkshire and West Dunbartonshire Councils. The intention is to work with local museums to scan artefacts from the wall in order to create an accurate representation of what life was like, which visitors will be able to experience first-hand.

The collaboration agreement between Historic Scotland and the German partners was signed at Edinburgh Castle by senior staff from each of the organisations, including Barbara Cummins, Director of Heritage Management at Historic Scotland. She said: “Signing this agreement is a significant step forward, not just in digitally interpreting the Antonine Wall, but in fostering strong working partnerships with international colleagues. We are grateful to our colleagues in Germany for generously allowing us to use the technology they have developed, and look forward to further collaboration in the future.”

Dr Ingo Krueger, Executive Member of the Board at the Bavarian Savings Bank Foundation said: “We are very pleased, that the technical platform jointly developed with the Landesstelle for die nichtstaatlichen Museen in Bayern receives international recognition. A holistical interpretation system for the world heritage Roman Borders would be a great goal in European cultural cooperation."

Dr Christof Fluegel of the Non-Governmental Museums, Bavaria said: “We highly appreciate this new collaboration with Historic Scotland to enhance an attractive interpretation approach for our common World Heritage.”

The first version of the app will be available for both i-phone and Android by April 2016.

Virtual reconstruction of Bar Hill Roman Fort, modelled using aerial and terrestrial laser scan data with 

input from a panel of archaeology experts (Centre for Digital Documentation and Visualisation LLP)

(With thanks to Paul Spence)

Chris

For details on my latest book Down and Out in Scotland: Researching Ancestral Crisis, and my other genealogy guide books please visit http://britishgenes.blogspot.co.uk/p/my-books.html. To commission me for genealogical research, please visit my research site at www.scotlandsgreateststory.co.uk.

Memories of Maritime Leith project

From Historic Scotland (www.historic-scotland.gov.uk):

Memories of Edinburgh’s maritime past explored in new project

A unique local community project has captured a series of personal stories, shedding new light on the rich history of Scotland’s once bustling chief port of Leith.

The Memories of Maritime Leith project saw members of the local Leith community invited to share their own personal tales and memories of the area, which was once the focus of the seafaring community for centuries.

Over a number of months, the project saw four residents of Leith share their own accounts, memories and experiences of the city’s nautical history, inspired by objects held at Trinity House Maritime Museum – once the former headquarters of the Incorporation of Masters and Mariners. The collection at Trinity House includes a vast array of objects and special items from naval history, from navigational instruments and models of ships to furniture, maps and even a 200-year-old harpoon.

These stories charting the memories of four ordinary people, have now been made into four special short-length films, capturing new insights into Edinburgh’s seafaring past.

The digital stories, featuring the participants’ memoirs are paired with personal photographs as well as other images, objects and paintings from the collection at Trinity House. All four short audio stories will be screened at a special event for those involved with the project to celebrate Leith’s maritime heritage and history.

The Memories of Maritime Leith films include:

A Bow-Tow Remembers by Sophia Abrahamsen
From Lerwick to Leith by Stephen Hall
Leith Docks by Ramsay Tubb
All at Sea by Andrew Grant

The Memories of Maritime Leith project was created in partnership with Historic Scotland, The Royal Commission on the Ancient and Historical Monuments of Scotland (RCAHMS) and The Living Memory Association.

The completed films form a learning and educational resource, helping to raise awareness and engagement with Leith’s colourful maritime past. Trinity House will regularly screen the films as part of their community learning programmes and will be shared through talks for community groups and care homes in the area.

Commenting on the project, Craig Fletcher, Senior Learning Manager at Historic Scotland, said: “The Memories of Maritime Leith project engaged with older members of Leith’s community and encouraged them to share their own stories and memories of the area during the height of its maritime past.

“Each of the four films and story-tellers offer a truly unique perspective and insight into a different part of Edinburgh’s nautical heritage, bringing it to life with their own story and personal photographs.

“These digital stories will enable several individual’s personal accounts of Leith’s maritime past to be recorded and shared at a wider level for current and future generations.”

Miles Tubb, Project Coordinator at The Living Memory Association, added: “This community project provided the opportunity for Leith’s residents to revisit a part of their past and share their own individual account of their local community’s heritage with others around them.”

“We hope that people will enjoy hearing their stories first hand, and more about the objects which helped inspire them.”

The Memories of Maritime Leith project was funded by The Historic Scotland Foundation. The films will shortly be made available on the Historic Scotland website and YouTube channel; to learn more please visit: www.historic-scotland.gov.uk/learning or www.youtube.com/historicscotlandtv

(With thanks to Grant Thomson)

Chris

For details on my range of genealogy guide books please visit http://britishgenes.blogspot.co.uk/p/my-books.html. To commission me for genealogical research, please visit my research site at www.scotlandsgreateststory.co.uk.

Historic Environment Scotland Board Announced

From Historic Scotland and RCAMHS:

Historic Environment Scotland Board Announced

Cabinet Secretary for Culture, Europe and External Affairs, Fiona Hyslop has announced the first Chair and board members of Historic Environment Scotland (HES).

Jane Ryder OBE, former Chief Executive of the Office of the Scottish Charities Regulator and Chair of Arts & Business Scotland, will become the first chair of the HES board. She has been appointed for four years and will be joined by nine board members.

• Dr Janet Brennan is Chair of the Scottish Castles Association, conservationist and author.
• Alan Clarke has over 40 years’ experience in tourism, leisure and marketing and retired in September 2014 as CEO of the Northern Ireland Tourist Board.
• Trudi Craggs is qualified as a solicitor in Scotland and is a partner in CMS Cameron McKenna LLP.
• Professor David Gaimster is Director of The Hunterian at the University of Glasgow.
• Andrew Holmes qualified as a civil engineer and has worked in a variety of public sector posts dealing with planning, technical and property issues, retiring as Director of City Development for Edinburgh City Council in 2008.
• Dr Coinneach Maclean trained as an archaeologist and was Deputy Chief Executive of the National Trust for Scotland.
• Dr Fiona McLean is Vice Chair of the Board of Governors for the University of the Highlands and Islands.
• Dr Paul Stollard is an architect who has specialised in the fire safety of buildings for over 30 years. He has taught architectural design and history in a number of universities.
• Dr Ken Thomson took up his role as Principal of Forth Valley College in August 2013 following six years as Depute Principal.

Ms Hyslop said: “Jane brings with her immense experience in setting up a new body from her time with the Office of the Scottish Charity Regulator and in-depth knowledge of Scotland’s museum and historical assets. The new board contains the breadth and strength of the skills and knowledge required to make the most of Scotland’s rich heritage.

“The appointment of the Board is a major milestone in the creation of the new public body to lead on the delivery of Our Place in Time, Scotland’s first strategy for the historic environment.

“As well as delivering on our commitment to public service reform by creating a single public body for Scotland’s historic environment, I am pleased that for the first time all of the work carried out by the bodies will be set within a single strategic framework.

“I have been really impressed by the efforts of the staff in both organisations in getting us to this point in the journey, and I very much look forward to working with Jane and the new board to take forward this exciting and ambitious agenda.”

The new Chair, Jane Ryder, said: “It is a huge privilege to be the first chair of Historic Environment Scotland. The opportunities identified by Our Place in Time and its shared vision, the expectations placed on HES and the skill and enthusiasm of the staff who will come together to form that body all add up to an exciting time for the historic environment.

“I look forward to working with my fellow board members and the excellent staff of the two existing bodies to make the ambitious vision set out in Our Place in Time a reality.”

The new Board will start its work on 1st April and be given all its powers on 1st October 2015. Full details about the appointments can be found on the Scottish Government website at http://news.scotland.gov.uk/News/Historic-Environment-Scotland-Board-1507.aspx.

Chris

For details on my range of genealogy guide books please visit http://britishgenes.blogspot.co.uk/p/my-books.html. To commission me for genealogical research, please visit my research site at www.scotlandsgreateststory.co.uk.

The Nation/Live exhibition at Duff House in Banff

From Historic Scotland (www.historic-scotland.gov.uk):

Explore ‘The Nation//Live’ at Duff House
New exhibition opens at Duff House

An exhibition which explores a number of pivotal moments in Scotland’s history is to open at Duff House in Banff.

The Nation//Live is a pioneering project by the National Galleries of Scotland which saw community groups in five regions across the country paired with a lead artist to explore a particular theme within the context of Scotland’s past.

Historical events, spanning themes including work, roots, union, faith and civil war, were tackled by locals of all ages from Skye, Inverness, Dumfries, Clydebank and across the central belt. Working closely with professional artists and drawing inspiration from historic works of art held in the Scottish National Portrait Gallery’s collection, community groups and individuals were challenged to create their own contemporary interpretation of some of these key moments, incorporating their own personal memories and stories into their final pieces.

The resulting artworks created will be on display alongside reproductions of works of art from the national art collection which inspired these modern interpretations. These new artworks offer an insight into how contemporary Scots connect with Scottish history.

The two-year-long arts project also saw the involvement of several schools across the different regions. Third and fourth year pupils at Keith Grammar School in Moray, collaborated with Knockando Woollmill to create their own woollen panels, which were then joined together to illustrate their local environment and surroundings. Whilst fourth year pupils at Inverness’ Millburn Academy crafted aluminium medals that represented their own personal identity.

The Nation//Live also spans a number of multi-media platforms, including works that make use of video, music, performance and sculpture.

The centrepiece of the exhibition is a film, created by renowned Scottish filmmaker Daniel Warren, that captures all five elements of the collaboration and features all the community groups involved.

This is the first time that the exhibition has been shown outside of Edinburgh, having previously been on show at the Scottish National Portrait Gallery. It is being brought to Duff House by The National Galleries of Scotland in partnership with Historic Scotland.
Commenting on the exhibition at Duff House, Lorna Ewan, Head of Head of Visitor Experience, Content and Learning for Historic Scotland, who operate the House said: “We’re pleased to welcome this flagship exhibition to Duff House which marks the first in a series of an exciting programme of events at the House over the year ahead.

“The Nation//Live is a truly unique project that explores history with a modern twist and we hope that our visitors will enjoy the pairing of traditional artworks with those created through the project by communities across Scotland.”

Schools can access Duff House and its collections through Historic Scotland’s free education visits scheme. Visiting the exhibition will enable students to gain an insight into Scotland’s past and how it is viewed today through these updated art works, inspired by the national art collection.

Senior Outreach Officer for the National Galleries of Scotland, Robin Baillie, added: “The Nation//Live exhibition is the result of a two-year-long project, the results of which showcase a contemporary view on Scotland’s past.

“Following a successful opening in Edinburgh, it’s a great opportunity to share these unique interpretations in the striking surrounds of Duff House, which we hope are enjoyed by visitors to the House.”

The exhibition, which opens to the public on Thursday 29th January, will run until Sunday 15th March 2015 and is included within the admission price to the house.

(With thanks to Grant Thomson)

Chris

For details on my range of genealogy guide books please visit http://britishgenes.blogspot.co.uk/p/my-books.html. To commission me for genealogical research, please visit my research site at www.scotlandsgreateststory.co.uk.

Historic Environment Scotland will replace RCAMHS and Historic Scotland

The new merged body to replace the Royal Commission for the Ancient and Historical Monuments of Scotland (RCAMHS) and Historic Scotland will be called Historic Environment Scotland. The latest details for the merger are available via the two organisations' joint newsletter at http://rcahms.cmph.org/o/bRYMgEgqU9g, along with details of Heritage Lottery Funding for the new Scotland's Urban Past five year project from RCAMHS.

(With thanks to RCAMHS/Historic Scotland)

Chris

Now available for UK research is the new second edition of the best selling Tracing Your Family History on the Internet: A Guide for Family Historians, whilst my new book British and Irish Newspapers is also now out. And FindmyPast - please reinstate the original Scottish census citations on your new site.

Home Front Legacy 1914-18 - Scotland

News of the Scottish contribution to a WW1 archaeology project:

VOLUNTEERS SOUGHT ACROSS SCOTLAND TO HELP FIND FORGOTTEN HISTORY OF THE FIRST WORLD WAR

Communities across Scotland are being urged to play their part in a vital project which will unlock the secrets of the First World War and ensure their place in history is recorded for future generations.

This week sees the start of Home Front Legacy 1914-18, a project on which the Council for British Archaeology (CBA), Historic Scotland, English Heritage, Cadw and partners across the UK are working together to record the physical remains of the war on home territory.

The project is calling on volunteers from across Scotland to step forward to help survey, research and record buildings and sites which played a key role before, during and after the conflict. This is the only community engagement project recording physical remains from the First World War, working with partners across the heritage sector in the UK.

Home Front Legacy 1914-18 will allow communities across Scotland to build on a desk-based audit of all existing First World War records undertaken by Dr Gordon Barclay for Historic Scotland and the Royal Commission on the Ancient and Historical Monuments of Scotland (RCAHMS).The audit was an extremely valuable piece of work and saw almost 1,000 records of buildings and places created or updated. This was more than triple the number expected at the outset, with previously unknown information around strategic defences, buildings and structures coming to light.

The audit, available at www.rcahms.gov.uk/firstworldwar, provides greater detail than before about the part played by communities across Scotland a century ago. We hope the Home Front Legacy project will encourage volunteers to build on the audit by visiting, surveying, recording and researching these sites more fully, as well as discovering other buildings and sites associated with the First World War.

Dan Snow, President of the Council for British Archaeology (CBA), called for volunteers to join up for the Home Front Legacy campaign. He said: “Our aim is to record and preserve vulnerable sites, buildings and structures – camps, drill halls, factories and observation posts for example, before they and the stories they bear witness to are lost forever. Our volunteers will be scouring the nation’s towns, villages, countryside and beaches to track down local First World War places that are just not in the records. They’ll upload observations on what they find to a specially designed app along with photographs and historic documents which will appear on an online map to open up the impact of the war on our landscape for everyone.”

Fiona Hyslop, Cabinet Secretary for Culture and External Affairs said: “I welcome the Home Front Legacy campaign as it will increase our understanding of the vital role Scotland’s communities played in the conflict. We hope it will also encourage people to engage with the physical heritage from that period that still surround us.

“Even though much of the First World War is well documented, we know there is still a lot to learn from the conflict and the role our communities played in it and I believe this campaign will go some way to completing our picture. I would urge as many people as possible get involved in this campaign and help us to continue unlocking the secrets of Scotland’s places during this period.”

Eila Macqueen, Director of Archaeology Scotland which is also participating in the project, added: “This is such a valuable and exciting project which will increase our existing understanding of the sites and buildings connect to the First World War. As we prepare to remember the events of 100 years ago there has never been a more appropriate time for communities across the country to get involved in this part of our history. We look forward to working with the other project partners in making Home Front Legacy a success.”

How to Get Involved
Sign up on the Council for British Archaeology’s Home Front Legacy website to access the online recording toolkit, guidance and resources, including an app for recording sites in the field and a map and photo gallery of newly recorded sites. www.homefrontlegacy.org.uk Twitter @homefrontlegacy
Facebook Home Front Legacy Flickr.com Home Front Legacy

(With thanks to Paul Spence)

Chris

My latest genealogy books are Tracing Your Family History on the Internet (2nd ed), Discover Scottish Civil Registration Records, and Tracing Your Irish Family History on the Internet. My next Pharos course is Scotland 1750-1850: Beyond the OPRs, which commences May 14th 2014, 5 weeks, price £45.99.

Commemorative plaques to mark Year of Natural Scotland

From Historic Scotland (www.historic-scotland.gov.uk):

Nominations sought for Commemorative Plaques to mark Year of Natural Scotland

People are being asked to put forward their nominations for the historic figures they would like to see honoured in the second year of the Commemorative Plaques Scheme for Scotland. This year’s theme is to celebrate the Year of Natural Scotland.

The call for nominations was launched by Fiona Hyslop, Cabinet Secretary for Culture and External Affairs.

She said: “The launch of the Commemorative Plaque Scheme for Scotland has been very well received. The theme for the second year is inspired by the Year of Natural Scotland, celebrating Scotland’s outstanding natural beauty and culture.

“Scotland is known around the world for its outstanding landscape. We have a wealth of historic figures whose incredible achievements have been inspired by Scotland’s stunning natural and historic settings from conservationists to artists, writers, architects, chefs and teachers.

“This scheme will ensure that all of these exceptional individuals are given the recognition they deserve and their accomplishments appreciated by future generations.”

There will be a maximum of 12 plaques awarded every year and these will be decided by an independent academic panel, still to be announced.

People are invited to submit their nominations for the historic figures they would like to put forward by filling in an application form on Historic Scotland’s website - www.historic-scotland.gov.uk/commemorativeplaques - with up to 1,000 words on two questions explaining why their chosen person is appropriate for a Commemorative Plaque.

The closing date for applications is 31st December 2013.

(With thanks to Paul Spence)

Chris

My latest book, Discover Scottish Civil Registration Records, is now available from http://www.gould.com.au (print) and http://www.gen-ebooks.com/unlock-the-past.html (ebook), whilst Tracing Your Irish Family History on the Internet is available at http://www.pen-and-sword.co.uk/Tracing-Your-Irish-History-on-the-Internet/p/3889/. My next Pharos Scottish course, Scotland 1750-1850: Beyond the OPRs, starts Nov 13th - see http://pharostutors.com.

RCAHMS and Historic Scotland Merger Bill

The First Minister Alex Salmond has confirmed in the Scottish Parliament today that one of the pieces of legislation to be introduced into the next parliamentary session is the RCAHMS and Historic Scotland Merger Bill. This follows the first announcement of the proposed merger in July 2012.

For more background on the merger process to date see http://www.historic-scotland.gov.uk/index/about/rcahmshsmerger/rcahmshsnews.htm

Chris

My wife Claire is planning to swim from the Scottish island of Cumbrae to the town of Largs on September 14th to raise money for local charity Gillian's Saltire Appeal, providing respite for families affected by cancer (Claire's mum and sister in Ireland have previously come through cancer, whilst my mum, based in England, currently has bladder cancer). Her Just Giving sponsorship page, with further details, is at http://www.justgiving.com/Claire-Paton1. If you can help to sponsor her, even by a wee amount, we'd be very grateful - many thanks!

Mary Queen of Scots exhibition tie in book

From Historic Scotland (www.historic-scotland.gov.uk):

New Historic Scotland book charts the travels of Mary Queen of Scots

A new book written and produced by Historic Scotland is being published today, Friday 28th June 2013 to tie in with the opening of the major Mary Queen of Scots exhibition at the National Museum of Scotland.

Mary Was Here, subtitled ‘Where Mary Queen of Scots went and what she did there’, is a fast-paced and very accessible guide to the travels of Scotland’s most famous historical figure.

Extensively illustrated, it charts Mary’s life from just before her birth at Linlithgow Palace to the months after her execution at Fotheringhay Castle in Northamptonshire.

Andrew Burnet, Publications and Information Manager at Historic Scotland and one of the co-authors said: “Mary Queen of Scots is a key figure in our history who continues to fascinate people from around the world. She has connections with more than 20 Historic Scotland properties including Edinburgh Castle, Stirling Castle, Craigmillar Castle, Lochleven Castle, Castle Campbell, Dumbarton Castle, Dundrennan Abbey and of course, her place of birth, Linlithgow Palace.

“The book is based around specific events on specific dates at specific locations, however its main focus is on Scotland, where Mary travelled widely during her brief reign. It also features plenty of colourful imagery, including superb photography, and more than 120 images from art collections in Scotland, England, France, Spain and Italy.”

The book includes sections on Mary’s childhood in France and her long imprisonment in England. It also looks at key themes such as food and drink, sickness and health, marriages, costume and jewellery.

More than 35 Scottish sites connected with Mary are covered in the book. Additional properties include: Inchmahome Priory, Spynie Palace, Edzell Castle, and Whithorn Priory.

The book will be available from Friday 28 June, retailing at £7.95. It will be for sale at the National Museum throughout the run of the exhibition (until 17th November). It will also be sold at Historic Scotland’s shops at selected sites, including Edinburgh Castle, Stirling Castle, Linlithgow Palace, Dumbarton Castle, Lochleven Castle, Craigmillar Castle, Inchmahome Priory and the Abbey Strand bookshop next to Holyrood Palace in Edinburgh

(With thanks to Paul Spence at Historic Scotland)

Chris

My new book, Tracing Your Irish Family History on the Internet, is now available from Pen and Sword. My Scottish land and church records ebooks are available at http://www.gen-ebooks.com/unlock-the-past.html, whilst my next Pharos Scottish course, Scottish Research Online, starts Sep 4th - see http://pharostutors.com/details.php?coursenumber=102. Time to smash a few brick walls...!

First Celtic High Cross to return to Iona

From Historic Scotland (www.historic-scotland.gov.uk)

Reconstruction of World’s First Celtic High Cross

The world’s first Celtic High Cross, St Oran’s Cross, pictured, dating back to the 8th century, is being reassembled in Selkirk before it is returned to Iona for the celebration of the 1450th anniversary of the arrival of St Columba on the island.

This was the springboard for the spread of Christianity in Scotland; St Columba and his followers arrived from Ireland and established a monastery on Iona in AD 563.

St Oran’s Cross will be re-erected for the first time in centuries in a new display as part of the 1450th anniversary celebrations.

Peter Yeoman, Historic Scotland’s Head of Cultural Heritage said: “The complete cross originally weighed in excess of 1 tonne and was 4.4 metres high. We believe it was commissioned by a King around the mid 700s.

“It is beautifully carved with Biblical scenes and Celtic interlace patterns. Just below the centre of the cross arm is an extremely rare and early image of the Virgin and Child sheltered by the wings of angels.

“This monumental, powerful, and decorative use of the Christian cross had never been seen before anywhere in Western Europe. It’s one of the largest and finest in the collection of early medieval carved stone grave slabs and crosses to be found at Iona Abbey.”

The cross, which was in five pieces, will be re-erected within a specially constructed steel structure designed by Borders based museum mountmaker Richard West.

Historic Scotland’s experts are cleaning, studying and conserving the carved stones before they go back on display in a new exhibition in time for the anniversary in 2013. The agency is also investing in new interpretation and visitor facilities to help visitors fully appreciate Iona Abbey’s fascinating history and the significance of the spectacular carved stone collection.

(With thanks to Paul Spence at Historic Scotland)

Chris

My new book, Tracing Your Irish Family History on the Internet, is now available from Pen and Sword. For my other genealogy books, please visit  http://britishgenes.blogspot.co.uk/p/my-books.html; whilst for my online Scottish based genealogy courses please visit the Pharos Teaching and Tutoring Ltd site.

Scottish blue plaque panel announced

From Historic Scotland (www.historic-scotland.gov.uk):

EXPERT PANEL ANNOUNCED FOR COMMEMORATIVE PLAQUE SCHEME

Historic Scotland has confirmed the membership of the independent panel of experts who will choose the recipients? winners of the Commemorative Plaque Scheme for 2012.

The experts will assess all the nominations submitted before the 12th October deadline and will decide on a maximum of 12 plaques which will be awarded to significant historic figures in Scotland.

The annual Scheme, launched in August by Cabinet Secretary for Culture and External Affairs, Fiona Hyslop will recognise the contribution of recipients to Scottish society through the erection of a plaque on their home where they lived, or the building that was particularly synonymous with their achievements.

The Scheme will have an annual theme. This year’s theme will mark the contribution of figures from the arts and creative fields to coincide with the Year of Creative Scotland 2012.

The panel’s membership represents a broad cross-section of expertise and disciplines who are well placed to decide on the worthy recipients of the Commemorative Plaque Scheme. A new membership panel of experts will be selected each year in order to reflect the annual theme

The panel will consist of:

• Jim Tough, Executive Director, The Saltire Society.
• Professor Seona Reid, Director, Glasgow School of Art
• Dr Fiona Watson, Historian/Broadcaster, Dundee University
• Professor Graham Caie, Vice President, The Royal Society of Edinburgh
• Dr Jenny Wormald, Historian, University of Edinburgh
• Dr Gary West, Historian/Musician/Broadcaster, Senior Lecturer in Scottish Ethnology and Scottish Historical Studies

Fiona Hyslop said: “I am pleased that we have such an esteemed panel of experts to assess the applications for the Commemorative Plaque Scheme.

“The plaques will celebrate the lives of the people who have made an important contribution to Scotland’s fascinating history and heritage. I am sure that the expert panel will have a challenging task on their hands considering Scotland has a wealth of creative talent in a wide range of disciplines.”

Nominations for the Commemorative Plaques for 2012 have closed.

(With thanks to Paul Spence at Historic Scotland)

Chris

Having a Christmas present crisis?! Check out my range of genealogy books at http://britishgenes.blogspot.co.uk/p/my-books.html - perfect for the family historian's Christmas stocking...!

Free Gretna's munitions town booklet

From Historic Scotland (www.historic-scotland.gov.uk):

Gretna’s war time origins revealed in new Historic Scotland publication

Gretna Green may be best known for romance and weddings, but the nearby town of Gretna would not exist if it hadn’t been for the First World War, a new publication from Historic Scotland reveals.

“Gretna – A Munitions Town” shows how a war time decision to build a factory to meet a shortage of artillery shells led to a frantic building programme to house workers in 1915. The results were remarkable – a complete town for 20,000 people, constructed in two years with a harmonious architectural style unique in Scotland.

A tangible reminder of how people aspired to live in the early part of the 20th century, Gretna today is home to a thriving community. Masterminded by one of Britain’s most influential town planners, Raymond Unwin, the town’s streets and buildings form a lasting legacy, characterised by terraced and semi-detached houses, all in red brick. Some of the most significant buildings have been awarded listed status.

Explained Historic Scotland’s Head of Listing and Designed Landscapes, Elizabeth McCrone: “Gretna was planned as a complete entity, with houses, shops, school, hospital, police station, churches, cinema and other recreational facilities.

“Many of the buildings have interesting architectural details. Some houses have large chimney stacks, a variety of window shapes and prominent gables. The public buildings too are striking, especially the churches. The Church of Scotland has a tall, Italianate square tower, while the former Roman Catholic Church has an unusual Byzantine design in red brick.

“Historic Scotland has recognised the importance of these buildings, by listing several at categories B and C.”

The munitions factory which gave rise to this huge construction project was itself a major undertaking, running for nine miles along the edge of the Solway Firth and consisting of a complex series of buildings and communications systems. Built to produce explosive cordite for bullets and shells, it drew people from all over Britain and beyond - predominantly women, who became known as the Gretna Girls.

The nearby town of Gretna which housed the workers is the surviving legacy of this munitions project. Almost nothing remains of the factory, but in Gretna many of the original buildings remain.

Elizabeth added: “Offering a new approach to urban planning, with self-contained communities, good housing and attractive open spaces, the pattern set at Gretna was to continue in the building of new towns elsewhere in Scotland.”

Visitors to Gretna today can enjoy its predominance of red brick housing, which is unusual in Scottish towns and reflects an English influence. Each street has its own unique decorative features, showing the care that went into the planning of the town. Gretna also hosts one of Scotland’s earliest purpose-built cinemas.

“Gretna – A Munitions Town”, which will be launched on October 23rd, is available free from Historic Scotland as a print booklet, and to download, at www.historic-scotland.gov.uk/gretna. The agency has also produced a video showcasing Gretna’s built heritage, which can be viewed at the same web address.

Chris

Scottish Research Online - 5 weeks online Pharos course, £45.99, taught by Chris Paton from 26 SEP 2012 - see www.pharostutors.com
New book: It's Perthshire 1866 - there's been a murder... www.thehistorypress.co.uk/products/The-Mount-Stewart-Murder.aspx (from June 12th 2012)

Two weeks left for Commemorative Plaques competition submissions

From Historic Scotland (www.historic-scotland.gov.uk)

Two weeks until close of Commemorative Plaques Design Competition

There are just two weeks left for art students across Scotland to submit their designs for the new Commemorative Plaque scheme.

Invitations were issued to all art and design schools in Scotland, to give one of their students the opportunity to create the winning design for the new scheme, recently launched by Fiona Hyslop, Cabinet Secretary for Culture and External Affairs.

The chosen design will be used as the official plaque that will be fixed to homes linked with the historical figures chosen to be honoured by the scheme.

Designs have to be submitted to hs.grants@scotland.gsi.gov.uk by 31 October 2012. The six best designs will then be judged by Historic Scotland, with the final decision being made by Ms Hyslop. The winner will receive £500.00.

Fiona Hyslop said: “The Commemorative Plaque Scheme will honour the historic figures in Scotland who have inspired our country’s history and heritage.

“Scotland is brimming with creative and artistic talent and I am really looking forward to selecting the winning design.”

There is no strict criteria for the design, however students should consider the following when creating their designs:

• The plaque needs to be easily fixed to buildings with screws etc.
• It is expected that the plaque will manufactured in traditional materials.
• The words on the plaque would need to contain the name of the person and the reason for being commemorated.

Entrants should include details of the materials they are proposing, the colour of the plaque and what form of wording they feel is appropriate for the scheme.

People were invited to submit their nominations for the historic figures they would like to put forward for a Commemorative Plaque. The closing date for this year’s nominations closed on 12 October. As the scheme has been launched in the Year of Creative Scotland 2012, nominations for historic figures in Scotland’s arts and creative fields were sought for this year’s scheme, with annual themes being announced each year.

There will be a maximum of 12 plaques awarded each year. These will be decided by an independent academic panel which is still to be announced.

(With thanks to Francis Caine at Historic Scotland)

Chris

Scottish Research Online - 5 weeks online Pharos course, £45.99, taught by Chris Paton from 26 SEP 2012 - see www.pharostutors.com
New book: It's Perthshire 1866 - there's been a murder... www.thehistorypress.co.uk/products/The-Mount-Stewart-Murder.aspx (from June 12th 2012)

Biggar Gasworks open day

From Historic Scotland (www.historic-scotland.gov.uk):

Light up the Town at Biggar Gasworks

Biggar Gasworks, the only preserved gasworks in Scotland, is holding an admission-free open day on Sunday 21st October 2012 from 12:00 pm to 5:00 pm.

Alison Stalker, Historic Scotland’s Assistant Events Manager said: “When you enter Biggar Gasworks you step right back in time and even the coal barrows and shovels remain.

“Come along and meet the local gasman and find out about his daily routine at the gasworks. Hear about the decline of the industry and its effects on the local community.”

Even though the buildings and equipment have been renewed and replaced down the years, almost everything is there – coal sheds, gas retorts, condenser, exhauster, purifiers, gas meter, holders, the office and showroom.

The office/showroom was once the gasman’s house, built in 1858 and is now the oldest part remaining.

Such was the popularity of gas that the works evolved both to meet demand and to keep pace with technology. The gas holders date from 1858 and 1879, and the retort house and purifying equipment from 1914.

By then, the gasman was using 400 tons of coal per year to serve 320 consumers and power over 100 street lights.

Today, Biggar Gasworks is jointly managed as a visitor attraction by Historic Scotland and Biggar Museum Trust (www.biggarmuseumtrust.co.uk).

Last admission to the Gasworks will be at 4:30 pm.

(With thanks to Paul Spence)

Chris

Scottish Research Online - 5 weeks online Pharos course, £45.99, taught by Chris Paton from 26 SEP 2012 - see www.pharostutors.com
New book: It's Perthshire 1866 - there's been a murder... www.thehistorypress.co.uk/products/The-Mount-Stewart-Murder.aspx (from June 12th 2012)

Stanley Mills schools exhibition

From Historic Scotland (www.historic-scotland.gov.uk):

Popular communities project inspires new schools exhibition at Stanley Mills

A new exhibition celebrating a series of themed activity days at Stanley Mills which attracted hundreds of school pupils is to open on Tuesday, October 9th, showcasing creative work inspired by subjects as varied as childhood, water power and manufacturing.

"Living Communities” ran over four days in late August/ early September, drawing more than 600 youngsters to the Perthshire attraction.

"What is Childhood?” allowed the youngsters to compare childhood in the 1930s with modern life, and explored manufacturing and sustainability, while “Waterpower” showcased hydro and renewable energy, and offered music and art workshops.

To help pupils connect with the past, both events featured an opportunity for pupils to meet and question a former mill worker.

Historic Scotland’s Learning Development Officer, Fiona Davidson said: “Schools had the opportunity to choose from a range of themes, to use as context for classroom learning during autumn term.

“The activity days were a huge success, and also encouraged pupils from different schools to work together. The youngsters have used their visits as inspiration for the new exhibition, which draws together the music, art and creative writing reflecting their experiences at the Mill.”

The initiative is a partnership between Historic Scotland, Perth and Kinross Council Creative Learning Network, and Living Communities, a project funded by Perth and Kinross Council, the Gannochy Trust and Education Scotland. Living Communities aims to support schools and communities throughout Perth and Kinross in exploring their local heritage.

The exhibition, at the Mills’ Community Room (free to admission ticket holders, and to pupils involved in the project), runs until October 29th, from Monday to Sunday, 10am till 3pm.


COMMENT: Some of my lot once worked at Stanley Mills, so I took my kids there a few months back - it's well worth the trip!

Chris

Scottish Research Online - 5 weeks online Pharos course, £45.99, taught by Chris Paton from 26 SEP 2012 - see www.pharostutors.com
New book: It's Perthshire 1866 - there's been a murder... www.thehistorypress.co.uk/products/The-Mount-Stewart-Murder.aspx (from June 12th 2012)