Courtyard works near the final hurdle

The Heritage Garden courtyard at Castlehill took another step towards completion over the weekend, with the final hardcore surface being laid between the recently completed paths and dividing walls. The work to clear the area to the rear of the premises was also finished off, as was the final surfacing of the disabled parking area and the main entrance area.

Archaeological programme starts Tuesday 13 July

Our summer programme of archaeological activities will get underway with an evening on Tuesday 13th July from 7pm to 9pm, when local archaeologist Paul Humphreys will explain the importance of pollen in archaeology. The evening will feature opportunities for participants to try some hands-on analysis of pollen samples and comparisons with ancient peat buried samples.

An exciting programme of activities is proposed for the remainder of the season, including plane tabling hut circles, re-surveying Mercers work in Dunnet, recording the Castletown Battery, probing for the chapel of St Coombs, looking for signs of Stangergill Castle, and much more. Ideas from interested people are very welcome.

All our archaeological events involve hands-on participation and are suitable for beginners to experienced alike. Interested in taking part? For further details - contact

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The peats are home and the stack is built

The hard work at the beginning of June has been rewarded with a fine stack of peats, ready for the summer season at Mary Ann's Cottage - see the report on 6 June (below) for further details. Many thanks to everyone who got involved with the process of cutting, setting up, transporting and stacking the peat.

Hard work is a great leveller (well it is with a JCB)

On a gloriously sunny Saturday evening great progress was made in tidying up the ground to the rear of the Castlehill premises. Gordon was centre stage piloting his uncles's JCB, making a great job of levelling the mounds of earth to the north of the building. The area now looks neat and tidy, complementing the rest of the building.

Unfortunately the sun disappeared on Sunday but the mist and rain did not hold up the process of clearing the undergrowth away from the east side of the main building and office annexe. The turf was carefully scraped away with the ditching bucket to reveal the original level from when the steading and dairy were operational. A surprise find was a lovely section of original flagstone floor, the surface worn smooth by the passage of many feet and not a little time.

With the turf removed, further repairs were carried out on the water channel that supplied the waterwheel for the threshing mill in the adjacent building. When works are complete, the flagstone covers of the channel will be exposed end to end, creating a distinctive feature and a reminder of byegone days.

Knit and Natter - Wednesday 23 June, 2 - 3.30 pm

Why not join us for a Knit and Natter at Castlehill Heritage Centre.

Have you stopped knitting since the grandkids got bigger? Would you like to pass on your knitting knowledge but your children or grandchildren are not in the area? Tell us what you think about Northern Loops, a new programme for senior knitters willing to share their skills and knowledge with young people.

Needles and wool provided or bring your own. Coffee and tea provided

Interested in taking part? For further details - contact

Northern Loops - Knit in Public Day - Saturday 12 June

Unique opportunity to take part in national 'Knit in Public Day'. Thurso based 'Stitch 'n' Blether' will be running a sociable knitting event in Thurso precinct as part of the Northern Loops project aimed at knitting together a new inter-generational group to allow young and old to socialise and exchange knowledge.

In parallel with the main event. Castletown Heritage Society will be offering visitors to Castletown Heritage Centre the opportunity to run up a row or two of knitting or learn to knit. Why not come along between 2pm and 4pm and have a go?

Interested in taking part? For further details - contact

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Summer Exhibition Now Open!

Trades and Business past and present, in and around Castletown

Learn all about the fascinating and diverse range of trades and businesses that have flourished in the village and parish over the years.

From the flagstone works to wood chip carvers to joke mask manufacture to state of the art freezer manufacture!

Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday afternoons, 2pm - 4pm. Other times by appointment

Castlehill Heritage Centre, Harbour Road, Castletown, nr Thurso

'Peat Experience Day' - A Grand Day Out 2

Last Sunday the second of the 'Peat Experience Days' organised by Castletown Heritage Society in conjunction with Mary-Ann's Cottage at Dunnet took place on the brilliantly sunny and slightly breezy peat bank on Burifa Hill at Dunnet Head. This event was a follow-on from the very successful peat workshop held earlier in the month, where a good quantity of peat was cut and laid out to dry.

Whilst the main activity of the day was to set up the peats to enhance the drying process and to take home the first consignment to Mary-Ann's Cottage, participants experienced the full peat life cycle - from trying their hand at cutting, setting up and stacking peats to sampling home-made bannocks baked over an open peat fire at Mary-Ann's Cottage, Dunnet.

From 1pm to 4pm in the afternoon, Castlehill Heritage Centre featured a display on the formation of peat, the archaeological importance of peat and stories of sacrifice, fairies and water gods of the peatlands.

Ready for the off	Easier than carrying by hand or a sack on the back!	John Crowden and David Glass explain the basics of cutting the peat	And this is how it's done
Making a start at the peat stack at Mary Ann's Cottage		I love work....I could watch it all day...	Enjoying the fruits of their labours...Carmel awaits a freshly made bannock

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A view from above - of Castlehill

We are delighted to receive some aerial photographs of Castlehill, taken by Brough resident Stewart Smith. Stewart and his private aircraft are a regular sight in the skies over Caithness and the north of Scotland, and recently he kindly offered to capture some views of Castlehill Heritage Centre and the surrounding area.

As usual, click on the images to enlarge.

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Writers Workshop

Yesterday, eight writers collected at Castlhill to take a closer look at how to use description more effectively in their writing. Through a series of activities, the writers learned more about each other and themselves as writers as well as new techniques for description.

They will build on what they learned in the all day Saturday workshop in three Tuesday night sessions to be held on the 8th, 15th and 22nd of June. Writing begun in these sessions may be incorporated into a booklet of Writing at the 'Hill. Future sessions include a look at poetry facilitated by Christine Russell and other genres led by local and visiting writers.

If you want to take part in the three Tuesday sessions, which will cost £5 each, click HERE.

Bring a notebook or laptop and be prepared to enjoy an inspirational learning experience.

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Local schoolchildren enjoy the 'Peat Experience'

On Monday 31 May, Castletown primary students had an interactive session to learn hands on about peat bogs and life in the bogs. Paul Humphreys had collected creatures--large enough to see--and some small enough they required a powerful lens to see. He also offered a hands on opportunity to find creatures hidden in a sample of peat.

Muriel Murray told tales of things (including people) buried in the bog and told of tales and superstitions around it.

The children got to try their hand at matching pictures of bog plants with their descriptions.

Vernacular Buildings Group visits Castlehill Heritage Centre

Castlehill Heritage Centre recently hosted a visit of the Scottish Vernacular Buildings Group, who were on a fact finding coach tour of buildings of interest in the north of Scotland. The Group were impressed by the work done to bring the Castlehill buildings back into active use, and were particularly pleased to witness the work in progress during the Drystone Dyking course and the preservation of this traditional skill. The Group, pictured here making use of the patio in the courtyard for their picnic lunch, were "delighted with their visit".

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Something Corny

Last weekend, internationally renowned Elaine Lindsay from the Guild of Straw Craftsmen led a well attended workshop demonstrating how to make 'corn dollies' and other traditional handicrafts using straw as the base material. Elaine will probably remember her first trip to Caithness for the wrong reasons however. On her way north she was held up for over two hours at Berridale while a rescue helicopter landed beside her to transport an injured coach driver to hospital and the road was cleared!

Despite her very late arrival at Castletown Hotel, Elaine gave participants at the two day straw work workshop excellent instruction and demonstrated a wide variety of plaiting methods. The participants, whose ages ranged from teens to sixties, were delighted to be able to produce examples of many of the techniques.

Elaine is also co-ordinating stories on the history of harvest knots, corn dollies etc. Local visitors to the centre during the workshop were able to add their reminiscences of farm workers making and wearing harvest knots in their buttonhole at dances. Any other similar stories would be welcomed by CHS who will pass them on to Elaine.

Plight of the Bumble Bee - Wednesday 19 May

Castletown Heritage Society is delighted to host an illustrated talk by Bob Dawson of the Bumblebee Conservation Trust in conjunction with the Caithness Branch of the British Science Association.

Anyonee interested in finding out more about these fascinating insects and the important role they play in our world should come along to this free event at Castletown Heritage Centre on the 19th May at 1930hrs.

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Peat Experience Workshop - a grand day out!

Thankfully the weather was kind last weekend for the first "Peat Experience Workshop" delivered by Castletown Heritage Society in conjunction with Mary-Ann's Cottage at the nearby village of Dunnet. Answering an appeal from the trustees to replenish the peat stack at Mary Ann's Cottage at Dunnet, eight volunteers keen to learn the art of cutting peat joined three committee members of Castletown Heritage Society on Dunnet Head.

Under the knowledgeable command of Dave Glass, Brough and Hamish Manson and his son David from Dunnet, the voluneers were put through their paces. After an introductory talk on the various tools of the trade, they set off on the thirty five minute walk into the hill where work began in earnest. The peat bank was first 'tirred' (the top turf removed and the face prepared) then each volunteer had a chance to cut different shapes of peats with a variety of instruments. Once cut, the peats were tossed to the waiting catchers who set them on the heather to dry. The weather was ideal for the job, with bright sunshine and a slight breeze. The cut peat will now be left to dry for a few weeks before the second workshop. Proceedings were captured on camera and video by Mick O'Donnell, Brough.

CHS is also putting on a Peat Experience Day on Sunday May 30th. On offer will be a guided nature walk to the peat bank, a chance to watch or even try cutting the odd peat, bannocks by a peat fire at Mary Ann's cottage, a display in castlehill heritage Centre showing the formation of peat and the archaeological importance of peat as a means of conservation.

Anyone wishing to participate in the Peat Experience Day should register their interest as soon as possible by clicking HERE or telephoning 01847 821204.

Eighteenth century industrial water channels restored

Back in February during a particularly wet spell, the access area to the rear of the courtyard garden flooded, threatening the garden works. John and Keith leapt into action with wellies and some nifty spadework, managing to stem the rising tide before it reached the level of the emergency exit door from the Vernacular Skills building.

On investigation, the water was found to be rising from one of the eighteenth century water channels, several of which run round the periphery of the Castlehill Heritage Centre and which supplied the water wheel driven stone cutting machinery at the Castlehill Pavement Works across the road, and the water wheel for the mill at Castlehill Farm to the north of the Heritage Centre. [The remains of the mill building can be seen at the top right of the second picture below - the building without the roof]. Whilst no longer in active use, the channels still carry groundwater from the field drains to the south of Castlehill buildings and can at times be quite 'lively'. The history of these underground water channels and others in the immediate area was the subject of a fascinating activity day run by the Society in October 2007 as part of Highland Archaeology Fortnight - for a report on that event, click here.

Last weekend remedial action got underway, taking advantage of Gordon our resident JCB operator, being home from university for a few days. The water channel was exposed and found to have partially collapsed at a point just downstream of where the water was emerging from the ground. After removing the heavy cover flagstones the channel was cleared of debris and accumulated silt, the channel walls were repaired where necessary and the flagstones replaced. Hopefully we can relax now for the next few hundred years....

Drystone Dyking Course creates new community asset

Participants in the latest of our very popular Drystone Dyking courses have created a new feature on the Castlehill Heritage Trail. Over the course of the weekend and working under the expert tuition of Master Craftsman Dave Goulder from Rosehall, a magnificent section of traditional Caithness drystone dyke, complete with a seating area, has been constructed adjacent to the north east entrance to the Trail.

Visitors taking advantage of a rest at the seat will be treated to a superb and uninterrupted view across the fields to Dunnet Bay and Dunnet Head beyond.

2010 AGM reflects on a very successful year

STOP PRESS: FULL REPORT TO FOLLOW

An enthusiastic audience turned out to hear Chairwoman Muriel Murray reflect upon a very full year of activity, a highlight of which was the the success of the Society in winning the Community Initiative category at the Highlands and Islands Tourism Awards in November 2009. The AGM was followed by a fascinating talk by Barbara Hiddleston, archivist at the Castle of Mey.

The following were elected to Executive Committee of the Castletown Heritage Society:

Music Workshop Gala Concert - Philomenal!!!!

Over the past two days Castlehill Heritage Centre has been host to a Scottish Traditional Music Workshop, delivered in partnership with North Highland Connections and the Royal Scottish Academy of Music and Drama.

Local school children and music students were coached by ten students from RSAMD in a series of instrumental workshops. Tonight's concert, held in the recently refurbished Mey Hall was the culmination of their efforts, and there wasn't a dry eye in the house as the children and students entertained the capacity audience to music of the highest calibre.

The concert was compered and supported by the legendary Phil Cunningham, pictured far left with some of the RSAMD students and was without doubt one of the best traditional music concerts to be held in Caithness for many a year.

Traditional home fare and baking

The wonderful aroma of home baking was in the air today, when the first of our traditional workshops for the 2010 season got underway.

Liz Buchan and Maisie Nicolson demostrated how to make pancakes, flourbread, oatcakes, brose, treacle scones, welsh cakes and berebread. Neil and John were on hand as chief tasters and showed how quickly they could disappear...

Quiz Night at Castlehill

There was much hilarity, scratching of heads and whirring of cogs amongst the twelve teams who took part in our Quiz Night on Thursday evening, the first such event we have held in the Centre. We were delighted to have four teams of youngsters from the Castletown Army Cadets.

Quizmaster Neil put the competitors though their paces with a balance of testing and easy(?) questions, covering ten different topic areas, such as Pot Luck, Television& Film, Blockbusters and Sport. In the event it proved to be a closely run thing for the top four teams, however the final 'specialist' round on knowledge of Caithness sorted out the 'knows' from the 'don't knows' with 'The Particulars' emerging as overall winners by only one point.

The teams were treated to a lovely supper of home baking and sandwiches mid way through the evening, courtesy of Liz Buchan, Jayne Blackburn, Jackie Donaldson and Muriel Murray.

After the raffle had been drawn, the Particulars were awarded their prizes, each receiving a beautiful turned wooden bowl crafted by local woodturner, Alastair Hossack.

The evening proved to be a popular success so plans are already afoot for another event in the autumn.

Castletown Primary School P3-4 visit Castlehill for a 'Flagstone Experience' day

The boys and girls of Primary 3 & 4 from Castletown Primary School were given an insight today about the traditional skills involved in working with Caithness Flagstone. Castlehill volunteer Hugh Crowden demonstrated how flagstone was cut from the quarry, split into workable sections then trimmed to make roofing tiles, all done using original hand tools from the collection of artefacts at Castlehill. The pupils were then given the opportunity to try their hand at using the tools for themselves, and discovered that life as a quarry worker would have been quite hard and tiring.

A highlight of the visit was to try dressing up in contemporary 19th century clothing, with workers wearing a waistcoat and either a floppy hat or a flat cap and the gaffer wearing a bowler. The last activity was to lay a paved path with pieces of flag bearing the initials of each pupil.

Also on hand were Muriel Murray and Jane Blackburn, who explained how fossilised fish, frequently found within Caithness Flagstone, were formed.

Winter exhibition proves popular

Our winter exhibition 'Looking Back 100 Years' has proven to be very popular with locals and tourists alike.

The exhibition is open every Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday afternoon, 2-4pm, until Easter. Other times and groups by arrangement - to make a booking, click HERE.

2010 Programme of Events

Castletown Heritage Society operates the Castlehill Heritage Centre as an educational resource for visitors, local students and school children and the local community. Through a programme of interpretive exhibitions and interactive workshops, we seek to stimulate and sustain interest in and understanding of the history, heritage, vernacular skills, biodiversity and physical surroundings of Castletown and the parish of Olrig. Our aim is to preserve and maintain the unique heritage of our community within both local Caithness and broader Highland contexts.

We are delighted to announce our programme of workhops, activities and exhibitions for 2010, from our popular drystone dyking courses to musical workshops and learning how to make 'corn dollies'! To browse the diverse range of proposed activities, please click HERE.

To review previous year's events and activities, click here:

Boxing day opening of Winter exhibition voted a success!

Our traditional Boxing Day opening once again proved popular with visitors and locals alike. On offer was the chance to be the first to view the new winter exhibition 'Looking Back 100 Years' and to sample some mincemeat pies, shortbread and mulled wine, made to John Crowden's secret recipe. And not bad it was too!!

As often happens, many of those perusing the exhibits and displays were able to contribute further information, memories and anecodtes, all of which will be used to develop the exhibition and enrich the visitor experience.

The exhibition will be open every Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday afternoon, 2-4pm, until Easter.

A steady stream of visitors arrived throughout the afternoon	Word 'processor', 1910 style	Fully functioning wind-up gramophone - the mp3 player of its day	Where's the cane and tails?
	A selection of domestic artefacts from the turn of the century (20th century, that is)	Muriel explaining the significance and provenance of some of our maritime paintings	A very elegant visitor?
Advertising flyer for the Castlehill Caithness Flagstone Company Limited	Postcard with rare view of Castletown from the quarry looking south west	Those who enjoyed a stroll round the 'harbour loop' were treated to a stunning view of the old red sandstone cliffs of Dunnet Head lit up by the setting sun	John, Muriel, Neil and Hugh with the trophy the Society won for 'Best Community Initiative' at the Highland & Islands Tourism Awards 2009

Looking Back at Castletown 100 Years Ago

Castletown Heritage Society proudly presents their Winter Exhibition which offers a glimpse into village life, politics, health, local entertainment, transport, world affairs, clothes and fashion of 100 years ago.

Exhibition opens on Boxing Day - Saturday 26th Dec, 1-4pm.

Come along to the opening event at the award winning Castlehill Heritage Centre and enjoy some complimentary mincemeat pies and mulled wine.

'Comings and Goings' has been and gone

The summer exhibition 'Comings and Goings', presented as part of Scotland's Year of Homecoming has now drawn to a close. Many thanks to all who visited Castlehill Heritage Centre, particularly those who were inspired to share memories and snippets of local knowledge and history, all of which helped to bring the exhibition to life.

The Society is now hard at work putting the finishing touches to our winter exhibition, which will focus on the life and times in Castletown 100 years ago. From the social scene to the introduction of new technology, the exhibition will offer a fascinating insight into village life in Castletown at the turn of the century. Watch this space for further details to be released shortly.

To enable the new exhibition to be set up, Castlehill Heritage Centre will be closed to visitors for two weeks and will re-open at 1pm on Boxing Day, 26th December. [All venue bookings will however proceed as normal during this period.]

Highlands & Islands Tourism Awards 2009

Best Community Initiative Award

Castletown Heritage Society

All the hard work and dedication of the committee, members and supporters of Castletown Heritage Society in establishing and developing the Castlehill Heritage Centre was formally recognised on Friday evening when, in the presence of Scottish First Minister Alex Salmond, Castletown Heritage Society was presented with the Best Community Initiative Award at the 2009 Highland and Islands Tourism Awards.

The Highlands and Islands Tourism Awards scheme, known as the 'northern Oscars', is one of the most coveted accolades in the industry and recognises tourism players at the top of their game. It is designed to reflect the high quality, diversity and innovation synonymous with tourism today in the Highlands and Islands.

The glittering award ceremony took place at the Drumossie Hotel in Inverness and was attended by representatives from the 25 strong shortlist of the best tourism businesses in the region. Neil and Liz Buchan travelled south to represent Castletown Heritage Society as guests of The Highland Council, sponsors of the Best Community Initiative Award.

"From the moment we stepped out of the taxi it was clear this was going to be a special evening", said Neil. "Guests were escorted into the Drumossie through a guard of honour formed of Jacobite Highlanders in magnificent period costumes, before mingling with other nominees and award sponsors at a champagne reception. Anyone hoping for a early sneaky peek of the main hall was gently, but firmly, dissuaded by a ferrocious looking Highlander weilding a large pike, but who was more than happy to pose for photographs!!

The award ceremony was very slick and professional, with a short video profile of each shortlisted organisation prior to the winner of each of the ten categories being announced. By the time our category was showcased the buzz and excitement of the evening had fair built up, and the emotion released when Castletown Heritage Society was announced as the winner was very real. We knew the competition was strong and even to have been selected as a shortlisted nominee was quite an achievement, so walking up onto the stage to receive the award on behalf of the Society was a very proud moment."

Castletown Heritage Society knew back in October that we had been shortlisted for the Community Tourism Initiative Award, which celebrates community collaboration and recognises initiatives and projects where community groups and businesses have worked together to improve the way their destination cares for visitors. Our fellow shortlisted nominees were the Auld Alliance Gourmet Academy at Kingussie and Dunollie in Oban.

Muriel Murray, Chairwoman of Castletown Heritage Society said: “On behalf of everyone associated with the Society, I am delighted that we have been recognised with the Community Tourism Initiative Award. The Society started back in 1985, but it’s really only in the last 2-3 years that we have become more active since we secured premises from Highland Council which now operate as a heritage based visitor attraction and exhibition centre, used by locals and visitors from around the world all year round. Being shortlisted for the award reflects the proactive approach and hard work, particularly in the past year, by the dedicated members who give up their time on a voluntary basis.”

Pre-Christmas Sale at Castlehill a roaring success!!!

When we first had the idea for a pre-Christmas sale of locally sourced goods and hand crafted items we were convinced it would do well, but were understandably nervous as it was our first venture of this nature. Any qualms quickly disappeared as Castlehill Heritage Centre was thronged from the moment the doors opened at 10 am.

Visitors remarked very favourably as to the high quality and diversity of produce on display, including:

• Slate and stone goods from Caithness Stone Industries
• Cards, prints and paintings from local artist Helen Moore
• Wood items lovingly crafted by the North Highland Woodturners Association
• Hand knit hats, scarves, bags, socks and Christmas ornaments from Caithness Stitch 'n' Blether
• Silk scarves, driftwood art, hand felted items from Castlehill Crafts
• Books, calendars and speciality soaps from Castletown Heritage Society

Tea, coffee and a selection of delicious home baking kept both the visitors and stall keepers refreshed at what turned out to be a real social event!

Thanks to all who turned out to make the days such a success - it has encouraged us to try similar events in the future to showcase local talent, and by popular demand we will almost certainly run another sale for Christmas 2010!

			Hugh and Keith take a breather in the sunshine in the courtyard garden

Caithness Voices - songs and verse project in full swing

The buildings at Castletown Heritage Centre have been ringing with the sound of songs, stories and verse with a local connection. Our 'Tidelines' series of workshops under the direction of Katrina Gordon and George Gunn, have resulted in the collection of a variety of tunes , songs and poems from past and present. The eclectic mix includes items reflecting the distant past of the Caithness mercenary soldier, songs praising the village and its people and local traditional songs recalling a particular phase in local history.

Local people have contributed their musical memories, their voices and their compositions.

An evening's entertainment in the Castletown Drill Hall on 30th October at 7.30 will give an opportunity to hear a few of the collected pieces. Among notable performers will be Heather Calder-McPhee , Donald Macneill, Heather Millard, Catherine Mckenzie and Joan Elder. Also performing will be class P6/7 of Castletown School who are the first to be involved in a county schools project "Caithness Voices" run by Grey Coast Theatre. The second part of the evening will be a performance of George Gunn's "Fields of Barley", of particular interest as it is set just outside Castletown during the Second World War. It is hoped that the concert will stimulate interest in the local heritage of music verse and story telling.

The project is a long-term one, run in collaboration with North Highland Connections and involves much research but heavily depends on input from local people. If anyone has a remembered air or verse, Castletown Heritage would be delighted to hear from you. Email

Half the time but twice the fun???

Word of the successful 'Laundry Day' workshop held with pupils from Castletown Primary School at the beginning of September (see report below) must have spread fast, for within days we received a request from Reay Primary School for a similar workshop.

Ever happy to oblige, Muriel Murray of Castletown Heritage Society organised another workshop in conjunction with STEM North of Scotland and local volunteers, this time compressed into half a day. Through a network of science and engineering 'ambassadors', STEM support activities and opportunities for schools to use to enrich the curriculum in biology, chemistry, physics, mathematics and technology.

Once again the pupils seemed to really enjoy learning about textiles, detergents and how 'claes' were washed in the 'olden days'.

Photos courtesy of Reay Primary School

Drystone Dyking Courses a great success.

After a week of decidedly mixed weather it was with mightly relief that the Drystone Dyking Course on 29/30 August was blessed with warm, sunny weather for both the Saturday and the Sunday. Under the expert leadership of master craftsman Dave Goulder from Lairg, course delegates quickly progressed from learning the basic skills to constructing a number of features within the Heritage Garden.

The pride of these is a circular stone wall, designed to be used as seating for visitors to relax and enjoy the ambience and features within the garden, and perhaps even enjoy a picnic lunch during those balmy Caithness summer days....

Due to the above course being significantly over-subscribed, a second course was arranged to cater for the overspill. In the event, this course was also rapidly oversubscribed, such is the popularity of these courses.

The second event actually took place the previous weekend, with local man George Gunn, Drystone Walling Association Master drystone waller and DSWA / LANTRA Advanced Trainer, taking on the role of course tutor. After intial instruction and safety briefing in Castlehill Heritage Centre, the course transferred to East Murkle, where we were very grateful to CHS member Duncan Gray who provided the venue for the delegates to develop their new found skills through the construction of a retaining wall. Duncan's wife Janet kept the delegates in fine fettle with some delicious catering.

If you would like to take part in the next dry stone dyking course to be organised by Castletown Hetitage Society, please contact us by EMAIL.

Laundry Day the old way at Castlehill Heritage Centre

Pupils from Castletown Primary School recently tried their hand at doing the family wash using methods more familiar to their grandmothers, at a 'Laundry Day' workshop organised by Muriel Murray of Castletown Heritage Society in conjunction with STEM North of Scotland and local volunteers. Through a network of science and engineering 'ambassadors', STEM support activities and opportunities for schools to use to enrich the curriculum in biology, chemistry, physics, mathematics and technology.

During what proved to be an action packed day, the Primary 6 & 7 pupils examined a variety of 'old fashioned' wash-day equipment, including a fascinating variety of irons, the method of use of each being carefully explained. They learned a little about the science behind soap and detergents from ex Thurso High School science teacher Mrs Speed.

Using washboards, podgers, tin baths and mangles, the pupils quickly discovered that unlike modern washing machines and other such labour saving devices, wash day really was hard work where a simple equation applied: more effort = cleaner clothes!

The programme included learning about knitting and weaving, with music in the air as the pupils sang Gaelic 'waulking' songs as practiced by Scottish women as they rhythmically beat or 'waulked' newly woven tweed around a table or board to make it full and ready for use.

All in all, the pupils voted the day a big success.

CHS moves into decommissioning!

Castletown Heritage Society committee members are well known for getting stuck in, building things and generally making things happen, however Saturday saw us develop a new line of activity by branching out into building demolition. Not perhaps as exciting as the innovative decommissioning work being undertaken by DSRL at Dounreay, but during the course of the day Neil and Gordon successfully 'deconstructed' a redundant, traditionally built stone pig sty at a local farm. Strange, but true.

There was method in our madness however, as in return for safely removing the crumbling building and improving access to the farm courtyard, farm owner Muriel Murray generously donated all the recovered Caithness stone for re-use as raw material for the forthcoming drystone dyking course on the 29th August.

CHS Newsletter - Summer 09

To download a copy of our latest newsletter please, click here.

Erratum: Please note that in the report of the AGM on page two, the list of Committee Members should include Neil Buchan, Technical Projects Manager.

Note: File size is 5.25Mb, and is in pdf format. Those without broadband may need to be very patient...

Heritage Garden works forge ahead

Work to develop the courtyard within Castlehill Heritage Centre took another step forward this weekend, with some redundant sections of drystone wall being carefully dismantled to make way for new features. All the drystone material was carefully recovered, and will be recycled as stock material for the forthcoming Drystone Dyking course in two weeks time.

A key deliverable of the course will be to construct a circular feature in the centre of the garden, next to the magnificent 'Victorian' style streetlamp donated by The Highland Council earlier this year. The feature will provide a main focal point for the garden, where visitors will be able to sit, relax and view the other features.

Hugh, John and Gordon make light work of dismantling one of the redundant sections of wall at the south end of the Heritage Garden.

Yes, that is real sweat on John's brow!

All the recovered stone will be recycled as stock material for the construction of new features within the Heritage Garden.

The outline of the proposed circular seating feature can be seen marked out in yellow.

Thanks to some neat paint work by John, the 'Victorian' style street lamp now really looks the part

Muriel samples some of the home baking provided by Liz as 'fuel' for the workers

Castlehill in Bloom II

The heritage garden and grounds were looking at their best in the glorious sunshine yesterday afternoon, which, coincidentally, was well timed for a visit by Halkirk Gardening Club.

Orkney farmers visit Castlehill

A recent outing to Caithness for the Orkney Farmers Discussion Group brought 53 visitors to Castlehill Heritage Centre. Their primary purpose was not to view the heritage display nor to admire the courtyard garden but to inspect our wood fuelled boiler system providing hot water for the under-floor heating sytem. A few visitors at a time entered the boiler room where they were met by committee member John Crowden and given an account of the workings of the system, from collection of wood and operation of the boiler to monitoring of the monthly heat output created and boiler efficiency.

The group expressed their appreciation by handing over a bottle of one of Orkney's more famous products. CHS chairman was glad to receive sound first hand advice on the small crop of Orkney bere, ripening in the heritage garden.

CHS website enquiry about McIvor and Allan put to bed

The diversity of interesting questions thrown at us from people all over the world who have browsed our website never ceases to amaze.

Last week an inquiry came from Cambridge, Ontario, Canada from a gentleman who had just bought a heavily carved four poster bed at a local auction. Its provenence declared it to have come from a Scottish castle. The bed was made by McIvor and Allan, Castletown furniture makers and wood carvers, and had been owned by Mrs Buchner, John McIvor's niece.

CHS and the archivist at the Castle of Mey were able to supply some information on McIvor and Allan and the possible story of the bed.

Further information on the history and activities of McIvor and Allan can be found in our comprehensive and highly popular 144-page illustrated book on the history of the village and parish, which is available to purchase in pdf format on CD ROM, priced at £15.

A sense of Homecoming

Castletown Heritage Society have always known that there was a good atmosphere in Castlehill Heritage Centre.

It is heartening, when visitors tell us that they, too, feel a special feeling of coming home, when they arrive in Castletown in search of information on previous generations of their families who have lived and worked here.

Summer programme of archaeological exploration

Looking for Vikings - Our summer programme of archaeological field work on the Dunnet links is now underway. Scheduled activities include geo-physical surveys, coring, trial pits, excavations and post excavation analysis. Paul Humphreys is our project leader, with technical support provided by Graham Cavers of AOC Archaeology.

Interested in taking part? For further details contact: castletown.heritage@talk21.com

Weaving Workshop a Winner

CHS was very fortunate to secure the services recently of local weaver Andrew Kieran just before he left for the Borders to study textile design. Andrew first showed the art of knot weaving using a small wooden frame. He explainied that a loom allows, in essence, the interaction between fabric and the weaver and in theory could be constructed from anything from a few sticks to a lamp-post.

Picking up on this concept by using two picnic benches as a loom, Andrew then demonstrated tablet weaving which creates a narrow decorative strip of the form thought to edge Viking garments.

Interspersing his demonstrations with references to ethnic and historic weaving practices, Andrew ably instructed and entertained his students.

Drystone Dyking Workshops fully subscribed

The next workshop at Castlehill will be on dry stone dyking on August 29th and 30th with Dave Goulder. This workshop is now fully booked.

Such has been the popularity of this craft that a supplementary workshop will be held at East Murkle Croft on the weekend of the 22nd and 23rd August under tutor George Gunn. This course too is now fully booked.

Castlehill in Bloom

The recent fine weather has encouraged a superb show of colour and produce within the Heritage Garden at Castlehill, captured here by Sharon Gunason.

Caithness Family History Group visits Castlehill Heritage

There was a good turn out of members of Caithness Family History group for their visit to Castlehill Heritage Centre.

After an introduction by their president Anne Dunnett, a short welcome was given by CHS Chairwoman, Muriel Murray, followed by an explanation of the origins of the building and the activities that take place in it.

The group then viewed the current exhibition "Comings and Goings" which looks at social movements into and out of the area. The garden with its heritage themed beds was an added attraction. Over a cup of tea, served by CHS committee members, the visitors had a chance to chat to each other and exchange reminiscences. As usual, CHS learnt a great deal by the end of the evening.

To view a gallery of photos from the evening, courtesy of Sheila Moir, click here

Castletown WRI display celebrates 90th Anniversary

Castlehill Heritage Centre is currently hosting a small display by Castletown WRI in celebration of its 90th year of continuous operation. Castletown WRI is the second longest formed WRI in the area, being established in April 1919. In those days meetings were held in the Castletown Higher School gymnasium; the annual subscription was two shillings, or sixpence per quarter. Members had to bring their own cup and sugar!!

The display includes a selection of memorabilia and photographs, such as this one from the 70's. Many familiar faces there, albeit some 30 years younger!!

The WRI meets on the second Wednesday of each month in the Drill Hall extension, Main Street, Castletown. New members are most welcome.

Fruits of labour showing in the Heritage Garden

The hard work over the past few months to create the first stage of the heritage themed garden within the courtyard has been rewarded with a fine showing of young shoots. The round feature (see left) contains a variety of traditional garden herbs, such as thyme, parsley, chives, mint, sage and rosemary, to name but a few.

The mixed plot (see right) has two plantings of vernacular cereals - the darker one to the left is Black Oats, the lighter rectangle is Bere. In the foreground the curly Kale is doing really well, protected from the attention of itinerant slugs by collars round the stems, fashioned from cardboard by Hugh. Also in this plot are a line of tatties and a few rows of neeps - the latter forming part of the staple diet of Caithness man, sheep and cows alike!

Just finished is an areawhich has been sown with Costal Meadow Mix (see left) , which contains an accredited mix of grasses and wild flowers, all natural to the area. Over the next couple of months it is hoped to complete construction of a central circular feature formed out of Caithness flagstone, and which will provide seating and a focal point for the garden. Adjacent to this will be a large feature flagstone, which is currently being laser engraved with images of local fossils, courtesy of Caithness Stone Industries. Watch this space for further developments - better still, why not come along and see for yourself!

Castlehill Heritage Centre is open from 2-4pm every Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday, other times by arrangement. Groups most welcome. Contact castletown.heritage@talk21.com for more details.

Wash and Brush Up - talent abounds

Captured in action this evening was the painting class run by Helen Moore every Monday evening over the winter. These classes have proven to be both highly popular and very successful, with several newcomers to the craft discovering hidden depths of talent.

Beginners are especially welcome and receive a free introductory session. Sessions run from 7-9pm on Monday evenings at a cost of £8 per evening plus materials. Juniors and OAPs £5.

Castletown Heritage Society

Annual General Meeting

The Annual General Meeting of the Castletown Heritage Society will be held in the Castlehill Heritage Centre on Wednesday, 22 April at 7.30pm.

The guest speaker will be Mike Ledger, Quarryside, who will talk about his research and travels in the pursuit of the story of those local men named on the Castletown War Memorial.

All welcome - refreshments will be provided.

Drystone Dyking Course

Castletown Heritage Society are pleased to announce that it will be holding another of its very popular drystone dyking courses on Saturday 29th and Sunday 30th August.

Over the course of the two days, multi-talented master craftsman Dave Goulder from Rosehall, Lairg, will coach course delegates in the basic craft skills before leading them on to more advanced techniques.

Dave was born in 1939 of a Derbyshire farming family - a railway footplate man, mountaineer, motorcyclist, classical music enthusiast, Spanish guitar player, Jew's harp virtuoso, songwriter, poet, singer, hedge layer, junk sculptor, naturalist, community arts administrator, drystone walling Master Craftsman/instructor, ceilidh band member, failed mandolin player, and arthritic. For further information on Dave's work visit his superb website.

If you wish to secure a place on this popular workshop, or require further information, drop us a line at castletown.heritage@talk21.com Early booking is recommended.

Castlehill on-line

This weekend was a bit of a landmark at the Castlehill Heritage Centre, when the newly installed internal IT network was commissioned making internet access and networked printing available within the Centre for the first time.

The system includes a fully configured VOIP phone service, which hopefully will be up and running later this week. This will be a huge asset to the Centre as to date we have been relying on mobile phone services which, due to the building having two foot thick stone walls, have been somewhat unreliable.

Castlehill House gates brought back to life

Anyone walking into the Castlehill Heritage Centre during the past few months could not fail to notice the great strides taken by Hugh and the team towards the creation of the heritage garden within the courtyard. New paths and raised beds have appeared and thanks to a generous donation by the Street Lighting department of The Highland Council, the courtyard now boasts a fully functional Victoriana-style lamp column.

This weekend saw a poignant moment however, as a magnificent cast iron gate carrying the Traill family crest and motto in the centre, took pride of place in a purpose made aperture in the east wall of the courtyard.

The gate is one of a pair that once guarded the harbour- side entrance to Castlehill House grounds, and was rescued a couple of years ago by the Society from under a heap of rubbish and debris in the ruins of Castlehill House. After much wire brushing by Muriel and a lick of paint the gate has been restored to something of its former glory, and stands as a reminder of the role of the Traill family in establishing the Flagstone Works at Castlehill.

Rainwater harvesting at Castlehill

It seemed stragely ironic that the weather should turn wet and thoroughly miserable whilst Neil and Hugh were installing the first phase of a rainwater harvesting system at Castlehill Heritage Centre. At least they were able to test that the diverter/filter operated properly and that there were no leaks!

Water from the guttering around the building slate roof is passed through a filter unit (see right) which separates out any debris and diverts clean water into two 750 litre tanks. The water will initially be used to provide water for watering the new heritage garden, currently under construction in the courtyard.

When phase two is complete in a few weeks time, the system will additionally supply all our water needs for toilet and urinal flushing, thereby reducing mains water usage and the impact of the Centre on the environment. A back-up mains water feed will however be installed to cater for those long, hot Caithness summers when it doesn't rain for weeks.....

Knitting Workshop with Deirdre Nelson

This weekend, Castletown Heritage played host to a workshop by internationally renowned needlework artist Deirdre Nelson (pictured left). Over the course of three days, Deirdre inspired an enthusiastic group of craft hobbyists in the art of interpreting aspects of local social history through knitting.

Originally from Ireland but living and working in Glasgow, Deirdre graduated from Glasgow School of Art in 1992, and her work has evolved through experimenting with materials and working methods to provide a humourous commentary on social and textile history. Her work employs a variety of techniques and materials fusing traditional textile skills and contemporary reinterpretation. She has exhibited in Britain and overseas and has recently been selected for Jerwood contemporary Makers in London. Deirdre is currently artist in residence at Taigh Chearsabagh Museum and Arts Centre in Lochmaddy N. Uist, Outer Hebrides.

Typical of Deirdre's works on display this weekend was a curiously long sock with small 'memo notes' attached. Deirdre explained that during her time in Uist she learned of a story about about a mother who's son was away working in Edinburgh. As the mother was concerned for his welfare she regularly wrote to him, her news being littered with words of advice and reminders of how to look after himself. Often she would send parcels, including hand knitted clothing. "I could just imagine the mother knitting a sock which got longer and longer as she absent mindedly focused on what her son might be doing and formulating appropriate words of advice, rather than concentrating on the sock... I captured what I thought might be some of those words and attached them along the length of the sock and gave them a contemporary feel by formatting like the header of an email."

As can be seen from the photos below the workshop proved to be a great success, with local themes being developed in the knitted form, such as bottles of Old Pulteney whisky, fish and pebbles, siren fish, boats, jute twine vests and traditional music notes to name but a few.

Thoughts are formulating for another workshop later in the year. If you are interested, drop us a line at castletown.heritage@talk21.com

Photos: Neil Buchan and John Crowden

Astronomy Club meets at Castlehill

On Friday past, Castlehill Heritage Centre was host to the newly formed Caithness Astronomy Group. Master of ceremonies for the evening was Mike Lunan, who kicked things off with a presentation describing the variety of objects that are potentially visible from our northern location. With the cloud breaking after a day of lousy weather the Group moved outside to the courtyard, where all lighting was turned off to optimise viewing - and they weren't disappointed.

Group Chairman Gordon Mackie picks up the story: "We were treated to breathtaking views of the night sky. It's hard to believe what we managed to see, all in the space of a couple of hours. Early on we were treated to views of the crescent Moon and Venus showing a similar crescent phase. Then with the sky darkening the Pleiades, the Orion Nebula and the Milky Way started to become visible. By the end we had seen stars & star clusters galore, galaxies, a planet almost without its familiar rings, a passing comet, an iridium flare and a shooting star or two. Let's hope for more of this at future events!"

The Caithness Astronomy Group has put together a comprehensive programme of events for the coming year, all in support of the International Year of Astronomy. The programme culminates in a Meteor Watch and IYA2009 End of Year Event, back at Castlehill on Sunday 13th December. For further information on the group and its activities, contact Gordon Mackie (Chairman) – gpmackie@hotmail.co.uk or Pat Kieran (Secretary) – pat_kieran@yahoo.com.

Photos: Gordon Mackie

Signage at Castlehill

Finding your way to Castlehill Heritage Centre is now easier than ever thanks to some new signage erected by committee members this weekend.

The smart new signs were supplied by Malcolm Begg at Haster, the grey colour being chosen to blend in with the building stonework.

If coming by car please park in the Heritage Trail car park, directly opposite - there is ample space available. This will help keep the hardcore area in front of the entrance available for blue badge holders or others having access difficulties.

Archaeological Post Excavation Workshop

Following on from the success of last summer 's archaeological training project 'Looking for Vikings', the archaeological post excavation training workshop held last Sunday proved to be very popular indeed. Dr Andy Heald of AOC archaeology coached the eager attendees in the techniques and processes involved in sifting, sorting, recording and analysing finds from archaeological excavations. Very much a 'hands-on' experience!

To register interest in the next workshop please contact castletown.heritage@talk21.com

Programme of events for 2009

The draft programme of events for 2009 is now available. Many new and exciting events and workshops are also under development - check regularly for latest details.

Craftsmen 'Turn out' for Prize Giving

Members of the North Highland Woodturners Association recently held their annual end of year prize giving where a stunning array of wooden artefacts were on display, reflecting the skills and techniques deployed by this dedicated group. The judge was Mr Body of John o'Groats pottery.

The regular Saturday morning workshop sessions, which take place in the Multipurpose Skills Workshop Area within the Castlehill Heritage Centre, resume in February.

Boxing Day visitors

Our now traditional Boxing Day opening once again proved popular as a steady stream of visitors and some familiar faces visited the Farming and Crofting exhibition and were rewarded with mulled wine, shortbread, cake and a cup of tea or coffee. Daisy Cowe obliged once more, allowing visitors to experience milking a cow 'first hand', although she did insist they warmed their hands first.

The exhibition focuses principally but not exclusively, on the history of agriculture in Olrig parish, from early settlement, pre and post mediaeval, the 18th and 19th century improvements to the 1950s.

The age of the horse, steam and tractor, crops, stock, rents, clearances, living conditions and socialising are all featured, together with associated trades and activities.

Castlehill Heritage Centre will be open as usual over the festive season - why not drop in to explore the Crofting and Farming exhibition - Saturdays, Sundays and Wednesdays 2-4pm.

Merry Christmas from Castletown Heritage Society

Castletown Heritage extends seasons greetings to all our friends, members visitors and supporters.

Castlehill Heritage Centre will be open as usual over the festive season - why not drop in to explore the Crofting and Farming exhibition - Saturdays, Sundays and Wednesdays 2-4pm.

Open Boxing Day 2-4pm - Join us for mulled wine and shortbread.

Daisy Cowe meets the 1st Dunnet Bay Cub Scouts at the Castlehill Crofting & Farming Exhibition

Among many recent visitors to Castlehill Heritage Centre was Daisy Cowe, making a nostalgic trip to research her ancestors who had long and close links with the Castletown area. Daisy, who presently works in the tourist industry based at the Animal Centre at the Castle of Mey, was taken by friends to Castlehill. There she occupied the same stall in the former dairy as her great grandmother had done.

Tracing her ancestry to even earlier times, she heard how land owner James Traill had introduced a new dairy herd of Ayrshires to his Castlehill farm in the late 1700s.to improve milk yields. The herd was accompanied by an experienced Ayrshire dairy-maid. Success came quickly and Castlehill cheese was sent south to the Edinburgh market, where it was much in demand as a quality product.

During her visit to Castlehill, Daisy met Cub Scouts from the 1st Dunnet Bay Scout Group. Thanks to Daisy's patience, the youngsters received hands-on experience of milking supervised by Christine Crowden. They also turned their hands to churning butter with the assistance of Neil Buchan, and making hand-made ropes and nets under the watchful eye of Hugh Crowden.

Browsing for information	Akela helps out	Hugh demonstrates making a fishing net	That's the way...
Testing a newly made section of rope	Muriel explains about crofting life	Please Miss, I know the answer!	Having a go at churning butter

The exhibition is open every Saturday, Sunday and Wednesday from 2pm - 4pm. Other times and special openings or activity evenings for groups by arrangement.

Looking for Vikings - Sat 6th & Sun 7th December

The second post excavation workshop which was due to be held on Sunday 9th November at Castlehill Heritage Centre from 10 a.m. until 4.00 p.m. has been postponed until early in the new year.

Watch the website for further updates on revised dates.

To reserve a place contact castletown.heritage@talk21.com

Crofting and Farming Exhibition - Sat 21 November

This weekend Castletown Heritage Society launches its winter exhibition on crofting and farming. Displays focus principally but not exclusively, on the history of agriculture in Olrig parish, from early settlement, pre and post mediaeval, the 18th and 19th century improvements to the 1950s. The age of the horse, steam and tractor, crops, stock, rents, clearances, living conditions and socialising are all featured, together with associated trades and activities.

The exhibition opens on Saturday 21 November and will be open from 2pm - 4pm every Saturday, Sunday and Wednesday afternoon over the winter. Other times by appointment.

Flagstone Village - Available to purchase on CD ROM

In 2002, the Society published a comprehensive and highly popular 144-page illustrated book on the history of the village and parish.

Sadly our stock of books is exhausted however the book is now available to purchase in pdf format on CD ROM, priced at £15.

Available now - ideal Christmas gift!

Northern Glow - Biomass heating open day success

Jon Priddy in action

Visitor book feedback

Castletown Heritage Society and Community Energy Scotland held an open day last Saturday, 1st November, demonstrating the new log boiler heating system installed in the Castlehill Heritage Centre. Our state of the art installation burns from the Dunnet Forestry Trust community woodland in a modern log boiler - the heat is stored in a special tank and then used by the underfloor heating and hot water systems in the building as necessary.

The event was opened by CHS Chairwoman Muriel Murray, after which committee member Neil Buchan, gave a detailed presentation on the design, procurement and installation of the system, fielding many questions from a well informed and enthuiastic audience.

After a tour of the system and installation, Jon Priddy, Community Energy Scotland North and East Highland Area Manager, gave further examples of community led renewable energy installations and information on the range of grants and assistance available from CES.

The event concluded with an excellent lunch provided by the St Clair Arms Hotel, Castletown and overall was judged a great success, as evidenced by the very positive comments in the visitors book - see above.

Ancestral Research - Thursday 4th November

Taster presentation on Ancestral research for heritage groups. Full course available to undertake as a winter study opportunity and is free of charge. CHS have got an hour 7-8pm at Thurso College on Thursday 4th December. Any one interested please get in touch in usual way.

Tel: 01847 821204 or castletown.heritage@talk21.com

Looking for Vikings - Sunday 9th November

Following this summer's successful archaeological training project, in conjunction with AOC archaeology, Castletown Heritage can now confirm details of the first post excavation workshop. This will be held on Sunday 9th November at Castlehill Heritage Centre from 10 a.m. until 4.00 p.m. and will be led by Dr Andy Heald. A light lunch will be provided.

A warm welcome back to all those who took part in the summer activities and also to any new budding archaeologists who may like to attend. A second two-day workshop is planned for the weekend of the 5-6 th December.

To book a place contact castletown.heritage@talk21.com

Wash and Brush Up II - Painting Classes by Helen Moore

Starts Monday 13 October

Returning by popular demand, CHS will be hosting a series of art painting classes in Castlehill Heritage Centre. The tutor for the sessions will once again be local Castletown artist Helen Moore who specialises in oils, acrylics and oil pastels.

Selection of paintings from the sessions held in June - click to enlarge

The sessions will run on Monday evenings, starting on on Monday 13 October. Beginners are especially welcome and will receive a free introductory session. Sessions will run from 7-9pm and cost £8 per evening plus materials. Juniors and OAPs £5.

To book a place contact castletown.heritage@talk21.com or come along on Monday 13 Oct. For further information click here.

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Croft Crafts - Traditional Skills workshop - Sat 4 Oct

Following the success of the event held last year as part of the Highland 2007 Year of Culture Community Programme, Castletown Heritage Society staged a second workshop on Saturday 4th October. On offer were spinning, carding, fleece preparation, crochet, rag rug making and quilting. The workshop was fully subscribed, highlighting the strong local interest in preserving these traditonal skills.

A third workshop will almost certainly be included in next year's line-up of events.

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Never felt better! - Felt scarf workshop - Sat 15 Nov

Break the mould and prepare yourself for that Caithness winter chill with a warm and stylish nuno-felt scarf.

Join local artist and tutor Joanne Kaar for this innovative, practical workshop and learn how to prepare the materials, design and then create your very own scarf, which will be yours to take away.

The workshop will be held in the Castlehill Heritage Centre on Saturday 15 November.

All materials will be provided (at cost - £13) - your imagination comes free!

Numbers will be limited therefore booking is essential - telephone 01847 821204 or email castletown.heritage@talk21.com for more details and to secure your place.

Flotsam & Jetsam - Driftwood Sculpture - art workshop

The next event in the Society's summer programme is the second art workshop by John Macleod of Thurso.

John will demonstrate how to transform innocuous looking pieces of driftwood into stunning examples of creative driftwood sculpture. Workshop participants will be guided through the process as they create their own work of art.

The workshop will be held in the Castlehill Heritage Centre on Sunday 31 August. Materials will be provided.

Booking is essential - 01847 890983 and for more details.

LOOKING FOR VIKINGS! - WEEKEND MEDIEVAL POTTERY WORKSHOP

Pictured in action is George Haggerty, one of UK's leading experts on medieval and post medieval pottery, kicking off the first day of the weekend workshop. A charismatic and entertaining speaker, George kept the band of enthusiastic workshop members spellbound as he explained and demonstrated how to recognise, identify and date pottery and ceramic material from the medieval period onwards.

Did you know that fired clay material can turn out red or grey dependant on the oxygen levels in the oven at the time of firing? Do you know the distinctive features of Aberdeen-shire clay based artefacts that have found their way all round Scotland? If you want to find out more, come along to the public lecture taking place this evening at 7.30 in Castlehill Heritage Centre. Its free and all are welcome!

Castletown Pupils' magnificent mural now on display

Senior pupils from Castletown Primary School recently took part in a Highland-wide initiative called "Salt of the Earth" which seeks to explore in creative and inventive ways the significance of local characters who have made their mark in the new Scottish landscape.

One of only five communities chosen to take part in the initiative, the pupils chose to investigate and showcase the life of William Angus, a journeyman stonecutter from Castletown who emigrated to New York in 1866, and who used the skills learned in Castletown to build mansions on New York's famous Fifth Avenue.

Local artist Joanne B Carr has transformed the pupils' artwork, created during a two day workshop within the Castlehill Heritage Centre, into a magnificent mural which is now proudly on display to the public in the Centre.

The project was funded and supported by the Heritage Lottery Fund, Scottish Community Foundation, Highlands and Islands Enterprise and An Talla Solais (Ullapool Visual Arts).

Woodturners turn it on at Castlehill

Members of the North Highland Woodturners Association pictured this morning, hard at work at their craft during one of their Saturday morning workshop sessions, which take place in the Multipurpose Skills Workshop Area within the Castlehill Heritage Cantre.

Castletown Heritage Society are delighted to welcome the NHWA as regular users of the facility, the theme of their activities being entirely in keeping with the aims of the Society in preserving local and vernacular skills.

Flower Power at Castlehill

The hard work put in by local volunteer Irene Wares with help from Hugh, Christine and Muriel earlier in the season has been rewarded by a lovely show of summer blooms in and around the Castletown Heritage Centre grounds.

Most of the plants were sourced from our local Woodside Garden Centre who have been very supportive of the Centre. Why not give them a call - you too could have a show like this!

LOOKING FOR VIKINGS! - WEEKEND WORKSHOP

The Castletown Heritage Norse and Viking Heritage Project continues apace. This weekend’s workshop (Sat 2nd – Sun 3rd Aug, 10am to 16.00pm) is being hosted by the leading expert on Scottish medieval and post-medieval ceramics, George Haggarty.

George is a fellow of the Society of Antiquaries of London and sits on the council of the Society of Antiquaries of Scotland. He is also a Research Associate at the National Museums Scotland. He has published almost 90 papers or articles on ceramic material dating from the 12th to 19th centuries and is currently working towards the distribution in the Journal of the Northern Ceramic Society, of two ceramic resource disks, on 17th and 18th century ceramic material recovered from archaeological excavations carried out at kiln sites near Prestonpans, East Lothian. Keeping up his interest in medieval pottery he is also involved with a Historic Scotland funded programme of ICP-MS chemical analysis on medieval and latter Scottish redwares, and the publication of a number of ceramic assemblages from urban sites.

Whilst the overall Castletown community project is tailored to finding Viking and Norse archaeology we also aim to learn about the other material and structural remains of other ancestors who lived and died in the area. This weekend’s workshop investigates the material evidence for individuals who lived and died during the post-Viking period. George is planning an ambitious programme that involves not only lectures but also hands-on teaching from his extensive pottery collections. George will also deliver the Saturday evening lecture (in Castlehill Heritage Centre, 7.30pm).

It really is a coup for Castletown Heritage to get someone of George’s standing and what he doesn’t know about medieval and post-medieval ceramics isn’t worth knowing! He is very enthusiastic about the area and the project, so much so that he will speak about the possibility of creating a more formal fieldwalking project in the future. Whether fieldwalking or excavating, you nearly always encounter med and post med ceramics.

As always the Weekend workshops are free to attend, are open to all and there is no charge for any part of the project. Workshops run from 10am – 4pm and are held at Castlehill Archaeological Research Facility within the Castlehill Heritage Centre, Harbour Road, Castletown. We hope to see you there.

If you would like to take part in the project please contact: Mrs Muriel Murray, Castletown Heritage Society Tel: 01847 821 204 Email castletown.heritage@talk21.com

CLICK HERE FOR FURTHER INFORMATION AND A LINK TO THE DAILY WEB DIARY

The project has been generously sponsored by the Heritage Lottery Fund, HIE and the European Fund.

LOOKING FOR VIKINGS!

Castletown Heritage Society (CHS) has embarked on a major community project to investigate possible Viking and Norse heritage around Dunnet Bay on the north coast of Caithness.

Central to the project is the involvement and training of the local community. As well as undertaking a six-week field project, the programme will involve public lectures, training days on artefacts, survey, excavation, post-excavation and publications, web diaries and open days.

This ambitious project kicks off at Castlehill Archaeological Research Facility, Harbour Road, Castletown on Saturday 12th July 08.

The programme for the first weekend - Saturday12th and Sunday13th July from 10 am to 4 pm including a public lecture on Saturday at 7.30 - will outline the project and provide an introduction to the archaeology of the area, with a particular focus on the Vikings, and be complemented with a series of artefact recording workshops specific to the project.

Everyone is welcome and there is no charge for any of the project.

If you would like to take part in the project please contact: Mrs Muriel Murray, Castletown Heritage Society Tel: 01847 821 204 Email castletown.heritage@talk21.com

CLICK HERE FOR FURTHER INFORMATION AND A LINK TO THE DAILY WEB DIARY

The project has been generously sponsored by the Heritage Lottery Fund, HIE and the European Fund.

Towards a sustainable future for Castletown

The Old Parish Church, built in 1840 served the parish until 1929. In order to help build up a picture of public opinion on possible ways forward for the village, the Princes Trust for the Regeneration of the Built Environment has asked Castletown Heritage Society to research the feeling of the community on the future of the old parish church.

If you would like to express an opinion, you can:

• email comments to castletown.heritage@talk21.com,
• call in to the Castlehill Heritage Centre on Saturday 14th June, from 2pm to 4pm or
• send your comments to Castletown Heritage, Castlehill Heritage Centre, Harbour Road, Castletown, KW14 8TG

Wash and Brush Up - Painting Classes for Beginners by Helen Moore

Over the course of the next few weeks CHS will be hosting a series of art painting classes for beginners in Castlehill Heritage Centre. The tutor for the sessions will be local Castletown artist Helen Moore who specialises in oils, acrylics and oil pastels.

The sessions will run for six consecutive Mondays starting with a free introductory session on Monday 9th June. Sessions will run from 7-9pm and cost £8 per evening plus materials.

To book a place contact castletown.heritage@talk21.com or come along to the free taster session on Monday 9th June. For further information click here.

CHS Chairwoman Muriel Murray (right) gets the opening ceremony underway

Dr John Barber of AOC Archeology Group

Local man Jimmy Gunn and Lord Lieutenant of Caithness Anne Dunnett cut the ribbon to officially open the Castlehill Archaeological research Facility

The dry room where detailed analysis and cataloguing of finds will take place

View through the public viewing gallery

Official Opening of

Castlehill Archaeological Research Facility

Paul Humphreys of Caithness Archaeological Trust demonstrates the wet sieving equipment

Wet sieving equipment and settling tanks

From left: Dr John Barber, Muriel Murray, Paul Humphreys, Jimmy Gunn, Lord Lieutenant of Caithness Anne Dunnett

John Barber complements Paul Humphreys on his design of the wet sieving equipment, manufactured locally by Gows of Lybster

Local builder Tony Birdsall (AJ Building Services) and CHS committee member Hugh Crowden (left) enjoy a well earned rest from construction of the facility

Thursday 24 April saw the culmination of two months hard work to construct the Castlehill Archaeological Research Facility within the 'long building' at Castlehill Heritage Centre.

The facility has been created by Castletown Heritage Society and will be leased to AOC Archaeology Group. Working in partnership with Caithness Archaeological Trust, CHS and AOC will use the facility to support the River of Stone Programme of trial digs and excavations due to get underway shortly throughout Caithness.

The opening ceremony was ably performed by Lord Lieutenant of Caithness Anne Dunnett and local Castletown man Jimmy Gunn who used to work on Thurdistoft farm.

During his entertaining speech, the invited guests heard Dr John Barber, Managing Director of AOC Archaeology Group invoke the blessings of God or the benign indifference of the universe on the enterprise at Castletown and associate himself and AOC with Muriel Murray’s earlier acknowledgement of the roles played by funding agencies, Castletown Heritage Society Committee and others in the realisation of the project. The provision of analytical facilities at the Castlehill Archaeological Research Facility forms part of the overall strategy of the River of Stone programme.

Prepared by AOC at the request of Caithness Archaeological Trust, the River of Stone Programme proposes extensive Fieldwork and Excavations throughout the county. By providing fundamental sample, finds and data processing facilities within Caithness the likelihood of attracting leading scholars to undertake Fieldwork in the county is greatly increased. At the same time these facilities allow AOC to provide training and employment for local community members in archaeological methods. In turn access to trained personnel also makes working in the county easier and more attractive for archaeological groups.

AOC in partnership with Castletown Heritage Society and Caithness Archaeological Trust very much welcome the creation of these new facilities at Castlehill, which they see as a beginning of a process rather than the successful culmination of a project, although it is undoubtedly the latter also.

Investment by CASE (now HIE) and EU Funding in the project has been encouraged by AOC’s leasing of the facilities from Castletown Heritage Society for a minimum five year period. From the outset AOC will employ two archaeological technicians at Castlehill supported by a part time manager, all employed locally. As works progress further works opportunities will emerge. AOC is committed to a spend of £250k - £300k over the five year period. During that time further archaeological projects will be undertaken in Caithness, which will multiply the investment many times over. Sample processing from these projects will of course be undertaken at Castlehill.

Next steps include the creation of an IT hub, an archiving facility and field research facilities in Caithness to provide a comprehensive infrastructural base that will allow the execution of the interesting and exciting projects within the River of Stone Programme.

Castletown Heritage Society gratefully acknowledge the support of local contractors A J Building Services, Duncan Gray (electricians), Corrie Group (plumbing), and Gows of Lybster (plant and equipment) in helping us deliver the facility on programme.

Annual General Meeting

The old maxim 'Ne'er shed a cloot ere May is oot' was kicked into touch on Wednesday when the fifty five strong audience were met by a warm and cosy Castlehill Centre, a bit too warm in fact! With the new log boiler based heating system only being commissioned the previous day the heating control system was still in the process of final tweaking - it certainly works well!

Chairwoman Muriel Murray presented a comprehensive resume of the Society's achievements over the past year, which included a full programme of events and workshops as part of the Highland 2007 Year of Culture, completion of the building works for the Castlehill Vernacular Skills Facility and the official opening of the Centre by Lord Maclennan of Rogart in November and more recently, completion of the building works to establish a new Archaeological Research Facility within the 'long building'.

A full programme of events is now in place for 2008, which include dry stone dyking, beginners painting classes, basic fieldwork in archeology, driftwood sculpture, croft crafts and felt scarf manufacture. The major summer exhibition will be on the flagstone industry, with particular emphasis on the impact it had on Castletown and the Parish of Olrig - the birth of the village and the social implications of the rise and fall of the industry.

In presenting the accounts for 2007/08, treasurer John Moar observed that in recent times have grown in complexity due to the extensive capital works undertaken and the management of grant funds from a variety of agencies. John has stepped down as treasurer after many years service to focus on his studies. Also retiring from office was Secretary Fiona Bremner.

Interim Chairman Will Menzies presided over the election of office bearers for 2008 as follows:

Chairwoman: Muriel Murray

Vice Chairwoman: Liz Geddes

Treasurer: John Crowden

Secretary: Anne Smith

Committee: Neil Buchan, Hugh Crowden, Christine Crowden

Due process having been completed, guest speaker Dr John Barber of AOC Archaeology Group gave an informative and at times highly amusing presentation on the planned activities at the newly established Castlehill Archaeological Research Facility and the River of Stone Project. More on this later!

Photos - Left: John Barbour in action - Right: Muriel Murray, John Barber and Catherine Green, both of AOC Archeology Group

The Heat is ON!

Tuesday was an important day, thermally, for the Society when our biomass log boiler and accumulator system was fired into life for the first time. In the space of only five weeks the system has been taken from a bundle of components to a fully functioning state by Society volunteers, all working in their spare time. Peter de la Haye, renewables consultant and supplier of the system components travelled north from Duns to sunny Caithness to carry out a full system inspection and to oversee the commissioning.

Declaring the system fully fit for service and "one of the neatest installations I've ever seen" Peter handed over the completion certificate to Neil Buchan, CHS Technical Project Manager.

The BAXI 50kW log boiler operates in conjunction with a hot water accumulator which has been sized at 3,000 litre such that the boiler will only require to be fired once per day in the depth of winter. This approach will significantly reduce the operational burden on the volunteer staff manning the centre. Hot water for the underfloor heating system is drawn directly from the accumulator through a temperature balancing system. The domestic hot water is heated indirectly via a heat exchange coil within the accumulator.

The system has also been designed to accommodate future addition of other renewable energy sources, which will be developed as funds become available. Such potential sources may include solar water heating, a ground source heat pump and ultimately, a micro wind turbine.

Consistent with our aim to support our local community, logs for the system are being sourced from the Dunnet Forestry Trust.

The installation was made possible thanks to the award of a grant under the Scottish Community and Householder Renewables Initiative (SCHRI), managed by the North Highlands branch of the Highlands & Islands Community Energy Company, and match funding from the Highland Council Landward Caithness Ward 4 Discretionary Budget.

Castlehill Archaeological Research Facility

Exciting news! We are delighted to announce that the Opening of the new Castlehill Archaeological Research Facility by Miss Anne Dunnett, Lord Lieutenant of the County will take place on Thursday 24th April 2008.

The frenzy of building activity over the past few weeks is almost complete and will see a new, community-owned archaeological research facility operational within within the 'long' Castlehill building. Codenamed 'Phase 2 devlopment', the project has been undertaken by Castletown Heritage Society with financial assistance from HIE (Caithness and Sutherland) and the European Fund. The facility has been designed to process materials from excavations and its creation forms part of the River of Stone Programme, promoted by the Caithness Archaeological Trust (CAT).

This will be a collaborative venture with a commercial archaeological company, AOC Archaeology Group, assuring the viability of the project. Local community members will receive training in archaeological work and the processing of material from other excavations undertaken in Caithness, both those from within the River of Stone Programme and independent of it. Two full-time and one part-time job for local graduates will be created by AOC at the site and they will work on materials from sites excavated throughout the United Kingdom.

The Castletown site will be linked to AOC's computer network and all information will be shared in real-time. The processing to be undertaken at Castletown comprises the wet sieving and sorting of archaeological soil samples, the documentation of the results and the dispatch of materials for expert analysis, mainly at British Universities and Museums. Some routine laboratory analyses will be added to the workload following training of the staff. Processing will begin with the soil samples from the programme of broch excavation along Sinclair Bay, undertaken by the National Museum of Scotland, Nottingham University and AOC Archaeology Group.

Very shortly, CHS will also be announcing receipt of funding for a significant project on the Dunnet Bay area, also part of the River of Stone programme and of course materials from this site will also be processed at the new facility. In time, materials from many more sites will follow.

The building works have also included the creation of a new multi-purpose activity room and a large store for the extensive collection of artefacts of which Castletown Heritage is custodian.

Photos to follow after the grand opening!

Annual General Meeting

Followed by a talk

"Looking for Vikings"

by Dr John Barber, AOC Archaeology.

First public viewing of new Castlehill Archaeology Research Laboratory. Refreshments provided.

Wednesday 23rd April 2008, 7.30pm

Castlehill Heritage Centre, Harbour Road, Castletown.

Programme of events for 2008

The provisional programme of events for 2008 is now available - click here for further details.

Building on the success of last year's programme, Castletown Heritage Society will once again run a series of hands-on vernacular skills workshops, kicking off with our ever popular dry stone dying course in May.

The Society will also run a series of themed exhibitions throughout the season, the first of which appropriately enough will be an exhibition opening in May on the Flagstone Industry and it's impact on the people and the built environment of Castletown and the Parish of Olrig.

For further details of the events and confirmed dates, email: castletown.heritage@talk21.com or phone 01847 821 204. Early booking is advised to avoid disappointment.

What's going on here then?

Anyone passing by Castlehill Heritage Centre over the past few weeks is likely to have noticed a frenzy of building activity taking place in and around the Long Building. The Phase 2 development is rapidly approaching completion - but what is it all about? Come along to the AGM on Wednesday 23rd April and all will be revealed!

Biomass Heating System progress

The installation of the biomass log boiler and associated hot water accumulator is now well advanced, with all the plumbing associated with the underfloor heating system and the domestic hot water system completed. The boiler to accumulator feed circuit is also completed as far as it can be at this stage, pending final positioning of the boiler (right) which awaits delivery and installation of the flue components, anticipated later this week.

The system is being installed by Society volunteers and subject to component delivery it is hoped to have the system commissioned ahead of schedule and in time for the AGM on 23rd April.

Castletown and the Sea exhibition closes after successful run

This week-end marked the end of a very successful winter exhibition mounted by Castletown Heritage Society at our recently re-furbished premises at Castlehill. The building will now close for a few weeks to allow building work to be completed. Separate areas will be created for heritage collection storage, traditional crafts and an exciting new archaeological project, details of which will be announced shortly.

As predicted by the society, the exhibition featuring Castletown's maritime heritage created a great amount of new material and information. With the help of our web-site contacts have been made across the globe with descendants of local 19th century sea-farers, mentioned in the displays. Great interest was expressed by a specialist in ships' carvings in the figure-head of the " Flower of Olrig", and new information has been collected on sail-making and on the internal workings of lighthouses.

Perhaps the most astonishing story to be discovered, was that of "Forby" Sutherland, a native of Olrig, who was recruited by Captain James Cook, to join his South Seas expedition in 1766. Unfortunately Forby died of T.B in 1770, and was buried at Botany Bay, apparently the first white man to be buried on the east coast of Australia. CHS are currently researching the story of this son of Olrig parish.

The CHS policy to remain open to the public on Saturday and Sunday afternoons throughout the winter has proved to be both prudent and rewarding. Visitors to the winter exhibition have included locals, holiday-makers, surfers, Guides and the Dunnet Bay Beavers, whose visit featured a quiz along with Viking and pirate activities. All visitors recorded positive and encouraging comments.

Watch this space for details of the forthcoming programme of events and exhibitions for 2008.

Things are starting to hot up at Castlehill Heritage Centre

Following a successful application to the North Highlands branch of the Highlands & Islands Community Energy Company, Castletown Heritage Society has been awarded a grant under the Scottish Community and Householder Renewables Initiative (SCHRI) to support the installation of a biomass log boiler system to supply the underfloor heating and domestic hot water needs within Castlehill Heritage Centre. We are also delighted to have been awarded match funding for the above grant from the Highland Council Landward Caithness Ward 4 Discretionary Budget.

Construction of a new plant room to house the boiler, accumulator and associated equipment is now well underway and last week saw the delivery of the 3000 litre accumulator vessel and the log boiler itself. There were a few anxious moments when negotiating the accumulator through the arched access door at the end of the building, however the careful advance measurements proved to be correct and the vessel was coaxed in with literally an inch to spare!

The boiler will operate in conjunction with the hot water accumulator which has been sized at 3,000 litre such that the boiler will only require to be fired once per day in the depth of winter. This approach will significantly reduce the operational burden on the volunteer staff manning the centre. Hot water for the underfloor heating system is drawn directly from the accumulator through a temperature balancing system. The domestic hot water is heated indirectly via a heat exchange coil within the accumulator.

The proposed system has also been designed to accommodate future addition of other renewable energy sources, which will be developed as funds become available. Such potential sources may include solar water heating, a ground source heat pump and ultimately, a micro wind turbine.

Consistent with our aim to support our local community, logs for the system will be sourced from the Dunnet Forestry Trust.

To minimise expenditure, the system is being installed by skilled Society members and on completion will be inspected, commissioned and certified by registered biomass consultant and system supplier Peter de la Haye Engineering, thereby ensuring the appropriate technical, installation and system performance standards are met. It is hoped to have the system fully operational around the end of May.

For further information on the proposed development of renewable energy at the Castlehill Heritage Centre click here.

Cannon ball found in West Murkle Garden

The cannon ball on the left was found in a west Murkle garden. It weighs in at an impressive 22lbs (~10 kg) and is about 4 inches (100mm) in diameter. Local historian George Watson believes it came either from one of Cromwell's frigates in 1654 or from John Gow's pirate ship in 1724. The smaller ball on the right is about 2 inches in diameter. Both are remarkably well preserved and are on display as part of the Castletown at Sea exhibition currently running at the Castlehill Heritage Centre (weekends 1-3pm).

If anyone can shed any further light on the nature or history of these artefacts, please get in touch.

Committee Christmas Dinner

Yesterday evening the Castletown Heritage Society committee members and their partners took a well earned break from their duties and efforts with a Christmas dinner at the St Clair Arms Hotel in Castletown.

After a first class meal courtesy of Andrew Mackay and his team we were entertained by John Innes and his karaoke extravaganza. Whilst we perhaps might have chosen to sit other than directly in front of the PA system, we had a ring-side seat to watch the star performers, first prize for which must go to a group of teachers from Thurso High School. Also in atttendance were the committee and helpers from Castletown Play Group. All in all a thoroughly enjoyable evening!

Sair heids aside it was back to business today with the Castlehill Centre open from 1pm to 3pm every Saturday and Sunday over the winter season. The current main feature is an exhibition exploring the fascinating relationship between Castletown and the Parish of Olrig and the sea. We will be open on Boxing Day if you are out and about walking off the excesses of Christmas Day!

Figurehead from the schooner 'Flower of Olrig'

The long held aspirations of Castletown Heritage Society to create a multi-purpose exhibition and vernacular skills centre were finally realised today when Lord Maclennan of Rogart performed the official Opening Ceremony at the Castlehill Heritage Centre.

A large audience of invited guests and visitors turned out to hear Chairwoman Muriel Murray explain how the Centre had been developed through the hard work and dedication of Society members, friends and supporters, including a number of local contractors and suppliers. She also thanked the various organisations who lent financial support, either directly (Highland 2007 Community Fund and Lottery Fund Awards for All) or in kind (UKAEA Dounreay, Invisible Heating Systems and Caithness Stone Industries) through the generous donation of materials.

In his speech, Lord Maclennan paid tribute to the vision and dedication of the Society, whose drive and enthusiasm had been recognised as a leading inspiration for the North Highland Initiative.

A key feature of the opening ceremony was the launch of Castletown and the Sea - an exhibition exploring the fascinating relationship between Castletown and the Parish of Olrig and the sea - the Viking landings, the export of Flagstone from Castlehill Harbour to as far afield as Argentina, India and Australia, local heroes of the high seas, fishing, the many ships that foundered in the area, wartime events and more.

In declaring the centre open Lord Maclennan reflected that the content of the exhibition demonstrated the adaptabilty and resourcefulness of the local population throughout history to the present day.

The exhibition and Heritage Centre will be open from 1pm to 3pm every Saturday and Sunday over the winter and other times by arrangement.

Chairwoman Muriel Murray

Lord Maclennan of Rogart

The Centre is officially declared open!

A steady stream of visitors arrived throughout the afternoon

Products from Joanne Karr's workshop on paper making

Open Day and display of results from the Vernacular Skills Workshops.

Sat 27 October 2007

In stark contrast to the damp and dreich weather, a warm welcome awaited everyone who came along to the Open Day on Saturday 27th October.

On display were examples of what was achieved during the vernacular skills workshops held as part of the Highland 2007 Year of Culture Community Programme. Many of the workshop tutors were on hand to explain the techniques and skills used including Joanne Karr, Nona Mackay and the ladies of Murkle Rural, and Ann Johnston, whose sessions on spinning and carding were very popular.

Visitors were also able to view the latest progress in developing the Castlehill Heritage Centre, including the access arrangements through the garden courtyard.

Click here for a full report on each of the skills workshops, or click on the Highland 2007 tab above.

Treadle powered wood working lathe and samples of work by local craftsman Alan Jones.

The access path through the garden is now all but complete - well done Hugh and Muriel!

Chairwoman Muriel Murray describes the layout of the water channel which runs to the south of Castlehill House grounds and which fed the flagstone works and the farm mill via a diverter sluice. The mill channel runs through the Heritage Centre grounds.

The site of the main stone cutting machines and overshot water wheel

John Crowden describes the linear layout of the stone cutting machines. The two dam discharge pipes that powered the overshot wheel can be seen in the background

The interlocking structure of the drainage channel from the flagstone works has stood the test of time and the ravages of the Pentland Firth

Castletown Heritage contributes to Highland Archaeology Fortnight 07 October 2007

One of the tourist attractions available to visitors to the French capital is a visit to " les Egouts de Paris" commonly billed as the "Sewers of Paris". The trip takes tourists down the many underground channels under the streets. These contain not the effluent of the city but the pipes and cables carrying power and communications, electricity ,gas, water, telephone and television services.

A similar experience awaited those intrepid walkers who joined Castletown Heritage on a tour of the network of underground water channels which were constructed in the early 19th century to bring water power to the village water mills and flagstone works.

The natural supplies from Ruther Myre and the Loch of Durran were harnessed by means of dams, sluices and mill lades. The construction of these channels is of remarkable standard, using the local stone in horizontal and vertical settings. In places the underground water ways are high enough to walk through.

Sadly many of the channels and underground works are now overgrown and damaged but the quality, ingenuity and extent of the engineered structures can be readily appreciated.

Contributing greatly to the enjoyment of the afternoon's explorations was the presence of local historian George Watson and archaeologist Paul Humphreys, who brought their combined historical and engineering knowledge into play.

The day was judged to have been stimulating, raising more questions and areas for investigation than answers and easy explanations.

Underfloor heating pipes in place, ready for cement grout pour

Neil in action fixing the pipework. The reflective boiler suit is handy in the dark evenings....

James Henderson in action skimming the top soil

"That's a grand machine that" - "Aye" - "You're no far wrong"

When finished, the cleared area will be the disabled car park

Hugh directs Gordon as he pours clean metal into the drain trench

Gordon gets to grips with the tracked excavator

James shows how it should be done

Recycled demolition rubble being used to raise the finished level in the courtyard

Still some way to go, but the courtyard is starting to take shape

Mystery Object unveiled

Visitors on the Doors Open Day were challenged to identify a mystery object, seen here atop a wash tub. Therein lies the answer for we can reveal that the device was the agitator for the fore-runner of the modern washing machine. Rotating the handle activates an ingenious mechanism which produces an oscillating (self reversing) motion on a pair of paddles attached to the central shaft and immersed within the washing.

Well done to all who took part in the challenge, although no-one managed to guess correctly!

Doors Open Day - Saturday 8 September

A pleasing number of interested visitors took advantage of Doors Open Day to call in to Castlehill Heritage Centre. On display were reminders of some of the traditional skills common in the village in bygone days, side by side with examples of work done during the summer traditional skills workshops run by CHS.

We were delighted to welcome both local people and visitors from further afield such as Ross-shire and Sutherland. Prize for the most distant visitors goes to Canadian Marilyn Mowat and her sister from Mission, British Columbia. For Marilyn it was a nostalgic voyage of discovery as her great great grandfather had lived in Castletown. George Mowat, a shoemaker married the girl next door Jane Sutherland in the Free Church, Thurso in the mid 1800s. Most of the family eventually emigrated but David and William stayed. Robert Mowat farmed West Mey and his daughter married Alec Nicolson. If these names seem familiar to you get in touch with CHS and we will pass on the info to Marilyn. castletown.heritage@talk21.com

Good news for aspiring Drystone Dykers

For anyone who missed or was unable to attend one of our series of Drystone Dyking training courses and can't wait until our next course next year, fear not! Dave Goulder, master craftsman, will shortly be holding a two day training course based in Dunbeath. For further details contact Augusta Hutt by email on ahutt@freeuk.com.

Castletown Drill Hall was the location of the launch by HRH the Prince of Wales of an important initiative which is sure to have a positive effect on the future of the village.

The North Highland Initiative has already had success both in raising the profile of local produce through the Mey Selections brand name and in working to realise the potential of long-term tourism growth in the north. Now a Built Environment Advisory Group has been established to explore the under-developed potential of the built heritage in the far north.

Representatives from Castletown Heritage joined a range of residents, business people, farmers, planners and others with an interest in Castletown, first at a Scoping Meeting and later at a 3- day Enquiry by Design workshop. Using their inside knowledge of the village CHS members were able to guide the others round the many interesting buildings and tell them the story of Castletown's past.

Prior to formally launching the new venture HRH Prince Charles, the Duke of Rothesay, joined the groups who were working on various aspects of possible plans and lay-outs for a sustainable future for the village. Click here for a link to the Prince's speech.

The North Highland Initiative hopes that "the radical approach being taken at Castletown to forge a long-term plan for regeneration will become a model for the entire region and beyond."

Two evening public meetings were well attended and the follow-up report on progress is awaited in September or early October.

Click on these links for further information on:

The Prince's Foundation For The Built Environment

The Prince's Regeneration Trust

Muriel Murray and Liz Geddes at the Scoping Meeting, exploring potential opportunities for the regeneration of Castletown

Photograph courtesy of The Prince's Foundation

New access path leading down the courtyard to what will be the main access door to exhibition area (visible above in the corner just beyond the drystone wall partitioning the patio area)

Progress at Castlehill Centre - 19 August 2007

When snatches of decent weather allow, Hugh and his team have been busy creating the access path that will ultimately lead visitors from a new gate to be created in the south wall of the courtyard (next to the 'Flower of Olrig' feature) through the heritage garden area to the main entrance of the Vernacular Skills facility and exhibition space.

Hugh has also been busy constructing the final part of the first phase of the conversion works - the creation of an atmospherically controlled archive store for the extensive collection of artefacts owned by Castletown Heritage Society. In common with the other areas in the Centre, the Archive Store will feature an underfloor heating system designed and supplied by Invisible Heating Systems of Ullapool.

Construction underway of insulated, fireproof walls in Archive Store

This week's mystery photo

Castletown Heritage is deeply indebted to Sena Leitch and the family of the late Sinclair Gunn of Castletown in allowing the Society to take custody of the artefacts accumulated by Sinclair Gunn during his lifetime, such that the people of the village and others may benefit from seeing what is truly an eclectic collection - everything from matchboxes to mangles!

Among the many diverse items discovered in various sheds and cupboards were boxes of glass negatives that offer an intriguing glimpse into life in Castletown almost 90 years ago. It was a privilege to be offered Sinclair's collection, but a particular one to be party to the photographs, which after all allow us to share intimate family moments.

In 2005 we published a selection of the photographs as a calendar and whilst we were able to trace the background to most of the images, this one has left us puzzled.

Can you help us identify the location or the story behind the photograph? If so, we would be delighted to hear from you.

If you can help, please contact us at: castletown.heritage@talk21.com

Flagstone Village Book

Now available on CD ROM

Our comprehensive and highly popular 144 page illustrated book (ISBN 0-9542738-0-X) on the history of the village and parish is now available to purchase on CD ROM, priced at £15 plus post & packing.

To order your copy please contact: castletown.heritage@talk21.com

Annual General Meeting

Wednesday 25 April 07

Feedback was very positive from the large crowd of attendees at the Castletown Heritage Annual General Meeting which was held in the newly opened Castlehill Heritage Centre. In presenting her annual report Chairwoman Muriel Murray reflected on what had been achieved through the hard work and dedication of members and their families. Whilst some minor finishing is still to be completed, the Vernacular Skills centre is now fully operational and had hosted the very successful Rope, Basket and Paper Making workshop over the previous week. Future plans already under consideration include developing a further part of the building in conjunction with the River of Stone archeological project.

The eclectic collection of artefacts gathered by the Society over the years will now be progressively transferred to the building, catalogued and put on display in a series of themed exhibitions, the first of which will be held later in the year on the theme Castletown and the Sea.

The guest speaker for the evening was Nan Bethune of Dunbeath Preservation Trust who delivered a fascinating insight into Caithness place names with Pictish derivations.

The following office bearers were duly elected to serve for the 07/08 session:

Chairwoman: Muriel Murray

Vice Chair: Elizabeth Geddes

Secretary: Fiona Wares

Treasurer: John Moar

Committee: Neil Buchan, Christine Crowden, Hugh Crowden, Anne Smith, Agnes Swanson

Muriel Murray discussing recent acquisitions with Gordon Calder

Nan Bethune in action

AGM photos courtesy of Sheila Moir

South end of Vernacular Skills area approaching completion.

Now where does this bit go?

David Swanson installing handrails on the disabled access ramp

Castlehill update - 17 Apr 07

Last minute preparations and finishing works are in hand to have the Vernicular Skills Facility within Castlehill Heritage Centre operational by Thursday 19th April in time for the first of a series of workshops organised as part of the Highland 2007 Community Programme.

The flagstone floor is complete bar some grouting, access and fire doors now installed and operational, fire alarm system installed and commissioning underway, plumbing works approaching completion, disabled access ramps completed and general finishing in hand. The list of minor snagging identified during the building works control inspection earlier this week is all but complete and subject to a satisfactory drains test on Wednesday 18th it should be all systems go for Thursday opening.

Whilst the vast majority of the work has been done by our willing band of volunteers we have been very grateful for the last minute support of Barnies Electrical, O'Brien Construction and Corrie Plumbing for their assistance in ensuring the opening deadline will be met.

New main access fire doors and disabled access ramp

John Moar commissioning the fire alarm system

Disabled toliet complete and ready for finishing

Muriel presenting John with a farewell gift from the Society

(Sorry about the poor quality of the photograph - that reflective jacket really confused the camera!)

Aberdeen 1 Castletown 0 - 29 March 07

Aberdeen's gain is very much Castletown's loss as John Crowden, Secretary and long time stalwart of Castletown Heritage Society handed in his resignation at the committee meeting on Thursday 29 March. John is heading off to a new job in the Silver City and to mark the occasion Muriel Murray, Chairwoman, presented John with a farewell gift and card.

John has been an active member of the Society from its earliest days and has been involved in most things the Society has done over the years, from establishing the Heritage Trail and production of various publications to the recent building works at Castlehill. Whatever needed to be done John could be counted on to wield a spade, screw driver, hammer, pen or whatever was required to tackle the job in hand.

We wish him well in his new job in Aberdeen.

Installation of the underfloor heating pipework and flagstone progresses in a phased manner

Flagstone floor underway - 27 March 07

With the lining out and painting of vernacular skills centre all but complete, work has started to lay a genuine Caithness flagstone floor which will be a distinctive and highly appropriate feature of the finished facility. Prior to laying the stone, high efficiency floor insulation slabs were laid and the underfloor heating pipework clipped to the top surface. This is an interesting task in itself due to the pipe having at times a mind of its own!

The materials for the underfloor heating system were sourced from Invisible Heating Systems in Ullapool who were not only very competitive, but have been extremely helpful in designing the system and providing installation advice.

The flagstone, which again has been sourced locally - from Caithness Stone Industries - is nominally 25mm thick and has been supplied cut to a size appropriate to ensure compliance with the HSE Manual Handling Regulations. Approximately one quarter of the floor area has now been laid thanks to Hugh's sterling work and already it is starting to look really impressive!

Knit one, purl one anyone?

Clearing the collapsed channel

Gordon gets well stuck in

Drains come to life at Castlehill - 18 March 07

The good weather in March has enabled outside work to progress at Castlehill. To the north of the building the soil drain biodigester has been coupled up, ready for connection of the control system.

To the south of the building the approach area has been cleared, new hardcore laid and the construction of a wheelchair access ramp built out of reclaimed Caithness flagstone is underway, ready for the first events in April.

To the south and east, existing eighteenth century building drains have been refurbished to improve drainage in front of the main entrance door and within the courtyard area. The drains, which were found to be channelled out of the solid rock in some areas were in the form of a box channel constructed out of flagstone and in most areas were still draining freely, but a section in the centre of the courtyard had collapsed at some time in the past, resulting in the water draining from the approach area backing up and seeping into the courtyard. This has now been remedied with new drainage pipe installed with the assistance and expert guidance of James Henderson. The difference in the courtyard is noticeable already!

Castlehill Harbour winter scene

Salmon nets at Castlehill

Carters loading flagstone at Castlehill early twentieth century

Help us chart Castletown's nautical history

We have just embarked on an exciting new project to explore the fascinating relationship between Castletown and the Parish of Olrig and the sea (apart that is from the stunning views over Dunnet Bay) - the Viking landings, the export of Flagstone from Castlehill Harbour to as far afield as Argentina, India and Australia, local heroes of the high seas, fishing, the many ships that foundered in the area, and there's more....we know there is! Did Cromwell's warships land here? Did the Armada pass by?

We would be delighted to hear from anyone who can help us capture and preserve Castletown's nautical history, the results of which we hope to present as a themed exhibition later in the year.

Perhaps you have some artefacts related to the sea or a relative past or present from the area who was a sailor, built or repaired boats, salvaged wrecks, fished, emigrated from the area or served in the maritime forces during wars or other military campaigns.

Any information, be it fact or folklore would be most welcome. Contact us at: castletown.heritage@talk21.com

Progress at Castlehill Heritage Centre - 4 March 07

As our Chairwoman Muriel Murray observed this morning, one can not help but be impressed with progress over the past few weeks in the main exhibition and skills workshop area. The framing round the walls and ceiling has been completed with high thermal efficiency insulation between the studs, lighting and emergency lighting is in place and operational. Wiring for power and the computer network has been laid in and the task of lining out with plasterboard, taping and filling is well advanced. Elsewhere in the building painting and finishing is underway in the office and the toilets.

The next major step is to lay the floor insulation, instal the underfloor heating pipework then lay the new Caithness Flagstone floor, which will be a feature in itself. When the floor is in place, work can start on installing some modest kitchen facilities at the north end of the area.

The end objective is to have the facility ready in early April for the first of the series of courses and workshops that will be held as part of Highland 2007:

Rope, basket, and paper making workshop. Thursday 19th, Friday 20th April and Monday 23rd, Tuesday 24th April 2007.

For further information on this and other courses, workshops and activities planned during 2007 please contact: castletown.heritage@talk21.com

Muriel and Hugh hard at it

Plasterboarding well advanced

Starting to look really good!

Sinclairs of Coulag

From the other side of the world in New Zealand we have recently received information on the Sinclair family, who used to farm at the Coulag, Castletown in the 1800's. Some of the sons emigrated to New Zealand in the mid 1800's and started farming at Cheviot, South Island. The family later paid for the erection of a headstone on their mother's and father's grave in Olrig Cemetry. Earlier this year Doug Archibald, the great-great-great-grandson of John Sinclair, farmer of the Coulag, visited the grave of his ancester who died on 29th July 1870 aged 70 years. Having spoken to a committee member of Castletown Heritage Society he later sent us a copy of the history of the Sinclairs in new Zealand which mentions their roots in Caithness.

Work forges ahead at the Castlehill Heritage Centre

Work to create a sustainable venue within the Castlehill Heritage Centre for the development and delivery of events and training workshops featuring local and vernacular skills has started in earnest thanks to the voluntary skills and expertise of a dedicated band of committee members and supporters. A full security system has now been installed and the main training area and exhibition space is starting to take shape.

If you live locally, have construction/DIY skills to offer and can spare a few hours to lend a hand your support would be very welcome. Contact castletown.heritage@talk21.com

RAF Castletown Walk.

As part of Scottish Archeology month and Highland Archeology Fortnight, Castletown Heritage Society organised a walk around RAF Castletown. Known locally as Thurdistoft, the walk was led by Andrew Gutteridge who has an amazing knowledge of Caithness and the Second World War. The walk took us from the support areas such as the parachute packing shed and transport workshops to the ammunition stores, fuel stores and decontamination building where servicemen would be decontaminated after a gas attack. We then moved on to the airfield proper and visited the sites of the airplane stances, runways and the maintenance hangers before finishing at the firing ranges, where the aim of aircraft gins was checked prior to being declared fully operational.

During the early war years the airfield was a rather bleak site with grass runways and tents as accommodation, but as the years passed more modern facilities and comforts were introduced.

You can read a full account of the history of RAF Castletown in our booklet 'Castletown Recalls 1939-1945'.

Kirkular Tour

In support of the Highland Archeology Fortnight, Castletown Heritage Society organised a 'Kirkular Tour' of the ecclesiastical sites of Olrig Parish, exploring the fascinating history of Christian worship from Pictish times to the modern day.

An informative booklet is available from Castletown Heritage Society for £4.00 + postage and packing.

Quiz Night & Stovies Evening

On Friday 28th April 2006, Castletown Heritage Society held a fund raising Quiz and Stovies Night in the Drill Hall, Castletown. Sandy McWhirter, Socio-Economic Development Manager, UKAEA, Dounreay acted as compere for the evening, keeping everyone entertained while he put eight teams through their paces on subjects as diverse as Sport, Geography, Entertainment, Words & Language, Local History and General Knowledge. In what proved to be a closely fought but thoroughly enjoyable evening, the local team from the Highlander Cafe just managed to scrape victory by half a point over the 'Tattie Howkers' from Thurso. Each member of the winning team received a unique trophy - a replica ceramic model of the Wind Pump tower at Castlehill mounted on a flagstone base. The highly detailed and original trophies were hand made by Mrs Elizabeth Moar and her son John.

The winning Highlander Cafe team.

From the left:

Carol Scorer, Helen Sutherland, Elsa Swanson, Andrew Campbell, Sandy McWhirter.

Castletown Showcase

In January 2006 Castletown Heritage Society supported the Castletown Community Council's Castletown Showcase day held in the Drill Hall. The well attended event provided the opportunity for all the local community based organisations to 'showcase' their aims, objectives and achievements. On display at the Castletown Heritage zone were a range of local artefacts, photographs and details of the proposed Castlehill Heritage Centre.

The Castletown Heritage display.