Dateline: 11 July 2025 |
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Castlehill Heritage Centre closed on Saturday 19 July
Service resumes as normal the next day on Sunday 20 July! We look forward to seeing you there! |
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Dateline: 03 July 2025 |
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NORSE STONE workforce visit Castlehill Heritage CentreThere was no need to explain the nature of flagstone to the group visiting Castlehill Heritage Centre this week. Michael Ronaldson and his workforce from NORSE STONE represent one of the remaining flagstone businesses in the county. Working in their quarries at Lieurary and Banniskirk, they were well acquainted with the modern methods of quarrying, cutting and dressing the stone, but we were able to surprise them with stories of working conditions, techniques and transportation of stone from Castlehill Harbour in the 1800s. Their visit was an excellent opportunity for us at Castlehill to learn from those involved in the industry in the present day. Our collection of fossils was also of interest to them, many of the visitors having come across examples in the course of their work. |
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Dateline: 03 July 2025 |
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Latest podcast - Hugh Ross Alan
Whilst researching the history of his house in Dunnet, local historian Drew Gutteridge uncovers the fascinating story of a previous resident - Hugh Ross Alan, who was a marine salvage diver and decorated WWII hero. Click
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Dateline: 02 July 2025 |
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New Castletown Heritage Society Facebook page launched
Make sure to Like, Friend and Follow to keep up with all the latest news!
= = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = Castlehill Heritage Garden is blooming lovely!On a sunny day like today the courtyard Heritage Garden at Castlehill Heritage Centre was definitely the place to be. Christine, our volunteer gardener, really has been working her magic! |
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Dateline: 22 June 2025 |
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Flagstones Stories Exhibition opens at Castlehill
Exhibition open every Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday afternoons between 2pm and 4pm at Castlehill Heritage Centre. |
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Dateline:15 June 2025 |
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Open Day at Castlehill Heritage Centre a great success!It was the last day of the "Moving in, Moving on" exhibition. To mark the occasion CHS offered a variety of activities. As well as the display on immigration and emigration, and the much appreciated World War Two display, the North Highland Wood-Turners opened their studio to visitors. Visitors had the chance to enter a quiz on the stories featured in the current display and the opportunity to plot on a world map where John Polson might have emigrated to in the 1800s. Identifying by-gone tools and implements was easy enough for more mature visitors but taxed the imagination of the young. Fossil fish rubbing with wax crayons entertained some, while budding archaeologists were able to use a trowel to reveal the hidden artefacts in the sand trays.
Genealogy is one of the lesser known areas of our activities. On display were three examples of recent family history enquiries. One from England referred to the Campbell family from the Castlehill lodge. We were able to send them many details of the family and where they went. A second enquirer from Canada was seeking information on a James Lumsden, grandson of the village blacksmith in the 1800s. A full life-story was found and even surviving relatives still living in the village A third came from a Londoner now 83, billeted on a "kind and hospitable" local farming family during the war. Not only did we find the family -the Weirs -and the farm at Tain of Olrig but we were able to trace their history back to Stroma. We were delighted to put on show, courtesy of Sheena Budge, the family cradle made in 1861, obviously home-made, probably using drift-wood from the Stroma shore. It is thanks to our collection of objects donated to us by local people, that we can bring to life these family stories. To complete the day a selection of delicious home-baking was provided by our volunteers to accompany a cup of tea or coffee. Result of the "Plot the Spot where John Polson emigrated" competition: The winner was Luca whose sticker was closest. John Polson used his master's certificate to become a pilot on Puget Bay, living in the new settlement of Seattle. |
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Dateline: 3 June 2025 |
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Lots of fun activities for adults and children, such as "Were you paying attention?" - a quiz based on the exhibition, "What's that old object for?", Plot the Spot - where did John Omand emigrate to? Pack your kist - draw what you would take in your emigrant's kist - in 1850 and now. Have a go at sand tray archaeology. An ideal opportunity to get some insight into the wide range of activities Castletown Heritage Society does. *! Free entry with tea/coffee and home-bakes !* |
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Dateline: 2 June 2025 |
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Extraordinary General Meeting - success!A welcome number of members, friends and supporters attended the EGM of Castletown Heritage Society last week. As a result a full complement of office-bearers and committee members was elected allowing the continued running of the Society and Castlehill Heritage Centre. This included two new committee members. In addition a satisfying number of people volunteered their services in a wide range of ways. It was pleasing to have such a substantial turn-out reflecting local support. Newly elected Chairman Roy Blackburn thanked all who attended and particularly to those who offered their help. |
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Dateline: 1 June 2025 |
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Latest podcast - Donald's Military Career
Click
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Dateline: 06 May 2025 |
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Extraordinary General Meeting - 7.30 pm 29 May 25
If you would like to attend the EGM via Zoom, please contact us |
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Dateline: Sunday 27 April 2025 |
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Ironwork WorkshopMany thanks to all the volunteers who participated in our recent work afternoon. Great progress was made. Our collection of early flatirons and the selection of cobbler's lasts received some TLC. Look out for details of the next open work day. Come and join us! If you would like to know more about our workshops and activities, please do get in touch with us! |
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Dateline: Thursday 10 April 2025 |
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Looking cool at the Moving In, Moving on exhibition This delightful group of visitors from Sri Lanka enjoyed dressing up as 1900s emigrants. Castlehill Heritage Centre is open from 2 pm to 4 pm every Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday. |
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Dateline: Sunday 30 March 2025 |
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Open WorkshopCome along to our open workshop on Tuesday 8th April at Castlehill Heritage Centre. We will be cleaning, de-rusting and polishing up some of the metal artefacts in our fascinating collection. Tools, gloves etc will be provided. Tea and coffee on tap. Join us to work or pop in for a chat. 2pm to 4 pm. If you can't make Tuesday but would still like to help, please do get in touch with us! |
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Dateline: Thursday 27 March 2025 |
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Latest Mystery Object Challenge The object pictured right was spotted recently standing proud in the banks of the Burn of Garth. Not completely identical and rather more corroded, but potentially used for the same purpose? If you can guess the purpose of these objects, or have a story to tell about them, please do get in touch with us! |
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Dateline: Thursday 27 February 2025 |
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Recent Visiting Groups at Castlehill Heritage CentreIn addition to the steady stream of tourists and local visitors during our normal opening hours, Castlehill Heritage Centre regularly hosts visits by local groups.
Earlier in the month we were delighted to invite fellow heritage sector volunteers from the Wick Society, and Halkirk Heritage and Vintage Vehicle Society to a conservation workshop. Will Murray from the Scottish Conservation Studio shared his vast experience of the care, protection and storage of metal, wood and leather objects in heritage collections. = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = =
The garden is tended by our volunteers, led by Christine, who ensures that a stunning display is on show to welcome visitors throughout the year. The afternoon cream teas held on the patio every Sunday in August are a particular delight! |
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Dateline: Sunday 09 February 2025 |
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Latest Podcast - The Life and Times of Traill Hall
= = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = Evening Talk - Stanergill Castle
Did this castle give the village its name? Where was it? What did it look like? Who built it? Come along and find out! Tuesday 18 March at 7.30pm in Castlehill Heritage Centre = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = Exhibition - Moving in, Moving on
Learn also about some of those who travelled here to settle in and around our Parish on a temporary or permanent basis. Open 2pm - 4pm every Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday afternoons. Other times by arrangement. |
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Dateline: Friday 07 February 2025 |
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Castletown Walking Group at CastlehillCastletown Walking Group meet every Wednesday outside the Drill Hall in Castletown at 10.30am before heading off to explore the local area. Absolutely anyone is welcome, no matter age or ability. The walking group allows the opportunity to get out of the house and get some fresh air and catch up with friends and family in a safe environment and surroundings. Anyone is welcome to just turn up on the day. The group meet after the walk at various locations in Castletown for a brew and a natter too, and on Wednesday this week we were delighted to welcome them to Castlehill Heritage Centre for a cuppa and some of Helen's home made pancakes. If you would like more information about the group contact Pat Groves at patgrovesuk@yahoo.co.uk |
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Dateline: Sunday 12 January 2025 |
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It's a wiffletree! The other object (left) is an iron stamp called a 'buist', and is used for marking livestock, or possibly sacks, using tar or paint. = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = Sewing machine brought back to life
If the dating of our machine is correct, then it may well be that it is one of the earliest machines manufactured in Scotland at the original factory. = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = Pastimes from Past Times will soon be in the past!Our current exhibition, 'Pastimes from Past Times' has proven to be very popular, but the time approaches to move on to a different theme. We are in the process of preparing our next offering, so if you haven't explored the Pastimes on display then time is running out! Castlehill Heritage Centre is open every Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday afternoons from 2 pm to 4 pm. = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = Beardychiel!
Hear his fascinating story at this afternoon talk at Castlehill Heritage Centre at 2 pm on Tuesday 28 January. |
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Dateline: Monday 2 December 2024 |
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Mystery Objects and Boxing Day Opening
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Dateline: Monday 2 December 2024 |
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Sweet music and our new podcast booklet at Castlehill We know from our platform analytics that there have been almost 1200 downloads of episodes from our Olrig Observations series of podcasts - fantastic! Each podcast explores a variety of topics, ranging from objects of interest and stories of characters from history, to reminisences about past events of importance or amusement! Created by our volunteer members, each podcast offers a sometimes personal glimpse into some aspect of the social, industrial, agricultural, maritime, military and archaeological heritage of the village of Castletown within the Parish of Olrig in Caithness. All episodes are available to listen by clicking here or via the 'Podcasts and Videos' tab above.
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Dateline: Tuesday 29 October 2024 |
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Beekeepers Workshop at CastlehillA large number of beekeepers and their families took part in a recent workshop at Castlehill organised by Olrig and District Beekeeping Association. Under the watchful eye of tutor Bryce Reynard they learned the art of constructing traditional bee-skeps from straw. Some participants also made straw hats with the same material. The photos below show the beekeepers hard at work.
Look out for more of the beekeepers' activities based at Castlehill Heritage Centre. |
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Dateline: Tuesday 22 October 2024 |
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Pastimes from Past Times Exhibition From sport to music, handicrafts, and everything in between, the exhibition features articles, photographs and artefacts from recent times to a bygone age. As usual, Castlehill Heritage Centre will be open from 2pm to 4pm every Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday afternoon throughout the winter period (Christmas Day and New Year's day excepted). |
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Dateline: Tuesday 15 October 2024 |
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Caithness & Sutherland Vintage & Classic Vehicle Club visits Castlehill By the end of the visit the volunteers at Castlehill had renewed old acquaintances, made many new contacts and were able to share stories of the flagstone industry, and the Second World War and its local impact. Also on display was our recently curated collection of fossils from Caithness and Sutherland, donated by the family of renowned amateur palaeontologist Jack Saxon. With the visitors' interest in engines it is probably fair to say that the star attraction for most was our Rolls Royce Merlin engine from a war-time Hurricane aircraft. On hearing that the topic for the next exhibition was to be "Pastimes in past times", some of our weekend visitors immediately offered to contribute objects to the display. This is the spirit of collaboration from the public that makes Castlehill Heritage Centre such an interesting place to visit. |
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Dateline: Friday 20 September 2024 |
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40th Anniversary Photo Competition Winner!Over the summer months, as part of our activities to celebrate the 40th birthday of Castletown Heritage Society, we have been running a Photography Competition, the aim of which was to encourage children and young adults under 18 to become more aware of our wonderful Caithness landscapes, people and heritage. The results, as they say, are now in! We are delighted to announce that Castletown youngster Jack Robertson was the winner with his entries in the landscape and heritage categories, both of which had a sea theme. The judges were impressed with his entries and offered helpful comments on how he could improve his technique even further.
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Dateline: Wednesday 07 August 2024 |
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Renovation of the old mill at Stanergill progressing well The latest collaboration is evident in the firm's new product - a blended whisky aptly called Castletown Mill, whose labelling features James Traill of Rattar and Castlehill with the House at Castlehill in the background. |
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Dateline: Wednesday 17 July 2024 |
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Mystery Object - Can you help identify it?Whilst sorting through our eclectic collection of artefacts, we were puzzled as to the purpose of this object. The nameplate on the top states that is was manufactured by Melvin Bros Ltd, Causewayside, Edinburgh, and may date from the late 1940s/early 1950s. There is a perforated container set into the top surface (a strainer?) which is closed off by a sliding flat plate. There is a tubular canvas bag between the top and bottom wooden plates, with a hose connection at the edge of the bottom plate. There are two 'D' rings on the top surface - might this suggest that it is intended to be worn on the body using a strap of some sort? All suggestions welcome! If you think you are able to help us identify the object and it's purpose, please get in touch by email, or why not drop into Castlehill Heritage Centre for a closer look? We are open every Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday afternoons from 2pm - 4pm.
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Dateline: Monday 27 May 2024 |
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40 Years and still going strong! An evening
of reminiscences was arranged to which were invited people who had contributed
to the acquiring and restoration of the former farm steading close to
the site of the flagstone works. Thanks to them contributing time and
expertise the rough walled dairy was transformed into a bright, vibrant
community led heritage centre. Hugh had no hesitation in choosing Neil
Buchan to lead the audience through the forty year life span of the society.
It was particularly gratifying to welcome back John Crowden, John Moar, Gordon Buchan, David Swanson who along with Hugh and Neil were the main construction volunteers, plus Tony Birdsall of A J Building Services, who supported us in creating our Archaeological Research Facility. Roy Blackburn joined the team for later phases of works.
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Dateline: Saturday 25 May 2024 |
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Drew Guttridge reflects on RAF CastletownOur friends at Wick Heritage Society have amassed a fantastic collection of 'Wick Voices' - audio recordings of people describing aspects of their life or interests in respect of the social heritage of Wick and Caithness in general. One of their latest offerings is by Drew Guttridge from Dunnet, in which he reflects on the impact of the WWII fighter airfield RAF Castletown, and the many personnel associated with it, on the village of Castletown during WWII. He also describes his role in the steering group for the recently launched Caithness At War heritage trail project. To listen to Drew's recording, click here: https://www.wickvoices.co.uk/voices_listen.php?id=1405202420120111572 = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = Latest podcast now available
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Dateline: Tuesday 21 May 2024 |
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Ramsay Macdonald film premiere a reflective success The name Ramsay MacDonald, the first Labour Prime Minister, probably rings a distant bell with most. Having watched the film on his life curated by Yvonne Lindsay at Castlehill last night we were struck by the similarities endured by present day politicians. Torn by conflicting political ideals, hounded by opponents, the victim of vandalism on his home, ostracised by one time allies, accused of cronyism. But it is the domestic realities faced by this man, who as Prime Minister of Great Britain and with little or no income, found himself as a widower with a young family which made an impact on the audience. No 10 Downing Street was at the time was unfurnished. Ramsay's young daughter clad in a home knitted cardigan had to act as hostess at her father's side entertaining all manner of dignitaries. Yvonne's film which included family cine film and was narrated by family members and old friends of Macdonald surviving at the time, brought the political and personal life of this unusual man to life. The fact that the audience left with much to reflect on, is testament to a well thought out presentation. |
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Dateline: Wednesday 01 May 2024 |
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40th Anniversary Photography Competition Launched! The competition is open to all amateur photographers aged 17 years or under and is free to enter. Full details, rules and entry form can be downloaded HERE, requested by email, or collected from Castlehill Heritage Centre. Get snapping! |
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Dateline: 24 April 2024 |
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Castletown Heritage Society AGM 2024 The Annual General Meeting of Castletown Heritage Society took place at Castlehill Heritage Centre on Wednesday 24 April 2024 at 7.30pm. Approximately twenty persons were in attandance. Following acceptance of the Chairman's Report presented by outgoing Chairman Hugh Crowden, and the Annual Accounts by Hon Treasurer Helen Gunn, Neil Buchan took the chair as Interim Chairman for the election of the following officers and members of the Management Committee:
The formal business of the meeting being over, the audience were treated to a very entertaining and informative presentation by Isobel and Angela from Above and Beyond Tours of Caithness. If you would like to get involved with, or wish to find out more about the activities of Castletown Heritage Society, please contact us HERE. |
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Dateline: Wednesday 13 March 2024 |
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Flow Country talk a great success
If you missed this one, Milly is returning in the autumn. She should have news of their UNESCO Heritage Site bid. |
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Dateline: Saturday 2 March 2024 |
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WWII Coastal Watcher memorabilia donation
We at Castlehill were particularly delighted to accept the objects on long term loan as a new display area in the centre is almost ready for visitors. This will focus on the role of RAF Castletown and the impact the WWII had on the life of the village. Dorothy Calder's memorabilia will help to complete this story. |
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Dateline: Friday 1 March 2024 |
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Standing room only at Drew's talk!
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Dateline: Wednesday 07 February 2024 |
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Watch Out - Latest Podcast
= = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = Evening talk on RAF Castletown - Tuesday 27 February 7.30 pm Drew Guttridge reveals the fascinating story of RAF Castletown - its birth, facilities, operations and demise. |
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Dateline: Sunday 07 January 2024 |
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All at Sea at Castlehill
“All at sea” will look at the maritime heritage of the area with stories of heroes and villains at sea, the earliest examples of sea going craft, the importance of our local harbour and much much more. = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = New Year visitors to Castlehill House Exhibition
The exhibition, which closed this weekend, featured photographs, documentation, stories and memorabilia from the era when Castlehill House was the centre of the Traill Estate. James Traill's house proudly overlooked Castlehill Harbour, which was purpose-built to enable the export of finished flagstone from the adjacent Castlehill Pavement Works. Sadly the house fell into ruin following a devastating fire in 1967. |
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Dateline: Sunday 24 December 2023 |
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Merry Christmas from Castletown Heritage SocietyCastletown 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 Castlehill House exhibition - Saturdays, Sundays and Wednesdays 2-4pm. Or join us for our special Boxing Day opening 2-4pm - enjoy some mulled wine, mincmeat pies whilst exploring the special display of artwork from members of the Castlehill Monday Night Art Group - you might be amazed!
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Dateline: 21 December 2023 |
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Refurbished WWII display area starting to take shape Thanks to the efforts of volunteers Neil, Hugh and Roy, the creation of an improved display area within Castlehill Heritage Centre have taken a step forward. After three days of concerted activity, bare stone walls within a section of the Archaeological Research Facility currently used to display the Merlin Engine have been framed out, plaster boarded and taped ready for painting. Wiring has been installed to allow for socket outlets and radiant heating plus connection to our IT network. The aim is to transform this area to create enhanced displays focusing on Castletown's history during the Second World War. As well as telling the story of our much admired Rolls-Royce engine from a Hurricane fighter aircraft which flew from RAF Castletown, there will be a tribute to Flight Officer Don Mason from Thurso. We are delighted to have been given a selection of war-time memorabilia from his days as a pilot and navigator in the RAF. A new interpretive section will also portray life in Castletown village during 1939-1945 and the impact of the nearby RAF Castletown, which was built on Thurdistoft farm. True to our environmentally friendly credentials the purchase of new materials in the refurbishment is being kept to a minimum by the judicious re-use of existing stocks of wood etc., and upcycling of unused cabinets and such like.
= = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = Welcome! We are delighted to have made contact with Gary Eisenhauer, micropalaeontologist, who has recently moved to the area. He has been introduced to the Jack Saxon Collection of fossils curated by Castletown Heritage Society. Gary hopes to begin working in the New Year on the plan to preserve, display and interpret the world class collection for a wide audience. |
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Dateline: 20 November 2023 |
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Latest podcast released - 'Daisy's Map'
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Dateline: 16 November 2023 |
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Muriel nails it with John Calder of Dunnet evening talk
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= = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = "Caithness Birds" by Castletown Primary School pupils on display Visitors to Castlehill Heritage Centre can admire pieces of art work done by pupils from Castletown Primary School in a special display entitled "Caithness Birds". Mrs Clarke from Dunnet has combined her joint interest in bird life and art to encourage the youngsters to depict some locally seen birds. Some examples are shown below - come along and see the rest! The local branch of Scottish Ornithological Club meets at Castlehill during winter months. Look out for their series of regular talks and filmshows. |
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Dateline: 07 November 2023 |
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Evening talk - John Calder of Dunnet
Perhaps of particular interest if your name is Calder! |
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= = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = Latest exhibition unveiled - The life and times of Castlehill House
Come along and discover information on the owners, guests, employees and their lifestyle; examine artefacts reflecting life over the years; and ponder reminiscences from those who recall the house and estate. There's a lot more to Castlehill House than meets the eye! |
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Dateline: 13 September 2023 |
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Cruise Ship Visitors
We were delighted recently to welcome some visitors from the cruise ship Hebridean Skye, who arrived at Castlehill in glorious sunshine, and were able to take full advantage of the glorious blooms in our Heritage Garden. |
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Dateline:20 August 2023 |
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Cream teas proving as popular as ever Of all our annual events, the cream teas served every Sunday in August always prove very popular - friends old and new meet up for a chat and to enjoy some good old fashioned home baked scones and cakes. This year has proved no exception, the weather so far being kind enough to enable seating outside in the heritage garden, which is proudly showing its late summer blooms. We are most grateful to Helen and her team of volunteers for organising these ever popular events.
= = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = Visitor strikes it lucky researching his family history
As he was staying in the village for a few days we were delighted to provide extended access to the archive to enable him to gather information on his family history. |
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Dateline: 30 July 2023 |
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Map conservation underway
As can be seen in the photograph to the left, sometimes old maps and charts become fragile and brittle and require painstaking care, repair and special storage. Mary, Jayne and Muriel are undertaking this slow business using the skills acquired at a two day hands-on workshop held at Castlehill last year. The workshop was led by Helen Creasy, paper conservator at the Scottish Conservation Studio in Hopetoun House, Edinburgh. |
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Dateline: 28 July 2023 |
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Give and Take As well as hosting exhibitions on local history and serving delicious August cream teas, Castletown Heritage Society is frequently involved in local research on behalf of visitors both real and virtual. Recently we have provided assistance through our vast archive of information on local people and places over many centuries. For example we have helped a university student towards a thesis on the use of hedging in Caithness, delved into the history of a croft house on Birklehill for its renovator, and produced information and memories of the former farm of Harland, Castletown for a descendant of the family brought up there in the 1800s.
On the other hand we have been given a large quantity of documents on one of Castlehill's schooners the "Barrogill Castle", researched by the great-grandson of its former crew-member and owner. This welcome resource has been added to our collection of stories on the days of sail from our once busy harbour. |
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Dateline: 05 July 2023 |
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Latest podcast - Lost in the Post
Don't forget to visit our digital media page to explore our range of local heritage podcasts and videos. = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = Hayve Basket Making Workshop a resounding success!
During a well-attended public talk on the Saturday night Tim explained the research he had done on the technique, known as Neolithic braid used in the basket's construction, examples of which are found in diverse locations from Africa to Europe. Apart from a similar heather made basket in Orkney, no other example has been found in Britain. His investigations continue and he is anxious to appeal to any locals who may have seen such baskets, to get in touch with Castlehill Heritage Centre.
= = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = Blooming Lovely! Whilst wlaking through the heritage Garden at Castlehill Heritage Centre Muriel captured these images of some of the lovely blooms on display.
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Dateline: 18 June 2023 |
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Never a dull moment at Castlehill! One of the things we love at Castlehill Heritage Centre is hearing the stories of our visitors and sharing our knowledge of the village of Castletown and the Parish of Olrig. A core passion of our team is assisting visitors with information, if we can, to assist with their family history research.
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Feedback was very positive with the ERI team saying they thoroughly enjoyed their visit to Castlehill and gave many thanks for the informative information and the beautiful home baking which went down a treat! The volunteers were also thanked for all being such lovely hosts and looking after them. = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = We were delighted last week to host a much awaited visit of members of Aberdeen Geological Society to Castlehill. In order to take a professional look at our recently acquired collection of fossils fish collected over a life-time by renowned local paleontologist Jack Saxon, three eminent members of AGS spent a full day at Castlehill. They helped us categorise elements of the collection and identify unrecorded specimens. They advised on storage and display of the specimens. With their wealth of expertise they suggested ways of interpreting the development of life on earth through the study of fossil fish.
Although there is still much to do before the collection is ready for public viewing, it promises to become a hugely important part of the offering of CHS and the North of Scotland. |
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Dateline: 2 June 2023 |
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1st Castletown Brownies and Rainbows help in the Heritage Garden 1st Castletown Rainbows and Brownies visited Castlehill Heritage Centre this week to help in our Heritage Garden. They spruced up their adopted 'pollinators' flowerbed and checked up on the status of the insect hotel they installed a couple of years ago. They all got stuck in with weeding the gravelled areas and watering the flowers. Well done girls!!
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Dateline: 18 May 2023 |
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Wick Befrienders visit Castlehill Today we were delighted to welcome a group from the Wick branch of the Befrienders organisation, who enjoyed exploring our 100 Years Not Out farming exhibition. The North Highland Woodturners Association assisted with the visit, laying on a hands-on demonstration of wood turning techniques, with each visitor making their own wood-turned keyring. Photos: Muriel Murray |
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Dateline: 14 May 2023 |
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Castletown Heritage Society AGM 2023 The Annual General Meeting of Castletown Heritage Society took place at Castlehill Heritage Centre on Wednesday 26 April 2023 at 7.30pm. Approximately thirty-five persons were in attandance. Following acceptance of the Chairman's Report presented by outgoing Chairman Wendy Newton, and the Annual Accounts by Hon Secretary Jayne Blackburn, Neil Buchan took the chair as Interim Chairman for the election of the following officers and members of the Management Committee:
If you would like to get involved with, or wish to find out more about the activities of Castletown Heritage Society, please contact us HERE. |
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Dateline: 7 May 2023 |
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Coronation Exhibition at Castlehill In support of the events taking place over 'Coronation Weekend' in Castletown (and indeed throughput the UK) to celebrate the coronation of King Charles III, we staged a small display of coronation themed artefacts and memorabilia, examples of which are shown below.
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Dateline: 03 May 2023 |
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Rush Basket Making Course returns to Castlehill
The tuition fees are £50 per day so £150 for the full course. Payment in full must be made and cleared by 1st June. Tea/coffee and biscuits will be provided throughout the day, however participants should bring their own lunch. The course will be limited to ten participants and places are already filling fast! If you wish to take part, and for further details, please contact us HERE. |
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Dateline: 7 April 2023 |
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The Art of Husbandry
Consisting of ten sections on every aspect of farming imaginable, from land types to pests and from farm buildings to stock varieties, it was written towards the end of the 1600s and was first published in 1705. The edition we were given was the fourth and appeared in 1716, illustrating the increasing interest in the systematic and scientific study of farming at the time. Here in Caithness early experiments in agriculture really began in the 1790s with innovators like Sir John Sinclair of Thurso East and James Traill of Castlehill.
The reason for the book having special significance today is that our current exhibition at Castlehill Heritage Centre features farming and crofting over the years. Alongside our display of old implements, artefacts and photographs we are hosting a wide selection of memorabilia loaned by members past and present of the Young Farmers Association. They are celebrating the 100 year anniversary of the movement which was started in Lanergill, Watten, Caithness by farmer John Robson of Lynegar.
The image on the left features Bower Young Farmer Jak Murray reading our copy of “The Art of Husbandry". |
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Dateline: 30 March 2023 |
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Clyne Heritage Society Celebrates 25 Years
If you would like to take part in any of the activities and help them celebrate simply drop them a line at info@clyneheritage.com or call on 01408 621338. Well done everyone! Here's to the next 25 years! = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = Castletown Heritage Society AGM
All Members, friends, supporters and interested parties from the Caithness community are welcome. The guest speaker will be Andrew Guttridge. |
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Dateline: 27 March 2023 |
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A Unique Pipe Banner is added to our Collections at Castlehill
There were three territorial battalions of the Seaforths - the 4th in Ross-shire, the 5th in Sutherland and Caithness, and the 6th in Morayshire. All Seaforth battalions, with one exception, wore MacKenzie tartan, the MacKenzie stag's head badge, and used the MacKenzie motto Cuidich 'n Righ 'Aid the King' - the Seaforths had originally been raised by Kenneth MacKenzie, Earl of Seaforth. The exception was the 5th. They wore the Sutherland 'cat-a-mountain' badge, the Sutherland tartan, and the Sutherland motto Sans Peur 'Without Fear'. This was because the Dukes of Sutherland had been closely associated with the battalion's volunteer predecessors and it was seen as appropriate to commemorate and continue the association. All three Seaforth territorial battalions served on the Western Front in WW1. Some territorial units were amalgamated as part of post-war reductions in the Territorial Force. These included the 4th and 5th, who were merged to form the 4/5th Seaforths.
George David Keith Murray - widely known as 'Rogie' - was born into a farming and merchant family in Castletown in 1898. In 1915 he enlisted in the Argyll & Sutherland Highlanders and very quickly, just shy of 17 and a half, was commissioned in the Seaforth Highlanders. He was soon in France with the regiment's 8th Battalion. A week short of his twentieth birthday, the London Gazette announced him being awarded the Military Cross 'For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty in a raid on the enemy trenches. When his party was held up by machine-gun fire he forced his way through the enemy's wire and bombed a machine gun. Finding that the rest of the party had been forced back, he rallied them and twice led them to the assault under heavy machine-gun fire. He displayed magnificent coolness and determination under most difficult circumstances.' His wartime service was also rewarded by the French. His 'resilience, valour and continuous good humour in the face of adversity in pursuit of the enemy' gained him the Legion D'Honneur, and his 'devotion to duty on the field of battle during military offensive' the Croix de Guerre with palms for gallantry. Rogie's son Keith still lives in Castletown and is particularly proud of the pipe banner which belonged to his father Brig Sir Keith Murray. He thanked Alan Bruce of CHS for his work on researching and displaying the item. |
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Dateline: 22 March 2023 |
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Forss Young Farmers at Castlehill
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Dateline: 19 March 2023 |
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Latest Podcast - A Load of Old Rope
= = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = Castletown Heritage Society AGMThe Annual General Meeting of Castletown Heritage Society will be held at Castlehill Heritage Centre on Wednesday 26 April 2023 at 7.30pm. All Members, friends, supporters and interested parties from the Caithness community are welcome. The guest speaker will be Andrew Guttridge. |
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Dateline: 08 March 2023 |
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Weekend visitors meet Bronco the horse!
The Bronco horse was made by D. Sebel & Co. Ltd who were based in Kent and who made a range of Mobo branded toys. Our 'Bronco' horse was one of the most popular of their creations and can be ridden and moved by pushing down on pedals which in turn moved the horse’s legs backwards and forwards - surprisingly realistic! Broncos were available in several different colours including dapples (like ours), brown and black. It might be over 70 years old but it can still bring a smile to the face of a young rider! = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = A stitch in time saves a precious donation
When we received the jacket it was a little worse for wear with some of the stitched seams coming apart, especially where the hood attached to the jacket. We have just received the jacket back from having the seams lightly restored and it now looks quite resplendent and ready for action! The jacket will form part of our plans to expand our WWII display area - watch this space for further details! = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = Evening talk - Helen Moore - Landscapes
Helen will discuss the impact that the Caithness landscape has had on her work and how this has changed her work over the last 10 years. Helen takes the striking landscape of Caithness as her starting point, addressing themes of how rural space is used in the modern day, and the impact that humans make in the environment. |
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Dateline: 05 March 2023 |
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New exhibition opens today - Mucking in for 100 Years!
The exhibition is being run in conjunction with the Caithness District Young Farmers Association which is celebrating its centenary this year. The exhibition is open from 2pm to 4pm every Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday afternoons. |
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Dateline: 28 February 2023 |
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Jane Coll reveals the Northern Saints Trail
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Dateline: 25 February 2023 |
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Olrig Observations - Latest podcast - Lady Janet's Elusive Daughter
To listen to the podcast click on the PLAY button or visit the Podcasts and YouTube tab above = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = Harbourmaster William Baikie
To listen to the video click HERE or visit the Podcasts and YouTube tab above |
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Dateline: 23 January 2023 |
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Visitors call the tunes at Castlehill
In amongst the well used but cared for sheets was a real gem of a find - a copy of "The Wick Song" with words by Ian McHardy and music by Alex M Small. The lyrics wistfully recall Bridge Street in Wick, Papigoe, Staxigoe and the Grey Bools - a local geological feature comprising cliff-top storm deposits of large Caithness flagstone boulders near Oldwick Castle. The music proved a real hit with two of our visitors that day - who happened to be from Wick! Now all we need is a piano, a pianist and a singer... any volunteers?
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Dateline: 03 January 2023 |
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Can you help identify this mystery object? Happy New Year everyone!
One of our local friends of Castletown Heritage Society has just brought along this small object found in an old cottage in Murkle, near Castletown. Click on the images to see a larger version. It has caused a bit of head scratching - can you help identify it or suggest a use? Domestic? Some form of handicraft? Fishing? If you have any ideas or suggestions as to what it is or is used for, please do get in touch! Contact Us |