The
exhibition proved most successful, attracting considerable
interest from locals and visitors and inspiring the concept
of a permanent local museum, appropriately housed within
the historic setting of the old church building. Several
years of planning and fund raising followed, with the
museum continuing to open seasonally, steadily improving
its collection and welcoming many visitors each summer.
The
project's successful culmination was the skillful and
sensitive renovation of the building retaining much of
its original structure and atmosphere. Many church furnishings
such as the pulpit with its sounding board, the Precentor's
box gallery and pews remain intact. Below the pulpit the
Elders' pews and communion table provide study areas with
a comprehensive collection of archive and genealogical
material and microfilm/fiche facilities.
The
concept now presented is a seamless blend of museum and
visitor centre, serving both the local community and visitors
from all over the world. The display presents the story
of Lochbroom through the theme "The people of the
Loch" interweaving the natural and social history
of the area. The award winning audiovisual presentation
(in English Gaelic, French, German, Italian and Spanish)
explores the links between local people and the environment,
past, present and future.
Display
areas relate to natural history (including two marine
aquariums), social history, emigration, fishing, religion
and education, including replicas of a 1960s schoolroom
and fish smokehouse. Interactive touch screens and computers
provide "hands-on" interest and monitors facilitate
access to the upstairs displays and audiovisual for visitors
who are unable to manage the stairs. A large display area
is used to mount changing temporary exhibitions throughout
the year.
The
collection of artifacts, archives and genealogical material
continues to grow, occasionally being supplemented by
unusual items such as a pre-peristroica wardroom Russian
flag and a POW tag from one of the Stalags. Much admired
are the Bicentenary tapestries and quilts, hand stitched
by residents to provide nearly 200 squares of scenes and
trades around the Loch broom area. Equally of interest
is a collection of hand crafted model ships, including
the "Hector", which in 1773 carried local emigrants
to Pictou and other parts of Canada.
Open Times and Prices
1 April (or Easter if earlier) 31 October:
10am 5pm, Monday to Saturday.
1 October - 31 March:
By prior arrangement with the Museum Curator.
Adults: £3
Concessions and Groups: £2
School aged children: 50p.
The museum is situated in a central location. Close by are a free car park, shops, restaurants and the busy
harbour and Stornoway Ferry Terminal.
It's a disability friendly museum. The audio visual display and permanent exhibitions are available in six languages.
A Museum Gift Shop for all ages.
MUSEUM MEMBERSHIP & FRIENDS SCHEME
You can become part of the museum and help in keeping our local heritage alive, by becoming a Museum Member or Friend. The museum has a membership of almost 300 people, from Ullapool to New Zealand!
