In 1979 the museum opened to the public. The purpose of the Museum is to record, preserve and illustrate Arran’s history. The items on display have been donated by the people of Arran or those with Arran connections. We offer facilities for research in our archives and genealogical office. Throughout the season we offer programs including special event days and talks by local experts.
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OUR STORY
Introduction
[Car Park & Entrance]
The Isle of Arran Heritage Museum, founded in 1976 (and open to the public in 1979) is on the main road, at Rosaburn, just north of Brodick, on the beautiful island of Arran, Scotland.
Originally the site of a small school, the present group of buildings were a croft and smiddy. The site includes a farmhouse, cottage, bothy, milk house, laundry, stable, coach house and harness room.
The exhibits reflect the social history, archaeology and geology of the island.
The museum is run by volunteers, who generously give their time to make your visit as enjoyable and interesting as possible.
The idea of an Arran Heritage Museum was conceived by the late Miss Bess MacMillan M.B.E., of Brodick.
The purpose of the Museum is to record, preserve and illustrate Arran’s history. The items on display have been donated by the people of Arran or those with Arran connections.
Social History
[Museum Cottage]
The stable and coach house contain displays on various aspects of life on Arran in the past. Old photographs show village life and farming methods in bygone days. The island’s long seafaring traditions are remembered from the days of sail, through steam powered puffers, paddle steamers and warships, to the latest car ferry.
[Smiddy]
The smiddy is still as it was when work stopped in the 1960’s. Its forges, bellows, tools and other equipment are original.
The farmhouse accommodates a schoolroom, circa 1920, and the museum café, which offers a selection of delicious meals and snacks.
Archeology & Geology
[Archaeology Room]
Arran’s archaeology and geology are presented in a way which is of interest to the least informed on the subjects. This includes a complete and authentic Early Bronze Age grave (over 3,000 years old) and a pottery food vessel found in it.
[Geological Sample]
Why not come along and see Clachaig Man, 5,000 years old, re-created by computer technology from a skull found in a long cairn at Clachaig, on Arran, in 1900.
Genealogy and Archives
[Archive Object Store]
In the archives we store a number of papers and documents relating to Arran's history. These include maps, postcards, letters, diaries, and publications. The Archives are now housed in a custom built room in the Museum extension. These Archives, which are added to weekly, are looked after by the Museum’s Archivists.
[Archive Paper Store]
The Genealogy department investigates the history of Arran families and aid visitors in researching their Arran links. In person, via email, by letter and by phone, people from all over the world contact the museum genealogists, in their search for information on their Arran ancestors.
Both can be accessed on Wednesdays throughout the year or by prior appointment.
Special Events
[AHM Motorcycle Rally 2024]
The museum hosts a number of special events throughout the season, including talks by informed locals; pop-up exhibitions; and special event days based around Tractors, Motorcycles, Crafts, and Children.
[Transport Pop-Up Exhibit]
Contact Us
Check out our Facebook for the latest news & events schedule!
Telephone: +44 (0) 1770 302636
Email:
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
Website: www.arranmuseum.co.uk
[View from the Road]