Past Heritage Exhibitions 2006
April - October
The development of Helmsdale Harbour and its fascinating history over the last 200 years is the theme of Timespan's latest community project. A programme of workshops, photographic open nights and guided walks were organised as part of Timespan's investigation into the fishing way of life at Helmsdale and to collect information for the end of project exhibition. The events were greatly supported by the local community and contributions include photographs, harbour objects, film footage, memories and much more. We would like to thank everyone who has been involved in the project and for making it a memorable experience for all involved.
he exhibition room has been aptly chosen with its bare stone walls and rustic interior. The old walls are actually the remnants of an older curing yard building that has been incorporated into the structure of the newer Timespan building. In fact, Shore Street was once lined with curing and coopering yards extending from Timespan, in a neatly laid out fashion, to the end of the Outer Harbour.
There are many fascinating objects associated with the harbour and fishing on display including a fisheries Officer's baton, an eel net and a Helmsdale fisherman's jumper (gansey). A wonderful display of gansey patterns from all around the North coast reveals the many distinct designs found in the different fishing villages. These have been made by an eager group of knitters from Helmsdale who have helped to keep this local craft alive.
A large number of photographs have been collected throughout the project and a selection of these will be on display including the Seine Queen on her voyage to Helmsdale Harbour.
The other photographs are available to view in Timespan along with a range of archival information including the Helmsdale Harbour Lifeboat Minutes (1906 -1930). Old film clips and oral reminiscences about the men who went to sea and the people who worked in the fishing industry further enhance this archive resource.
This interactive exhibition also includes children's activities and fun for all the family.
The Helmsdale Harbour story will take you on a journey into a by-gone way of life and is a tribute to the many generations of fisherfolk at Helmsdale who harvested the sea for their livelihood. The Exhibition will run throughout the 2006 season. See the website and posters for information on workshop and demonstrations.
