Cullen, Deskford & Portknockie Heritage Group

The Cullen, Deskford and Portknockie Heritage Group was formed in 1990. From a small group of enthusiasts the Group has grown to over 50 members and has recently gained charitable status. The objectives of the Group are to advance and promote the heritage of the local area, and, with its considerable collection of photographs, documents and artefacts, the Group regularly provides displays, presentations and talks in the local community.

The Group usually meets on the first Monday of each month from September to May at 2 p.m. at the Hall Church, York Place, Cullen where members discuss a wide range of heritage-related topics. In addition, all members are very welcome to a weekly meeting in Cullen Library (10.00 - 12.00) to have a look at the existing archive and to assist in the development of the archive and the recording of the area's heritage.

The Group has an aspiration to secure permanent premises from where it can operate a heritage centre for the benefit of both the local community and visitors. In the meantime, work is well in hand to catalogue all archive objects and papers currently held in the former Woodworking Room of the Cullen Community and Residential Centre, as well as run a further Summer Exhibition.

The Group would be pleased to welcome new members, and would be grateful for the opportunity to copy your photographs and documents that add to the heritage of the area and not necessarily of years past – tomorrow’s heritage starts today.

** Summer Exhibition - June to August 2012 **

The Cullen, Deskford and Portknockie Heritage Group had another very successful year - with over 1,400 visitors, including 194 visitors over the opening (Jubilee) week and a heady 350 visitors over the Cullen Gala weekend.

Volunteers with local knowledge to assist in manning the display in 2013 would be very welcome.

** The Life and Times of a Cullen Loon by Cy Pirie **

This publication was launched on 29th March 2012 in Cullen Library and is now available for sale (priced at £4).

** Dedication Service of the 1941 Portknockie Memorial **

This took place on Friday 20th April 2012, and was well attended by both general public and invited guests. The families of those most affected extend their heart-felt thanks for all that has been done in their families' name. The builder of the memorial seeks no publicity, but has done an excellent job in designing and constructing such a suitable memorial. Research into the history of the bombing raid will be published shortly.

** Memorial Ceremonies for those lost at sea **

The first of these took place on 19th January 2012 to remember those lost off BC1952 The Evangeline, and the second on 21st March 2012 - the 71st Anniversary of those lost off the boat The Sickle.

** Clean-up and restoration of Jenny's Well **

This took place on 10th May 2012. The project involved Heritage Group members, Portknockie Upper School (co-ordinated by Duncan Falconer of National Springclean through Moray Council), Simon Tucker of the Cullen Voluntary Tourist Initiative and several senior K'nockers who recall the well in its hey-day.

Other current projects include:-

· The expansion of the Photo Archive - more photos would be very welcome, as well as help on researching the photos already received (names of people etc); originals will be scanned and returned immediately
· The recording of Memories of the more senior members of the community
· Booklets to be printed on a variety of topics
· Website development in hand - visit www.cullenheritage.com to see progress.

For more information please contact the Secretary, Peter Mason at pmason.eday@btinternet.com

Downloads

	For a list of Committee Members, please click here.
	To read the Minutes of the last meeting, please click here.

Contact Details

Cullen, Deskford & Portknockie Heritage Group
Peter Mason, Secretary
pmason.eday@btinternet.com