Friends are people who are interested in our local heritage and who support the work of the Royal Burgh of Lanark Museum. For some it means offering time or personal skills; for others it means offering financial support or useful contacts. For all, it is an expression of concern for the preservation of our past through real objects, that we may continue to enjoy them; learn from them; and pass them on to future generations. Friends meet periodically for social, informative and fundraising activities. Newsletters keep members up to date with the on-going activities at the Museum.
The Museum Trust itself was established in 1988. The old 'Salvation Army' hall in Westport was purchased in 1990 and the Trust have since set about converting it for use as a Museum for Lanark and the surrounding area. The first exhibition was opened in the Spring of 1991 and has become an annual event since that time. With help from enthusiastic volunteers, the Trust have recently refurbished the facade of the building and constructed a new store for objects.
There remains much to be achieved over the coming months and years, but with the help and support of an enthusiastic and dedicated band of 'Friends', the Trust will be able to continue improving and developing the Museum.
The 'Friends' support The Royal Burgh of Lanark Museum in a wide variety of ways. If you would like to become more involved, please complete the following and return with your membership application.
A long tale starting with the Roman period through to today. This year's exhibition will indude sections on the more important aspects of Lanark's story. The founding of the town in the early mediaeval period, its weaving tradition, its famous characters and development during the 19th and 20th century. A special section will display some of the many items found during the archaeological dig on the site of Cox's Garage, which was near the 14th Century Friary.
A major feature of the exhibition will be Lanark in photographs covering three periods:-1890-1910, the 1960's and this year. A major photographic survey of the town has been started with the help of some members of Lanark Camera Club and will continue throughout the year with over 600 photographs as the end result. During the season a section of the photographic display will change as this work progresses.