Paisley has marked 40 years since the first opening of the Sma Shot cottages.
The iconic museum, which celebrates Paisley’s rich weaving heritage, marked the milestone on Wednesday, January 28 with a special lunch honouring the volunteers who have supported its work over the past four decades.
Renfrewshire's Provost Lorraine Cameron hosted the celebration lunch at Gabriel’s in Gauze Street, with more than 50 people attending.
The afternoon was opened by Eileen McCartin MBE, president of the Old Paisley Society, who highlighted the important role the cottages have played in celebrating the town’s history.
Read more:
Artwork for Paisley mural dedicated to WW2 Scot who cared for Jewish girls unveiled
Special event to commemorate life of Scottish missionary who died at Auschwitz
Glasgow Airport to mark significant anniversary - here is how you can get involved
Eileen said: “Our wee cottages museum would be nothing without our volunteers, and it is only right that we celebrate with them and congratulate them for all the time and effort which has been given by our volunteers over the years.
“In recent years, we have received the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service, as a reflection of the commitment of all our volunteers.
“We have tour guides, tearoom and kitchen workers, a shop manager and others behind the scenes who look after our historic collections.”
Read more:
Innovative heat recycling company to open global headquarters in Paisley
Paisley mum opens up on 'sinister' taxi experience as police launch investigation
'It’s love with impact' - Paisley celebrant wins national wedding award
New £1.6m walking and cycling project to boost active travel in Renfrewshire
Eileen also paid tribute to the late Ellen Farmer MBE, who established the cottages, as well as some of the long-standing volunteers who have helped shape the museum.
She said: “Some of our volunteers have been involved for the best part of those 40 years, when the cottages were established by the late Ellen Farmer MBE, whose husband Eddie will be joining us today.
“Others, such as Cath Mitchell, who was president of the Old Paisley Society for 12 years, and June Kennedy, who has worked on our historical artefacts, have been the powerhouse of our museum.
“One member in particular who has been involved with the cottages for more than 30 years is still working, still contributing actively as a member of our board, and who has kept the fabric of our buildings together over that time.
“Bruce Lindsay, as well as being a guide, has ensured that both the 18th and 19th century buildings have been well looked after in that time, and, frankly, we couldn't have done it without him.
“However, Bruce comes as a pair, and his wife Hazel has also been a stalwart of the cottages’ life during that time, including being secretary of the Old Paisley Society for many years.”
Share