Robert the Bruce 1318 Charter
What’s on in 2018 July – December
7 centuries of history, 365 days of celebration. haddington700.com Illustration of John Knox by Glen McBeth.
Welcome to Haddington 700
Welcome to the Haddington 700 programme. Marking the John Knox anniversary of Robert the Bruce’s 1318 charter to the town, is thought to Haddington 700 aims to celebrate the town’s history and culture, have been born showcasing all that Haddington has to offer with a year of exciting in Haddington projects and events. around 1513. The charter is housed at East Lothian Council Archives in the John Gray Centre and confirms the rights of Haddington as a royal burgh. It will be on display as part of the closing events on December 6th, 700 years to the day since the charter was presented.
This programme covers July to December and includes events from almost 50 community organisations and features everything from sport to music and exhibitions to lego builds! It has not been possible to include everything in the programme at the time of print. Please check our facebook page for regular updates including more details of our closing events.
Haddington 700 has inspired a year of very special projects and events and the Haddington 700 Committee would like to thank all the individuals and community groups who have contributed.
Keep up to date with our website www.haddington700.com or follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
2 7 centuries of history, 365 days of celebration. haddington700.com 3 REGULAR EVENTS REGULAR EVENTS AT HADDINGTON LIBRARY
St Mary’s at 4 Bookbug | Sessions, songs and rhymes Messy Mondays | Art and craft Concert series for babies and pre-school at 10.30am sessions for 3 and 4 year olds. Monday, Sundays at 4pm and 11.15am every Wednesday in the 1pm-2pm, £2 per session. Sessions resume on 27th September. Contact St Mary’s Parish Church | Haddington Star Room. During the school summer holidays (4 July-15 August) there will only the library to book. be one Bookbug session at 11am. They With its warm acoustic and spectacular architecture, St Mary’s Homework Club | Every Parish Church is a great place to relax and enjoy music on a will take place every week in the gardens Wednesday from 3.30pm-4.30pm of St Mary’s Parish Church Pleasance if Sunday afternoon. Admission is free of charge but donations (for 8-12 year olds). Sessions resume weather permits, otherwise in the Star 26th September. towards the church lighting project welcome. Room. Bring your own travel rug! | Every Thursday 1 July Danish Chamber Choir Science Club Chatterbooks | Junior Book Group 5pm-6pm, £2 per session or £10 22 July Arlen – trio with guitar, bass & voice for 8-12 year olds, every second Tuesday for the block of five. Contact the library 5 August David Hopkinson, Clarinet & Piano 3.30pm-4.30pm. Sessions resume after to book your place. 19 August Prior Engagement Folk Group the summer on 25th September then 26 August Peaty Millers with guest Eve Doyle on harp and voice continue until 4th December. Scratch | Junior code club for 2 September Caitlin Bruce plays Harp 8-12 year olds. Every second Thursday 9 September Andy & Sadie (Duo, guitar and voice) Evening Book Group | Every from 3.30pm–4.30pm. Sessions 30 September Clark Community Choir third Tuesday of the month, 6pm-7pm. resume 27th September. 7 October Rudsambee Singers Resumes 18th September. 14 October Pure Voices by Eternity Singers Tyne & Esk Writers Group Handmade Haddington Alternate Tuesdays at 7pm (meeting in Every Friday from 10am-12noon the Town House, Haddington). (sewing, knitting, and crafts). Haddington Concert Society Tyne & Esk Poetry Group Lego Club | The second Saturday of First Tuesday of the month 2pm-4pm, Music Close Up the month and the last Sunday of the Star Room. month 1.30-2.30pm. | A gentle walk on Haddington Town House Walk & Talk Saturday Family Film Club the first Wednesday of every month. Starts 29th September, 2pm-4pm. Meet at the library at 10.15am, then Sat 28 July, 11:30am Alex Casson (violin) Free Look for details in the library and online. return to the library. Sat 25 August, 11:30am Ben Adams (piano) Free Sun 14 October, 3pm Vision String Quartet; Summer Reading Challenge Ligeti, Schubert, Beethoven £12 23 June to 24 August Sun 28 October, 3pm Trio Khnopff; Haydn, Dvorak, Haddington Library and Libraries throughout East Lothian. Piazzolla, Martin £12 The aim of the summer reading challenge is to encourage primary school Sun 18 November, 3pm Gina McCormack, violin, Nigel Clayton, children to read six library books. There are rewards to collect along the way, piano; Debussy, Finzi, Ferguson, and it’s free to take part. This year’s theme is Mischief Makers, inspired by the Prokofiev, Saint-Saens £12 much loved, iconic Beano, which celebrates its 80th anniversary this year. For further information visit www.haddingtonconcertsociety.com Join in with exciting activities every week of the school holidays.
4 7 centuries of history, 365 days of celebration. haddington700.com 5 JULY JULY
Amisfield Walled Garden Garden Open Days & Guided Tours
Every Sunday afternoon throughout July and August, 1-4pm Amisfield Walled Garden | Amisfield Park | Haddington Entry from the east entrance to Amisfield Park, near Abbey Bridge.
Dating from the late 18th Century, Amisfield is one of the largest walled gardens in Scotland. With extensive herbaceous borders, fruit and vegetable beds, wildflower meadows, orchard and woodland plantings, this community garden is managed by the Amisfield Preservation Trust and a large band of volunteers. Guided Tours available on request. For further information visit www.amisfield.org.uk
Haddington Athletic FC v Heart of Midlothian FC and Hibernian FC
Millfield Park | Haddington
Haddington Athletic Football Club senior team will play two friendly matches against Heart of Midlothian FC and Hibernian FC in July as part of the Haddington 700 celebrations. A not to be missed chance to see the Hi-His take on the Premier League as the teams prepare for the football season.
For dates visit www.haddingtonathletic.co.uk or facebook.com/haddingtonathletic SCOTTISH REGISTERED CHARITY - SC045421
6 7 centuries of history, 365 days of celebration. haddington700.com 7 JULY JULY
Banner Making Print The Town Red for THE BIG DAY Tuesdays 3rd & 17th July, 10-12pm Various Locations | Haddington Wednesday 11th July, 2-4pm Star Room | John Gray Centre Our street printmaking project will continue Haddington up until the end of August – and the public are invited to join in. Led by artist Fiona Maher there will be an opportunity to learn Banner making workshop for kids and families. some printmaking skills and take to the streets on Tuesdays Help us make a banner and decorate shields to carry at the parade between 10am & 12pm. for the BIG DAY EVENT on 25th August.
If you would like to get involved as an individual or group please Drop in event. get in touch and we can design a special workshop and session for you e.g printing T-shirts from objects/street metalwork. You can follow the project via a blog on www.theprintstigator.co.uk Scotlands National Airshow Alternatively if you see us out and about take a pic and post. National Museum Community Arts Hub, Haddington of Flight Saturday 28th July, 10am-5pm Lantern Making National Museum of Flight, East Lothian for families & adults The air display will feature aircraft old and new, with fantastic formation and single flying, from Tuesday 10th July, 10-12pm & 2-4pm international and UK-based teams. MADE Arts Hub | Haddington We have a whole day of on the ground activities where you can Lantern making workshop using willow meet pilots and crews, explore one of Europe’s best collection and tissue paper for the BIG DAY event on of aircraft and take part in aviation-themed and family activities. 25th August – Drop in workshop. For ticket prices and to book online visit £2 per head. https://www.nms.ac.uk/national-museum-of-flight/whats-on/airshow
8 7 centuries of history, 365 days of celebration. haddington700.com 9 AUGUST AUGUST
Made Community Arts Hub, Haddington Lego Robotics Lantern Making John Gray Centre for All Thursday 9th August, 10am–4pm Haddington Library | John Gray Centre Saturday 4th August, 10-12pm & 2-4pm Made Community Arts Hub, Haddington Using the latest Lego robotics technology to build and program amazing creatures which can move using Lantern making workshop using willow motors, gears and wheels. Our young roboteers will learn how and tissue paper for the BIG DAY event on to program sensors to make the robot react to its surroundings. 25th August – Drop in workshop. Program robot birds to chirp, crocodiles to snap and plane engines £2 per head. to rev!
Ages 9-13, £33 per head. Tickets only available on-line, visit www.johngraycentre.org for details Made Community Arts Hub, Haddington Costume Making Made Community Arts Hub, Haddington for All Costume Making Tuesday 7th August, 10-12pm for All Made Community Arts Hub, Haddington Saturday 11th August, 10am-4pm Make a costume for the BIG Day event on Made Community Arts Hub, Haddington the 25th August at this drop in session – we have a wide selection of donated fabrics and Make a costume for the BIG Day event on other materials to get creative with and some skilled volunteers the 25th August at this drop in session – to assist you. we have a wide selection of donated fabrics and other materials to get creative with and some skilled volunteers Suitable for 6 yrs and up. £2 per head. to assist you.
Suitable for 6 yrs and up. £2 per head.
10 7 centuries of history, 365 days of celebration. haddington700.com 11 AUGUST AUGUST
Official World Record Attempt Archive Lunchtime Talk for the Most Players in Of Popcorn & Picture Houses: a Touch Rugby Match A History of Haddington Cinemas Sunday 12th August Haddington Rugby Club Wednesday 15th August, 12.30pm Archives & Local History Area Are you game to join the rugby club in their John Gray Centre | Haddington world record attempt? The record stands at 442 players – help the club to reach 700 players for the 700 celebrations. Join Dr Hanita Ritchie to discover the history of cinema No age restrictions – all welcome! in Haddington. A chance to share your movie going memories.
For more information visit www.pitchero.com/clubs/haddington Light buffet lunch provided. Free event but please contact [email protected] to book your place.
Print The Town Red Made Community Arts Hub, Tuesday 14th & 21st August, 10-12pm Various Locations, Haddington Haddington
Our street printmaking project will continue Costume Making for Kids up until the end of August – and the public are invited to join in. Led by artist Fiona Maher there Friday 17th August, 1-3.45pm will be an opportunity to learn some printmaking skills and take Made Community Arts Hub, Haddington to the streets on Tuesdays between 10am & 12pm. As part of our HUB ART CLUB activities If you would like to get involved as an individual or group please Make a costume for the BIG Day event on the get in touch and we can design a special workshop and session for 25th August at this drop in session – we have a wide selection you e.g printing T-shirts from objects/street metalwork. of donated fabrics and other materials to get creative with and some skilled volunteers to assist you. You can follow the project via a blog on www.theprintstigator.co.uk Alternatively if you see us out and about take a pic and post. Cost £2 per head 6 years upwards.
12 7 centuries of history, 365 days of celebration. haddington700.com 13 AUGUST AUGUST
Royal Company of Archers St Mary’s Parish Church Archery Demonstration Bell Ringers
Sunday 19th August, 10.30am Saturday 25th August, 1.30pm Aubigny Sports Centre and St Mary’s Parish Church | Haddington Neilson Park | Haddington The St Mary’s Parish Church bell ringers perform a special The Royal Company of Archers are more familiar with Musselburgh peal for Haddington 700. The Society of Change Ringers ring the where they take part in the annual Silver Arrow shoot. church bells every Sunday morning to welcome the congregation to worship. This special peal has been arranged to mark the Haddington 700 are delighted that the RCA are taking part in the Haddington 700 anniversary. town’s celebrations. At 10.30 am there will be an illustrated talk on the RCA’s history at the Aubigny Sports Centre. This will be followed at 11 am and 1.15pm with Archery Demonstrations and children’s ‘Have a shot’ sessions at Neilson Park. Fiddlestick Orchestra Celebrates Haddington 700
Made Community Arts Hub, Saturday 25th August, 7.30pm Haddington Haddington Corn Exchange Costume Making for Kids Fiddlesticks Orchestra East Lothian celebrates Haddington 700 and the orchestra’s 10th anniversary Friday 24th August, 1-3.45pm by performing a concert of favourite rock, pop, folk and film pieces Made Community Arts Hub, Haddington from over the years. This vibrant East Lothian community orchestra of all instruments, ages and abilities will present an exciting As part of our HUB ART CLUB activities programme including Bon Jovi, Lord of the Dance, Dr Who, Make a costume for the BIG Day event on the Thriller, Ghostbusters, Mozart and Handel rock remixes and many 25th August at this drop in session – we have a wide selection more. Fiddlesticks concerts are fun for all the family so come along of donated fabrics and other materials to get creative with and and join in the celebrations! some skilled volunteers to assist you. Tickets £10 (£6 concessions) available from orchestra members Cost £2 per head 6 years upwards. and on the door.
14 7 centuries of history, 365 days of celebration. haddington700.com 15 THE
TIME EVENT
10-1pm Farmers Market, Court Street
Medieval Play Event, Council Car Park BIG DAY 11-12.30pm (Neilson Park Road) and Lodge Street Haddington, Saturday 25th August Music in the street with performances 11-1pm from Jimmy Wilson & Stuart Davie Join us for a fabulous day packed full of and Owen McAlpine , fun & family friendly entertainment. FREE Dress up and join in the parade! Look out your medieval costume and take Featuring Haddington and Aubigny 1.30-2.30pm part in the parade through the town. Pipe Bands. Meet at Council Car Park, Neilson Park Road. Grab a refreshment and watch Events at East Haugh: Stalls, demonstrations of crafts and gladiator refreshments, craft demonstrations, 2.30pm jousting. The kids can help us decorate fairground attractions, storytelling, onwards a fort or take a turn in the stocks. the stocks, face painting, hog roast, beer garden, live music and more! The world famous RED HOT CHILLI PIPERS will take to the stage in the evening with 6.45pm Red Hot Chilli Pipers & Firework finale a Firework Finale.
16 7 centuries of history, 365 days of celebration. haddington700.com 17 AUGUST
Arlen Musical Trio ‘Songs for a Scottish Summer’
Saturday 31st August, 7pm West Parish Church | Court Street | Haddington
A mellow cocktail of ballads, golden standards and sixties hits arranged for guitar, double bass and voice.
Tickets £7 from Joe Forte Sports, or on the door.
East Lothian Triathlon Club The Haddington Sprint Triathlon
Sunday 26th August, 9am Various locations
Organised by East Lothian Triathlon Club this event consists of a 750m pool swim at the Aubigny Sports Centre, a 19km cycle around East Lothian’s country roads and a 5km off road run. The triathlon will run from 9am until approximately 12.30pm. The Haddington triathlon is a well organised and friendly event that attracts a range of competitors from novices to top athletes.
Visit our website at www.eltcuk.com or sign up at the following link www.entrycentral.com/Haddington-Sprint-Triathlon
Please book early as places fill up quickly. If you are interested in helping on the day please contact the Triathlon Club.
18 7 centuries of history, 365 days of celebration. haddington700.com 19 SEPTEMBER SEPTEMBER
Art Point Scotland Made Community Arts Hub, Haddington Create Our Future Events
Friday 31st Aug – Sunday 2nd Sept Inter generational Various locations in Haddington art competition launch A packed weekend of events for children and Saturday 1st September, 1pm families organised by Art Point Scotland to show Made Community Arts Hub, Haddington the local community and especially children what possibilities they have in the future and that we all create the world to live in. Based on the work of the Haddington born artist Sir William Gillies we are inviting pairs of adults and children to create artworks using Friday 31st August – Science Festival for School Children, Haddington and its surroundings as inspiration . Haddington Corn Exchange Whether you’re a Granny and grandson, Uncle and niece, mum and Saturday 1st September – Art Exhibition and FREE art workshops, daughter, or other combination we are looking for artworks that you Haddington Town House have either worked on together or 2 individual pieces exploring the Sunday 2nd September – Amisfield Walled Garden, 11am - 4pm. same subject matter – launch event will take place at the Arts Hub at Family, environment and outdoor activities. Entry is £2, under 3’s 1pm and information and submission details will be available via our go free. Proceeds towards Amisfield Preservation Trust. Facebook page and web-site. Additional donations are appreciated. The competition will conclude with an exhibition – For further information and details of timings visit date and venue to be confirmed. www.artpointscotland.org
20 7 centuries of history, 365 days of celebration. haddington700.com 21 SEPTEMBER 1ST - 16TH SEPTEMBER EAST LOTHIAN ARCHAEOLOGY & LOCAL HISTORY FORTNIGHT Tour of Amisfield Park The Archaeology of Amisfield & This year’s Fortnight is packed with events all about the archaeology and heritage of East Lothian. For more information St Martin’s Church, Haddington visit www.eastlothian.gov.uk/archaeologyfortnight Sun 2nd and Mon 3rd September, Events in Haddington are listed below. 10am-12noon Amisfield Park | Haddington
Join East Lothian Council Archaeology Service for a tour of A Shot in the Dark Amisfield Park, looking at the surviving elements of the 18th century designed landscape. We will visit the ruins of the medieval Tales of the Tyne church of St Martin’s and hear about the recent geophysical survey, and view the site of the medieval St Mary’s Nunnery (from the 31st August – 3rd September, 10am-4pm road). On the way, we will drop by the excavation of the mound by Next to the River Tyne footpath, the Tyne, and find out what the archaeologists have uncovered. opposite Haddington Golf Course This is an easy walk of about 5km, with uneven ground in places. (near the Cascade) Booking required – for more details and to book visit A mysterious mound beside the Tyne – is it a cart ramp? www.eastlothian.gov.uk/archaeologyfortnight An artillery platform from the 16th century Siege of Haddington? OR... Let’s find out, using drone flights, metal detecting and excavation. Walk the Tyne and meet the archaeologists on site, where we will be Haddington History Society carrying out the work, and telling tales of the Siege. Scottish Routes to Flodden Car park at Abbey Bridge – east of Haddington near Amisfield. in 1513, David Caldwell
Thursday 6th September, 7.30pm Haddington Town House
This talk concentrates on the Scottish preparations for the battle in 1513 rather than the actual battle itself and the wider political situation. How did the Scots put together a large fighting force and how well prepared was it for battle? Who was involved and how did they get from their homes all over Scotland to fight in the north of England?
Non members welcome.
22 7 centuries of history, 365 days of celebration. haddington700.com 23 SEPTEMBER SEPTEMBER 14TH - 23RD LAMMERMUIR FESTIVAL 2018
Annual Keep The festival’s Artistic Directors Hugh Macdonald and James Scotland Beautiful Waters match music, musicians Lammermuir Festival and historic buildings to create Awards Ceremony unique and unforgettable musical experiences. You’ll find Scotland’s leading ensembles alongside some Thursday 6th September of the finest UK and international musicians performing in venues across St Mary’s Parish Church | Haddington East Lothian. The listings below detail Haddington Concerts, visit our website for full listings. Hundreds of people from across Scotland will congregate in the town to recognize the efforts of communities across the country Tickets on sale from 1 June from lammermuirfestival.co.uk who work to clean up, green up and beautify Scotland’s villages, or call 0131 473 2000 towns and cities. Local community groups taking part include Blooming Haddington.
This event is invitation only. Opening Concert BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra Holy Trinity Church Friday 14th September, 8pm Tea & Hymns St Mary’s Parish Church | Haddington
Sunday 9th September, 2-4pm The wonderful sound of a great symphony orchestra in Holy Trinity Church | Haddington Haddington’s beautiful St Mary’s Parish Church will be a truly special experience. A warm welcome awaits you at our lovely church to sing some favourite hymns followed by tea and delicious cakes. Scottish Chamber Orchestra This is a free event but donations are appreciated. Places are limited so please email [email protected] Sunday 16th September, 7.45pm to book and remember to mention your favourite hymn. St Mary’s Parish Church | Haddington
A world class orchestra and a brilliant soloist play great music in a beautiful building.
24 7 centuries of history, 365 days of celebration. haddington700.com 25 SEPTEMBER 14TH - 23RD SEPTEMBER 14TH - 23RD LAMMERMUIR FESTIVAL 2018 LAMMERMUIR FESTIVAL 2018
Mozart’s Gran Partita Haydn Coffee Concerts Scottish Chamber Orchestra Winds Monday 17th-Friday 21st September, 11am Holy Trinity Church | Haddington with Mark Simpson
Falko’s amazing cakes, Haydn’s utterly charming string quartets, Saturday 22nd September, 7.45pm brilliant young musicians, coffee and a lovely venue. What a way to St Mary’s Parish Church | Haddington start your festival day! Mozart’s Gran Partita is one his greatest pieces and features prominently in Amadeus. St Mary’s Parish Church offers the perfect Scottish Opera venue for this astonishingly rich music. The Burning Fiery Furnace Stockhausen Freude by Benjamin Britten Saturday 22nd September, 10pm Friday 21st September, 8pm St Mary’s Parish Church | Haddington St Mary’s Parish Church | Haddington Striking and quirky music by one of the 20th century’s most Great composer, wonderful opera company and the perfect venue controversial figures played by two of the most brilliant young for this emotionally charged music drama. harpists in Europe.
Music at Lennoxlove Stile Antico Consone String Quartet Sunday 23rd September, 7.45pm St Mary’s Parish Church | Haddington Saturday 22nd September, 11am World class choral singing will sound amazing in St Mary’s Parish Lennoxlove House | Haddington Church and the festival closes with one of Bach’s very greatest works. The Great Hall at Lennoxlove is a most striking venue with a wonderful acoustic. This young string quartet will sound rich and imposing in these beautiful surroundings. The Lammermuir Festival is produced by the Lamp of Lothian Trust and supported by Creative Scotland, East Lothian Council, sponsors and donors.
26 7 centuries of history, 365 days of celebration. haddington700.com 27 SEPTEMBER SEPTEMBER
Music From the Movies Archive Lunchtime Talk Bristo Community Witches in East Lothian
Concert Band Wednesday 19th September, 12.30pm Archives & Local History Area Saturday 15th September, 7pm John Gray Centre | Haddington West Parish Church | Court Street | Haddington Join local author and witchcraft expert Bristo Community Council Band are an inclusive band from David Robertson as he discusses the history of witches Edinburgh. Musicians of all ages and abilities are welcome and the in East Lothian. band can lend quality instruments to anyone who would like to get back to playing music. To find out more email the band Light buffet lunch provided. Free event but please contact at [email protected] [email protected] to book your place. Tickets £5 (under 16s £3) from Joe Forte Sports.
Charter, Church, Conflict East Lothian Hospital Histories and Community: Friends of the Haddington 1318-2018 John Gray Centre
Saturday 15th September, 9am-4pm Friday 21st September, 2.30pm Town House | Haddington Star Room | John Gray Centre | Haddington
Haddington’s History Society and East Lothian East Lothian hospitals have long and interesting Antiquarian and Field Naturalists’ Society. A one-day conference histories, but their stories (and those of their patients) are often on significant periods and events in the history of Haddington led overlooked in favour of their Edinburgh neighbours. This talk from by eight distinguished speakers. Plenary by Professor Richard Oram, archivist Louise Williams (Lothian Health Services Archive) will shine University of Stirling, on Haddington’s Burgh Charter of 1318: a light on hospital services in the county, from Musselburgh A Snapshot of Scotland’s Burghs in an Era of Change. to Haddington and beyond. Using images and documents Louise will introduce some of the hospitals that operated in East Lothian, show Registration from 9am. Conference 9.30am-4pm. which of their records survive and highlight some personal stories Fee £10. Book in advance at www.eastlothian.gov.uk/archaeologyfortnight from the archive. Fee includes teas and coffees. Bring your own lunch or choose one of the local eating places. £3 for non-members.
28 7 centuries of history, 365 days of celebration. haddington700.com 29 SEPTEMBER OCTOBER
Tales my Father Told Me Illustrated Lecture on with Henry Muchamore Sir William Gillies
Tuesday 25th September, 10.30am by Guy Peploe Star Room | John Gray Centre | Haddington Friday 5th October, 7pm Join us to listen to Henry Muchamore share Poldrate Centre | Haddington some of his memories and monologues. Sir William George Gillies RA was a renowned Also your chance to find out more about the Scottish landscape and still life painter, born in Haddington. Haddington Active Memories Group. The subject of his art was the landscape of Scotland, his home patch of Midlothian and the Border country and that which he saw Amisfield Walled Garden from a tent door in the Highlands and West coast. Guy Peploe has been a Director of The Scottish Gallery for over Garden Open Day 30 years, and has recently been the driving force behind the (Edinburgh & East Lothian establishment of The Scottish Colourist Foundation. Doors Open Day) Tickets available at MADE Arts Hub. £7 including cheese and wine.
Saturday 29th Sept, 10am-4pm Edinburgh Highland and Sunday 30th Sept, 1-4pm Reel & Strathspey Society Amisfield Walled Garden Amisfield Park | Haddington Traditional Scottish Music Entry from the east entrance to Amisfield Park, near Abbey Bridge. Saturday 6th October, 7.30pm Dating from the late 18th Century, Amisfield is one of the largest walled gardens in Scotland. With extensive herbaceous borders, St Mary’s Parish Church | Haddington fruit and vegetable beds, wildflower meadows, orchard and A fabulous evening of traditional Scottish music woodland plantings, this community garden is managed by the from one of Edinburgh’s oldest music societies. This not to be Amisfield Preservation Trust and a large band of volunteers. missed performance includes a variety of traditional airs, marches, For further information visit www.amisfield.org.uk strathspeys, reels and jigs. Visit www.stmaryskirk.co.uk for further details.
30 7 centuries of history, 365 days of celebration. haddington700.com 31 OCTOBER OCTOBER
Archive Lunchtime Talk Musical Evening Horrid Haddington with Andy & Sadie
Wednesday 17th October, 7.30pm Friday 26th October, 7pm Archives & Local History Area West Parish Church | Court Street John Gray Centre | Haddington Haddington
Join archivist Ruth Fyfe as she takes you A melodic romp through traditional Scottish Music. through some of the more ‘Horrid’ aspects of Haddington history. Tickets £5 from Joe Forte Sports, or on the door. Don’t let it put you off your lunch! Light buffet lunch provided but please contact [email protected] to book your place. ‘Come and try Pilates’ Haddington History Society with Gail Sked
“Leaving Nothing But the Saturday 27th October, 11am and 12noon Plague – The Survivors Guide Haddington Town House to the Siege of Haddington” ‘Come and try Pilates’ with Gail Sked. Two identical 45 minute sessions will run at 11am and 12 noon. Thursday 18th October, 7.30pm Mats provided. Haddington Town House Pay at the door £2 per head. John Cooper has previously conducted significant academic research on the Siege of Haddington 1548/9. Currently he is leading a project to develop a better understanding of the layout of the town, its buildings and its defences before and around the time of the siege, and the consequences for the town and its local population. The project is in its early stages and he is receiving considerable help from volunteer members of the History Society. His talk will deal with the siege and its aftermath.
Non members welcome.
32 7 centuries of history, 365 days of celebration. haddington700.com 33 A friend for life. Haddington Farmers’ Market
We support the work of the Museum, Archive and Local History Service at the John Gray Centre, and associated volunteer projects, in preserving and making our heritage accessible. We invite you to join us. Come and enjoy the friendly atmosphere of Haddington Come and mix with like-minded enthusiasts and enjoy our programme Farmers’ Market where the stallholders offer you of talks, walks and visits, free to all Friends. Plus, you’ll be the first to a tempting selection of home produced specialities. hear about sought-after volunteering opportunities at the Centre. There is always something new to experience and enjoy. Membership of the Friends costs only £10 yearly. The friendly atmosphere, the tantalising smells of barbecue Visit the Centre or email [email protected], to join. cooking, the aroma of fresh bread and home baking, the tasty samples, guest stalls and the availability of recipe leaflets and first hand advice all add to the success of the Haddington Farmers’ Market.
East Lothian residents know they are lucky to live in an area that not only looks beautiful but also produces delicious food.
15 Lodge Street, Haddington, EH41 3DX T: 01620 820695 or 01620 820690 E: [email protected] (for Friends) E: [email protected] (for Centre) Last Saturday of every month | 9am – 1pm W: www.johngraycentre.org Court Street, Haddington
JohnGrayCentre @JohnGrayCentre www.haddingtonfarmersmarket.co.uk
34 7 centuries of history, 365 days of celebration. haddington700.com 35 NOVEMBER NOVEMBER
Cinema of Conflict: Horrible Haddington War Film Season & Book Launch
History Events Friday 2nd November, 2-4pm John Gray Centre | Haddington Various dates in November John Gray Centre Film Appreciation Club On the surface Haddington is a pretty place & Local History Centre | Star Room | Haddington but there are some horrible secrets lurking in the town’s past. East Lothian Archives Service and illustrator Glen McBeth bring these To commemorate the centenary of the end of World War 1, the stories to life in Haddington’s very own Horrible History book for John Gray Centre Film Appreciation Club is screening a series of children. Meet Glen McBeth and learn how to draw the characters, war films in November. As part of the film season, the Club, listen to stories by Haddington700 storyteller Nicola Wright, and in collaboration with Local History Service, is also holding history a chance to hear songs specially created for Haddington 700 by events relating to WW1. Kingsmeadow Primary School, songwriter Alan Penman and the Events include a screening of GB Samuelson’s 1923 silent film Youth Music Initiative. ‘A Couple of Down & Outs’. Described as “the original War Horse”, For more information visit facebook.com/Haddington700 the film was lost for around 80 years before being restored by the British Film Institute (BFI). An introduction and a post-screening Q&A session will be provided by representatives from Scotland’s War. Haddington Fireworks To mark the contribution of women to WW1, there will be screenings of selected short films from the Imperial War Museum collection, with Torchlight procession showcasing the remarkable stories of women working on the home & Bonfire front and on the front-lines.
Details of all events will be advertised closer to the time. Booking Saturday 3rd November is essential and can be done at Haddington Library. Cinema of Find out more from Haddington Events facebook Conflict at the John Gray Centre takes place on the following dates: page nearer the time. Featuring the annual torchlight procession, 1st, 3rd, 10th, 17th, and 24th November 2018 in the Star Room. bonfire and fireworks.
Visit www.facebook.com/Haddingtonevents
36 7 centuries of history, 365 days of celebration. haddington700.com 37 NOVEMBER NOVEMBER
The 80’s GOLD Tribute Night Haddington History Society Erasured & Dirty Harry Ship to Store
Saturday 3rd November, 7pm Thursday 15th November, 7.30pm Haddington Corn Exchange McArthur’s Store | Dunbar Haddington Town House Rock back to the 80s with 2 fabulous tribute acts – Erasured – the UK’s top Erasure tribute, and Dirty Harry – An assemblage of re-used ship timbers. the original and best tribute to Blondie. Tickets £20. Over 14 only. Part of the history society’s regular talk series.
Tickets from Ticket Scotland 0131 220 3234, Non members welcome. Easy PC Haddington and at East Coast FM. Le Beaujolais Nouveau est arrive! Remembrance Sunday Haddington Twinning The Annual Haddington Association
Service of Remembrance Friday 16th November, 7.30pm Sunday 11th November, 10.55am Trinity Centre | Church Street | Haddington St Mary’s Parish Church | Haddington Join Haddington Twinning Association for an evening of celebration. French wine The annual Haddington Service of Remembrance. twinned with local cheese, charcuterie, music Particularly poignant in this the centenary of the armistice. and a French comedy film!
For more information visit facebook.com/haddington700
38 7 centuries of history, 365 days of celebration. haddington700.com 39 NOVEMBER NOVEMBER
St Mary’s Martinmas Fair Archive Lunchtime Talk: Stalls, Cafe & Entertainment Love, Tammy –
Saturday 17th November Letters from the Trenches St Mary’s Parish Church | Haddington Wednesday 21st November, 12.30pm Come along and support the Church’s biggest Local History & Archives | John Gray Centre annual fundraiser, and enjoy a great atmosphere. There will be A look at very personal letters from the trenches. Sent from stalls selling crafts, home baking, produce, plants, jams & chutneys, Humphrey Broun-Lindsay to his mother during WWI, they tell the second hand books, bric-a-brac and much more as well as a cafe, story of soldier on the front line of the Great War. musical entertainment and competitions. Light buffet lunch provided but please contact Visit www.stmaryskirk.co.uk for further details [email protected] to book your place. Book Week Scotland Glasgow Overspill East Lothian Libraries Cake & A Cuppa Monday 19th – Sunday 25th November East Lothian Libraries Wednesday 21st November, 2.30pm Star Room | John Gray Centre | Haddington A week long celebration of books and reading delivered by the Scottish Book Trust in partnership with local libraries In the late 1950s Haddington was the first town and other organisations. This year offers a packed programme of in Scotland to sign an Overspill Agreement with Glasgow. events, many held in Haddington to celebrate the 700! Check online This agreement brought more than 200 families to the town, nearer the time for details but look out for Alan Taylor sharing memories significantly increasing the population. Perhaps your family moved and anecdotes about his friendship with Muriel Spark; Rosemary Goring to Haddington as part of ‘the Overspill’, or you have memories of presenting “Scotland: her story”; Scotland’s history told exclusively by Haddington at that time. Join us for afternoon tea and reminiscence. its women, and the wonderful singer/songwriter Karine Polwart who will be talking about her newly published book for children. **We are keen to record memories of ‘the Overspill’ before this event. If you have memories you would like to share please email For more details visit www.johngraycentre.org [email protected] or pop into the Archive and Local Look out for details of an exciting Haddington 700 History Centre (first floor, John Gray Centre). young people’s/family book festival!
40 7 centuries of history, 365 days of celebration. haddington700.com 41 NOVEMBER DECEMBER
Epicurean Affair Archives Lunchtime Talk Series: Who’s Who of Food ‘Our Burgh of Haddington’ and Beverage Thursday 6th December, 12.30pm Star Room | John Gray Centre Saturday 24th November, 5-10pm Haddington Corn Exchange ‘Our Burgh of Haddington’: Robert Bruce, the 1318 charter, and Their Place in Scotland’s History. This event brings the Who’s Who of Food and Beverage producers from all over Scotland together. Featuring food On the 700th anniversary of its creation join Dr Callum Watson as he demonstrations by award winning Indian Restaurant Shri Bheemas, takes a closer look at the 1318 charter. This talk will explore what the Edinburgh and music by Haddington Pipe Bands. Haddington charter tells us about the state of Bruce’s kingdom in 1318, what it meant for Haddington at the time, and how it connects Tickets £6 from Haddington Wines and Whiskies the town to the wider story of the legendary King Robert. and Joe Forte Sports. Light buffet lunch provided. Free event but please contact [email protected] to book your place.
Haddington Christmas Christmas Light Switch on Big Lego Build and Fun Day with Warren Elsmore
Sunday 25th November Friday 7th and Saturday 8th December, 10.30am-4pm Find out more from Haddington Events Haddington Library | John Gray Centre Facebook pages nearer the time, featuring kids activities and the annual torchlight procession and light switch on. Warren Elsmore is one of the best known lego artists and builders. Help him re-create our Haddington 700 Robert the Bruce (designed Visit www.facebook.com/Haddingtonevents by Glen McBeth) from lego. For all lego fans,not just the kids!
42 7 centuries of history, 365 days of celebration. haddington700.com 43 DECEMBER PROJECTS
MADE Community Arts Hub Haddington 700 Window Display Garleton Singers A special Haddington700 window display has been created by the knit and knatter group which meets on Wednesday mornings at the Christmas Concert Community Arts Hub from 10-12. The display celebrates the 9 trades of Haddington and the objects have all been knitted or crocheted Sunday 9th December, 7pm using wool that has generously been donated by the public. St Mary’s Parish Church | Haddington Poldrate Quilters The ever popular annual St Mary’s Parish Church Christmas Concert, guaranteed to get you in the festive mood! Haddington 700 Quilt The Quilters have contributed a decorative quilt on display at Haddington Visit www.stmaryskirk.co.uk for further details. library. The design of the quilt represents several brightly-coloured copies of the original charter and one in beige representing the real charter. The quilt was specifically designed to contain exactly 700 pieces of fabric: Contributors from the Poldrate Quilters: Shona Angus, Sheila Baird, Rosie Barton, Sheila Buttenshaw, Sheila Chambers, Anne Dyer, Sheila Faulks, Colette Frew, Audrey Hyslop, Ann Lee, Margaret Logan, Susanne Lowe, Sarah McIntosh, Irene McKenzie, Pam Macrae, Maryann McNeill, Estelle Morton, Ann Thomson, Marion Tulloch, Kathy Wallace, Sally Watson, and Hilary Williams. Designed & quilted by Shona Angus.
WW1 Thistle Commemoration To mark the final year of the WW1 centenary commemorations Haddington Community Council is committing a hand-crafted thistle for each of the 131 soldiers on the War memorial. Poignantly, each soldier’s thistle is committed at 3pm on the date they died. Family descendants of the soldiers are invited to volunteer to carry their thistle. Priority will be given to family descendants, but if you would like to volunteer to carry a thistle please email [email protected]. A list of the soldiers’ names and the date their thistle will be committed is available from the Community Council website, www.haddingtoncc.org.uk/ww1-thistles
44 7 centuries of history, 365 days of celebration. haddington700.com 45 PROJECTS PROJECTS
Haddington Tales Haddington 700 Oral History Storytelling
As part of a wider project with Edinburgh University, East Lothian Nicola Wright from Flowery Frocks Storytelling is working with Archives Service are collecting oral memories relating to the town. Haddington Primary Schools bringing tales from the archives to life. The children travel back in time to medieval Haddington and find out Memories recorded can be on any topic you choose. Perhaps you what daily life was like, fast paced sessions cover everything from want to tell us about getting the belt at Knox, or your time working at housing and working conditions to the plague and gardy loo! Song Kilspindie? Did your family come here as part of the Glasgow Overspill? and mime help the children learn about the 9 trades of Haddington. Although memories are recorded, it’s very informal and the recording Storytelling is a fantastic way of helping children learn from the can take place at the John Gray centre, or we can visit you at your home. archives. Look out for Nicola at the Big Day in August and other If you are interested in sharing your story then please get in touch events throughout the year. [email protected] The Siege of Haddington Haddington 700 Youth Music Initiative Research Group (SHRG) Songwriting Project A team of leading local historians and students from Glasgow East Lothian Youth Music Initiative, which is managed by East Lothian University’s Centre for Battlefield Archaeology have set themselves Council’s Arts Service, has commissioned musician Alan Penman to the task to recreate not only the 16th Century town but also the long work with three classes at Kings Meadow Primary School, supporting forgotten walls and bastions of the English fort as it would have been them in creating and recording their own original songs connected during the Siege of Haddington. The ultimate aim is to create a virtual to or inspired by Haddington, in celebration of 700 years. Featuring model of the town under siege which can be used to bring the history instruments the children may play, alongside harmonised vocals, of the battle to life for school pupils, students and tourists. and Alan’s inspiring musical arrangements, the songs will offer a Successes to date includes the discovery of tax records listing the lasting legacy for the town, and will be performed at the launch of owners of properties just after the siege and sketches of street plans Haddington Horrible History Book for Children on Friday 2 November. showing where they lived. We also have new information on the English HQ at the Tolbooth and the ‘Bothwell Castle’ site from which we have created our first virtual reconstructions.
We look forward to inviting you along to share in our discoveries and showcasing our own virtual 16th century town.
46 7 centuries of history, 365 days of celebration. haddington700.com 47 WALKS EXHIBITIONS
Guided Walks East Lothian Archives Haddington Town Centre Haddington 700 Exhibition
Guided Walks in Haddington Town Centre, every Saturday at 2pm Saturday 30th June – Wednesday 26th September throughout the summer, meet outside the John Gray Centre. Temporary Exhibition Gallery | John Gray Centre | Haddington
Learn about the town’s history over the last 700 years, its fine Come and explore Haddington’s history. Created by East Lothian buildings and its secrets! Walks are for residents and visitors and Council’s Archives team this exhibition will take you through 700 years of the town’s history. Sometimes sad, sometimes gory, sometimes funny led by volunteer guides. but never boring. Sponsored by the Business Association, advance booking For opening hours, see www.johngraycentre.org/visit/opening-hours (before 1pm on day of walk) is essential and tickets can be bought at Jabberwocky Softplay reception (01620 248070), directly opposite the John Gray Centre. A Sense of Place
Tickets cost £3 each, under 5s free. Paintings by Dorothea Nimmo Smith of Haddington in the 1940s and 1950s
Hidden Haddington Organised and researched by Haddington History Society Mystery Walking Tours Saturday 6th October – Tuesday 20th November Temporary Exhibition Gallery | John Gray Centre | Haddington When the nights draw in and the shadows lengthen and darken the Dorothea Nimmo Smith, (1889 to 1962), was the elder daughter of town, Hidden Haddington will explore the mysterious and less well a minister of St Mary’s Parish Church. She worked mainly in wood known places and stories of this historic Scottish town. cuts but she was also a talented water colourist. During and after the war, she painted more than a hundred water colours of As part of the Haddington 700 events we are offering a number Haddington street scenes. of free walking tours helping to celebrate the history and character of old Haddington. A selection of the best are exhibited for the first time for more than 20 years. Photographs of some scenes as they are today accompany The nature of these tours means we may be walking through the closes, the exhibition. Loans from private collections illustrate her work in lanes and over uneven ground so care should be taken and sensible different media. For families, there is an I-spy picture quiz, drawing footwear is highly recommended. and colouring.
For more information visit www.hiddenhaddington.com For opening hours, see www.johngraycentre.org/visit/opening-hours
48 7 centuries of history, 365 days of celebration. haddington700.com 49 ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
The Haddington 700 Committee and the Friends of the John Gray Centre would like to thank all the individuals and organisations who have contributed to this programme. Thanks to your support we have a packed and varied calendar of events.
Special thanks to all our sponsers and supporters.
Look out for the Haddington 700 logo and our Robert the Bruce on Prentice coaches!
BRUCE JUICE Haddington Special Edition IP A
50 7 centuries of history, 365 days of celebration. haddington700.com 51 OS Map taken from the website www.map4free.co.uk
How to find us
Haddington Town House
MADE in East Lothian John Gray Centre Haddington Corn Exchange St Mary’s Parish Church
7 centuries of history, 365 days of celebration. haddington700.com