ONE of the world’s biggest computer games is helping school pupils in Glasgow learn about the role Maryhill played in the First World War.
“Building the Barracks” is a free download for Minecraft, allowing gamers to experience what it was like to live and work in the army base back in 1914.
The game, told through the eyes of a soldier, features present-day landmarks and also buildings found on the army barracks, including the officers’ mess, cook house, hospital and quartermaster’s store.
The barracks were once home to the Highlands Light Infantry and the Royal Highland Fusiliers before being decommissioned in the 1960s. It’s now home to Cube Housing Association’s Wyndford estate.
Cube, in partnership with Wheatley Foundation, are supporting the game as part of a wider project, funded by the National Lottery Heritage Fund, to explore the history of the area.
Nine-year-old Sophie Greene said: “I walked right to the edge of the barracks and I could see houses that look just like mine. It was amazing. You see the homes the way they were. I could even see my own home. I’ll play it again.”
The heritage project also features photos and an exhibition looking back at the role the barracks played in shaping Maryhill.
David MacKenzie of Cube said: “This part of Maryhill has been transformed with massive investment in the homes and community in recent years, but we didn’t want to forget about its important history.”
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