TWO new exhibitions are set to be held this summer marking the major Jacobite battle that took place at Prestonpans in 1745.
They are the first in a series of activities that follow the news this spring that The Battle of Prestonpans (1745) Heritage Trust has taken a five-year lease of Prestonpans Town Hall with an ambitious programme of activity and refurbishment.
The Orders of Battle exhibition and Open Day will be displayed at the Town Hall over the weekend of June 26-27 at 11am-4pm.
This special temporary exhibition is a chance to find out about the clans and regiments of the rival armies that fought at the Battle of Prestonpans, exploring the different types of soldiers who fought for and against Bonnie Prince Charlie at his famous victory.
Alongside newly commissioned bilingual (in Gaelic and English) interpretation panels, a spectacle of 5000 paper soldiers will be formed up for battle, and costumed volunteers will help explain the clothing and equipment used.
A further exhibition at the John Gray Centre in Haddington will take place from August 7 until October 29, marking the cultural legacy of the Battle of Prestonpans.
This will include 21st-century paintings, Victorian engravings, 18th century artefacts, Jacobite songbooks and even a copy of the script of the 1948 film, Bonnie Prince Charlie.
Two separate remnants of the famous thorn tree, under which British army officer and local resident Colonel James Gardiner was mortally wounded during the famous battle, will be reunited and displayed together for the first time.
Two supporting Gaelic cultural workshops with poetry and song will also be convened by singer, broadcaster and campaigner, Dolina MacLennan.
Dr Arran Johnston of the Prestonpans (1745) Heritage Trust said: “As the Town Hall moves into a new phase of its life – as a museum and heritage hub focusing on the Battle of Prestonpans and its legacy – we are committed to researching, investigating, and celebrating the role the Town Hall has played in the community’s life since 1897.
“We’d love to hear local people’s memories and look forward to welcoming everyone to our first exhibition.”
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