June 2026 Message from the Centre Manager: Sam Grove

Message from the Centre Manager – June 2026

Visitors to the museum in recent weeks may have noticed various maintenance works being carried out. Though being housed in a listed historic church is a wonderful thing, naturally this brings its own challenges when it comes to repairs and renovations. Thanks to funding from the Wolfson Foundation we have been able to get some much-needed work completed on the building, including re-painting the external doors and windows.  We also had woodworm treatment done in the Laird’s Loft, which was thankfully completed just in time for our talk by Portmahomack’s resident astronomer Denis Buczynski. Denis illuminated the night sky by taking us on a tour of all the amazing things happening right above our heads. After such an awe-inspiring talk, it wouldn’t be surprising if the population of Portmahomack all become night owls! 

We also had the chance to share our own history when Balnagown Estate invited us to be a guest on their podcast this month. Our volunteers Willie and Rosie gave listeners an insight into the story of our collections, the archaeological dig, and local legends. Listen here on the Balnagown website or on Spotify, Amazon or Apple.

Summer is shaping up to be filled with more interesting talks and other fun events. Our next talk will be by Dr David Petts, an archaeologist who will give a talk on his exciting new research on the monastery of Lindisfarne on 24th June. We are also taking part in Portmahomack Gala week with two events: create your own Pictish stone out of clay with Barry Grove, and a graveyard tour with Jim Ritchie and the chance to design your own clan crest. Keep up to date with all of our upcoming events here or sign up to our monthly newsletter here.