Moray libraries have joined forces with Robert Gordon University to uncover stories and the history of Culbin, the disappeared village.
An exhibition heralding Scotland’s Year of Stories 2022 opens at 10am on Saturday 19 February, running until 16 March, with a day of activities to explore what went on in the often forgotten Moray village.
The village, on the south shore of the Moray Firth, was destroyed and abandoned in The Great Sand Drift of 1694 and is now the focus of creative reimagining of the myths, legends, people and land that made up Culbin village life.
The exhibition in Elgin Library will be opened by the Earl of Moray and include storytelling sessions, craft activities and talks by local historians.
It’s hoped children will make a felt wall hanging and write stories about the disappeared village to be displayed at the exhibition.
Interim Principle Librarian, Philip Davidson, said:
“This project with Robert Gordon University is really exciting for local storytellers, historians and residents who live near the original site of Culbin village.
“The exhibition gives us a fantastic opportunity to explore life in Moray before 1694 as well as allowing the creative freedom to imagine who might have lived in Culbin, what life was like for them and where they went after the sand drift forced them out of their homes.
“We can’t wait to welcome everybody to the launch and exhibition, it’s going to be a fascinating day and month of celebrating our lost village.”
Professor Peter Reid, from The School of Creative and Cultural Business at RGU said:
“It is fantastic to be working closely with Elgin Library to bring the fascinating story of the disappeared village of Culbin to life through this dynamic exhibition.
“Robert Gordon University is committed to preserving the distinct cultural heritage of the North east and to enhancing the visitor experience and tourism offerings in the region.”
More information on the Culbin stories project can be found on the dedicated website, including full exhibition opening details.
This event has been supported by the Year of Stories 2022 Community Stories Fund.
This fund is being delivered in partnership between VisitScotland and Museums Galleries Scotland with support from National Lottery Heritage Fund thanks to National Lottery players.
