Banff Castle’s Banffshire at War exhibition proves popular with visitors
An exhibition shining a light on a community’s wartime experience has proved to be a major draw.
Running throughout May, Banffshire at War at Banff Castle explored how the Second World War shaped everyday life in the local area, with personal stories, photographs and original artefacts bringing the past to life.
The exhibition was open five days a week, welcomed school groups from Macduff Primary and also featured a very well-attended VE Day event.
Visitors praised the display as informative, moving and clearly presented, with many highlighting the value of its strong local focus.
The exhibition was a collaborative effort between Banff Castle, Friends of Duff House, Banff Preservation and Heritage Society and Museum of Banff.
Val Harrison, a volunteer at Banff Castle and one of the exhibition curators, said: “What made this exhibition so special was how generous people were with their stories and belongings.
“Some visitors even brought us wartime artefacts to display – and in some cases, to keep.
“I’ve gathered dozens of personal memories during the month, and I’ll be passing them on to the Museum of Banff so they can be preserved in the archives for future generations.”
Visitors came from across the north-east and beyond, including guests from the USA and a visiting German couple were particularly interested in learning about how people coped on the home front.
Project officer Jo Edwards said: “We are delighted with the growing interest in Banff Castle’s developing heritage and events programme.
“We have been overwhelmed with the positive response and support from the community and are now looking at how to build on the exhibition’s success in the future.”
Chairman John Cox said: “Our events and exhibitions are a key strategy to increase footfall to the town.
“The town and surrounding area along the Banffshire coast, has a lot to offer in terms of its heritage and culture and working with various organisations is producing significant benefits.
“We are also delighted with the wider support from many local businesses sponsoring our events.”
