Historic stained glass window in Forglen Hall restored thanks to local groups
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Restoration of a historic stained glass window which was originally commissioned for a local house in the 1860s has been completed thanks to the efforts of two local groups.
The window in Forglen Hall that illustrates Jacob’s Ladder from the Old Testament has been restored to its former glory after Alvah and Forglen Community Council and Friends of Forglen Hall worked together to get the damaged window repaired.
Jacob’s Dream window was unveiled at a public ceremony by Banffshire Lord Lieutenant Andrew Simpson who also presented Forglen Hall with a letter of good wishes from Her Majesty The Queen.
Work on the window was carried out by stained glass artist and conservator Linda Cannon who previously worked in the Burrell Collections for eight years and who spends much of her time on historical conservation.
This window was a commission from world-famous designers of religious stained glass windows Clayton and Bell and was originally installed in Ardmiddle House which was situated on the other side of the River Deveron.
The house was built in 1836 for John Adam and taken over by Alexander Rae, a naval surgeon, and Adam’s partner in a business of flax and seed merchant, who had married John Adam’s sister Margaret Adam.
Their daughter, Barbara Rae, married John Duguid Milne and they significantly extended the house in 1868.
The house remained with the Milne family until it was bought by Robert Collier Caw a tea planter in India, in 1924.
He immediately auctioned the contents of the hall and donated the stained glass window to Forglen Hall before Ardmiddle was demolished in 1952.
Earlier this year Historic Environment Scotland and Strath of Brydock Windfarm awarded funding for the project.
Community Council secretary Jim Bayne who played a key role in bringing forward the restoration said: “First I would like to thank our two sponsors Historic
Environment Scotland and Strath of Brydock Windfarm who not only provided the funding for the project but have been great enthusiastic supporters throughout.
“I would also like to thank Aberdeenshire Archives and Aberdeen University whose help was critical in discovering the history of the window.
“I can tell you that it has been an absolute joy to work with Linda.
“We have been amazed at her skill, patience and the different techniques involved, but most of all her enthusiasm for the project.”
Banffshire Lord Lieutenant, Andrew Simpson said: “Everyone involved with this project is to be congratulated on their success.”
Friends of Forglen Hall chairwoman Rhoda Burns said: “I’m so delighted with it and this is a great community project we hope can bring more people to the hall.”
Restorer Linda Cannon based in Glasgow said: “It was a complete joy to be part of this project.”
