Professor Margaret Fairlie was a leading medical professional in the field of obstetrics and gynaecology. She advocated for and advanced the treatments available for women’s health throughout the first half of the 20th century, and became the first woman to be appointed to a university professorship in Scotland. She was born to James and Marjory … Continue reading Professor Margaret Fairlie (1891-1963)
Morison’s Haven – Part 2
Digital Imaging Specialist Clare Stubbs continues her exploration of the archives to learn more about Morison’s Haven, a once-thriving port at Prestonpans in East Lothian, now long deserted. In 1877, plans were drawn up to not only expand the Prestongrange mining operations but to put down train tracks between the colliery and the harbour to … Continue reading Morison’s Haven – Part 2
Morison’s Haven – Part 1
Digital Imaging Specialist Clare Stubbs delves into the archives to learn more about Morison’s Haven, a once-thriving port at Prestonpans in East Lothian, now long deserted. For people travelling from Edinburgh to North Berwick along the curving lines of the East Lothian coast, there are hints of its industrial history dotted along the landscape. One … Continue reading Morison’s Haven – Part 1
Flannan Isles Lighthouse Keepers: The disappearance
Though three men dwell on Flannan IsleTo keep the lamp alight,As we steered under the lee, we caughtNo glimmer through the night.…..Aye: though we hunted high and low,And hunted everywhere,Of the three men’s fate we found no trace,Of any kind in any place,But a door ajar, and an untouched meal,And an overtoppled chair. Flannan Isle, … Continue reading Flannan Isles Lighthouse Keepers: The disappearance
Moving Pictures: an animated photograph
Coming across photographs amongst bundles of manuscripts is not uncommon within the archives of the National Records of Scotland (NRS). However, this one caught my attention - because when I followed the instructions printed on the mount - he smiled at me. Inscribed on the back: “Geo. France 12/4/17”, material within this collection suggests this … Continue reading Moving Pictures: an animated photograph
Digital Preservation Day – Preserving Our Own Records
Today is World Digital Preservation Day, celebrating work to preserve the world’s digital heritage. Most of the records National Records of Scotland (NRS) currently holds are paper documents such as files, books and letters. Modern records however are mostly “born digital” – they have been produced in a digital format, such as email, PDFs, … Continue reading Digital Preservation Day – Preserving Our Own Records
The ‘Freedom Machine’: A celebration of cycling in Scotland
In August 2023 Scotland successfully hosted the UCI Cycling World Championships. This was the biggest cycling event in the world. Spanning two weeks in venues across the country, the Scottish public was treated to a festival of cycling, featuring the world’s best cyclists, including Scots such as Katie Archibald, Anna Shackley, Fin Graham and Charlie … Continue reading The ‘Freedom Machine’: A celebration of cycling in Scotland
‘A Virtual Visit’: National Records of Scotland Digital Doors Open Days 2023
Doors Open Days logo© the Scottish Civic Trust 2008 Doors Open Days (DOD) ‘is Scotland’s largest free festival that celebrates places and stories, new and old.’ Its aim is to give everyone the opportunity to explore some of the most architecturally and culturally significant buildings in Scotland, places which are not usually open to the … Continue reading ‘A Virtual Visit’: National Records of Scotland Digital Doors Open Days 2023
What actually counts as a drug death?
Scotland’s drug death rates have increased considerably over the last two decades. Because of this, it is really important that we understand how many people die due to drugs each year. These deaths can be complicated to count and the figures can be misunderstood. This blog sets out what is being included in the figures. … Continue reading What actually counts as a drug death?
The Archivists’ Garden – A Peaceful Spot
Both General Register House and New Register House are familiar sights to Edinburgh locals, even if those who pass remain unaware of the many treasures held within. Housing the archives and public services of the National Records of Scotland (NRS), these buildings give access to a rich store of records relating to all aspects of … Continue reading The Archivists’ Garden – A Peaceful Spot
Open Book 