A first ever detailed heritage survey of Robert Burns’ Ellisland Farm is under way.
It is hoped that the study will “shed new light on an extraordinary period” of the poet’s life
Dr David Hopes, vice chairman of the Robert Burns Ellisland Trust, told the Standard the survey is a “landmark moment” in revealing the full history of the buildings where the Bard penned the likes of Auld Lang Syne.
He said: “This unique survey of the buildings will allow us to understand the story of Ellisland like never before.
“It will involve getting under the skin of the history of the buildings by analysing layers of paint, tracing alterations to the shapes of walls, roofs, windows and doors, and gathering as much archival evidence as we can.
“Ultimately, we will have a robust material narrative which allows us then to prioritise our resources in caring for Ellisland, and to shed new light on an extraordinary period of Burns’ life.”
Dr William Napier of Adams Napier Partnership, who is conducting the survey, has already detected some problems that need attention.
He said: “Although generally in a reasonable condition, many areas are being adversely affected by the previous use of modern and inappropriate materials which are not suited in the repair of traditional masonry buildings.
“One of the main challenges will be reversing some of these interventions and re-adopting traditional materials and techniques for future maintenance and repair work.”
The trust, which had support from Historic Environment Scotland to commission the survey, is calling on the public to help the experts build up a picture of Ellisland over the decades.
It is urging people to get in touch to share memories or historic photos which can be emailed to info@ellislandfarm.co.uk.
Dr Napier, a chartered building surveyor and architectural historian, said: “It is a privilege to have been appointed to help understand how best to care for Ellisland Farm.
“I am looking forward understanding its development from the 18th century, reporting on its current condition and, most importantly, on how the buildings should be maintained and repaired appropriately in the future.
“Our understanding of the property will benefit enormously from anyone willing to share photographs of Ellisland Farm or recollections from previous visits there.
“Also of interest are old photographs of traditional Dumfriesshire farm buildings or information relating to late 18th century farming practices from around the time Burns farmed at Ellisland.”
Dr Hopes added: “Revealing the full story of Ellisland Farm and understanding Robert Burns’ time here is critically important to conserving the site for the future and unlocking its full tourism and heritage potential.
“Ellisland Farm was hugely important as a place of inspiration for Burns, in particular as a site of environmental importance where we can see the natural world through the poet’s eyes.
Ellisland has reopened for tours and activities and events are being developed for later in the year.
