Who we are
Historic Assynt is a community heritage charity working to explore, record, preserve and share the archaeology, history and stories of Assynt.
Our work is rooted in the landscape and communities of Assynt, bringing together archive material, archaeological research, local knowledge, photographs, maps, objects and memories.
We aim to make Assynt’s heritage more accessible, encourage people to take part in discovering and recording it, and help ensure that important stories, places and collections are preserved for the future.
What we do
Historic Assynt works across a wide range of heritage activity, including:
- caring for and developing our archive and collections;
- looking after Ardvreck Castle, Calda House, Inchnadamph Old Kirk and Clachtoll Broch;
- researching the history and archaeology of Assynt;
- recording historic places, buildings, landscapes and objects;
- organising talks, exhibitions, open days and community events;
- creating opportunities for people to learn heritage and archaeological skills;
- supporting community archaeology and fieldwork;
- collecting photographs, memories and local knowledge;
- developing interpretation and resources to help people explore Assynt’s heritage.
Our work ranges from prehistoric archaeology and historic buildings to crofting, fishing, estate history, wartime heritage and more recent community memories.
A community approach
We believe that heritage is strongest when people are able to participate in it.
Local knowledge, family histories, photographs, memories and lived experience are an important part of understanding Assynt alongside documentary and archaeological evidence.
Our projects therefore aim not simply to present finished research, but to create opportunities for people to ask questions, contribute knowledge, learn new skills and take part in recording the heritage around them.
We also work with local organisations, landowners, community groups and specialist partners where collaboration can help strengthen research, conservation and public access to heritage.
Our archive and collections
Historic Assynt holds a growing collection of material relating to the history of Assynt.
Based at the Old Kirk at Inchnadamph, this includes historic maps, photographs, estate and croft records, research material and archaeological objects.
The archive provides an important resource for local history, family and croft research, community projects and wider investigation of Assynt’s past.
Cataloguing and digitisation are ongoing, and we are continuing to improve access to the collections.
Our projects
Historic Assynt develops projects around places, collections and themes where further research, recording or interpretation can make a difference.
Current and developing work includes community archaeology, the Ardvreck cannons, Kylesku Bridge, artefact recording, wartime heritage and the recording of historic sites and landscapes.
Many of these projects grow directly from questions, information and interests raised by people in the community.
Our charitable purpose
Historic Assynt exists to support the preservation, study and understanding of the historic and archaeological heritage of Assynt.
Get involved
There are many ways to take part in Historic Assynt.
You can attend an event, become a member, volunteer with a project, help with archive work or research, share photographs or memories, or simply tell us about a place or story that you think deserves further investigation.
You do not need specialist knowledge or previous experience to get involved.
Our Current Board
Dave McBain, Chair
Scottie Sutherland, Board Member
David MacPhail, Board Member
Leah McBain, Board Member
Fin Valentine, Treasurer
Jen Valentine, Board Member
George Morrison, Board Member