Local History

One of Elgin Museum’s strengths is the wealth of information it houses about the history of Moray and more particularly of Elgin. In addition to objects and archive, we have the knowledge and memories of our volunteers – most originate from here or have spent many years in the area.

What will we see on display?

People and Place – the main display in the Front Gallery, and refurbished in 2003. This tells the fascinating story of the last 1000 years in Moray’s history.

Rear Gallery – here, alongside our permanent Geology and Archaeology displays, you can see objects relating to the lives of ordinary people in historic times, including our Victoriana display, the last Spey coracle, and displays of historic local industries. You will also find a natural history display of Moray wildlife in the Rear Gallery.

Spey Coracle

Spey Coracle

What else is there in the Museum?

Photos – we have an extensive collection of old photographs and some glass plates. Some are on display in the Museum, others in our Side Hall, but the vast majority are kept in our stores.

Archive – we have Museum letters, Minute Books, Visitors’ Books and other papers dating back to 1836, including correspondence with such scientists as Charles Darwin and TH Huxley, and the scientific correspondence of the Rev George Gordon of Birnie.  We have also recently been donated the archive of the Elgin Incorporated Trades and which we are in process of cataloguing.

Reference library – we have a reference library that includes many works relating to the history and prehistory of Moray.

Stores – there is far more in the stores than can be displayed in the Museum, so if you can’t see an item, please ask. If you know in advance, please email or telephone beforehand.

Can the Museum help schools?

We offer school visits, with a general introduction to the Museum and its place in understanding the past, and sessions on specific subjects as requested, whether based on a time period such as the Victorians or Romans, or a particular topic. Please see the Education & Outreach section of the website.

Questions?

We welcome enquiries. The staff and volunteers at Elgin Museum will try to answer your questions. If you have an item relating to Moray’s history and heritage which you would like to donate, please contact us.