The History Of Caithness Comes Alive At Thurso Town Hall

2nd December 2008

Photograph of The History Of Caithness Comes Alive At Thurso Town Hall

On Monday 1st December 2008 Caithness Horizons reopened the magnificently restored Thurso Town Hall and Carnegie Library to the public. The new museum and community facility has not only captured the past and brought it to life through displays and interpretation, it also provides a real flavour of Caithness today to tempt visitors to find out more about this diverse county.

Following the opening by Margaret, Viscountess Thurso of Ulbster, visitors had their first chance to look around the facility, which explores the archaeology and history of the area, the geology and ecology, the wildlife, flowers and fauna, our need for fuel and energy and a sustainable future. The building is also home to tourist information, temporary exhibitions and displays, educational projects, audio-visual presentation facilities and a café.

Overwhelmed by the transformation, Lord Lieutenant of Caithness, Anne Dunnett, said: "The Town Hall had become cold, drab and run down and the transformation is astonishing. It is a wonderful facility and one that I hope the people of Caithness will appreciate and use.

"We are extremely fortunate to have such a fantastic facility, which will be a boon to the whole county. I would like to thank all those who have worked so hard to create such a modern interior while ensuring that the main character of the building has remained intact."

Experiencing Caithness Horizons for the first time, Thurso resident, Davie Oag, was also impressed by what he saw. He said: "I am very pleased with what has been done. This is a great project and money well spent. There is so much to discover that people will be encouraged to come back again and again."

Caithness Horizons' chairman, Paul Cariss, said: "We are delighted to finally be able to throw open the doors and give the Thurso Town Hall back to the people of Caithness. It is the culmination of six years' hard work and meticulous planning, and we hope that people will come along and see just what Caithness Horizons has to offer."

Photo
Caithness Horizons Chairman Paul Cariss
John Thurso MP
Margaret, Viscountess Thurso of Ulbster

 

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