Major exhibition offers an insight into Angus’s role in Jacobite cause

The role Angus played in the Jacobite cause will be revealed in a new exhibition to be mounted at Montrose Museum later this summer.

‘Tartan & Turmoil: The Angus Jacobite Story’ will spotlight a world of intrigue, loyalty and rebellion as the county played a pivotal part in the uprisings – particularly Montrose itself.

​Peter Grant, from Glen Lethnot, who is remembered as the oldest documented survivor of the Battle of Culloden. (National Galleries Scotland)placeholder image
​Peter Grant, from Glen Lethnot, who is remembered as the oldest documented survivor of the Battle of Culloden. (National Galleries Scotland)

Once branded “the most disloyal and disaffected town in Scotland”, from Montrose’s bustling port the Jacobites, exiled in Europe, were supplied with gold, weapons, and secret reinforcements.

Trace the rebellion’s path through Arbroath, Brechin and Forfar, where whispers of resistance stirred the blood of local people, and onward into the Angus Glens – which became the stage for both defiance and eventual defeat.

Here, in 1746, after the Battle of Culloden, the last flicker of Angus’s Jacobite hopes was finally extinguished.

Encounter treasures once owned by Stuart kings, intimate letters penned by Angus rebels, rare weaponry, and humble everyday objects that carry the weight of extraordinary stories.

Meet not only lords, lairds and ladies, but the butchers, weavers, fishermen, innkeepers, and servants whose courage and conviction led them to also fight for the doomed Jacobite cause.

Alongside objects from the significant Angus Collections, loans will be on display from National Galleries Scotland, National Museums Scotland, National Trust for Scotland, Perth Museum and many more making this a unique opportunity to learn about Angus and the Jacobites.

In association with the event, there will also be a talk by ‘Outlander’ star Scott Kyle.

Emma Gilliland, ANGUSalive Museums & Galleries Collections Lead said: “We’re excited to bring Angus’s Jacobite story to life for visitors.

“Everyone has heard about the Jacobites and Bonnie Prince Charlie, but the vital role that Angus played in the risings is little known.

“Some Jacobite objects from our collection are being exhibited for the very first time, and we will also be showcasing significant objects on loan from leading national institutions, so this is a really special exhibition.”

Scott Kyle, who played Ross in ‘Outlander’ is inviting the public to attend ‘My Outlandish Story’, which will be held at Montrose Playhouse on Saturday, August 8 at 1pm.

Award-winning actor, producer, and author Scott will share stories from behind the scenes of the international hit show, as well as ‘Kajaki’, ‘The Angels’ Share’ and ‘Billy & Tim’.

Scott’s life story is as compelling as the roles he is known for, and he will also take his audience on a journey from foster care to international screens, creative stages and global audiences.

There will be a chance to chat and share a dram with Scott, courtesy of the Bothy Distillery, and purchase a signed copy of his book, ‘It’s Not Where You Start’.

ANGUSalive would like to thank Gin Bothy, Montrose Bag Company, and Taylor’s Auctions for sponsoring Tartan & Turmoil, and to The Montrose Playhouse the Bothy Distillery for supporting ‘My Outlandish Story’.

‘Tartan & Turmoil: The Angus Jacobite Story’, will at Montrose Museum from Sunday, July 18 - Monday, November 23.

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