Event Details: Doon Valley Museum

Doon Valley Museum The Doon Valley Museum is located in a conversion of one of the oldest buildings in Dalmellington (dating from 1744). It was saved from demolition in the 1980s and now serves the community as a museum, art gallery and meeting place. The museum room interprets the rich social and industrial history of the area, in particular the coal mines, the ironworks, and the communities that grew up alongside them. These are presented through a collection of photographs and artefacts donated by local people. We also celebrate anniversaries of local events and groups. Two other exhibition galleries exhibit a wide range of exhibitions each year by professional and amateur artists. A large collection of photographs and maps is available for use by researchers of family and local history. Doon Valley Story Our permanent museum displays explore some of the rich heritage of the Doon Valley - with a focus on mining and how it affects the communities of the area. Schools/ Groups We welcome school and organised group visits throughout the year. We will also help you to organise joint visits with other local partners, such as a tour of an open-cast mine. Call the museum on 01292 550633 or email elaine.mackie@east-ayrshire.gov.uk for more information.

Research Lab The museum has a large collection of old photographs and maps that can be used by local and history researchers. Access is free and available during our normal opening hours. However, space is limited so please arrange your visit first by calling the museum on 01292 550633 or by emailing elaine.mackie@east-ayrshire.gov.uk Mining And Quarrying The extraction of the natural resources found in the region has long been at the core of many aspects of the area’s development - its communities, buildings, and economic importance being among them. The success and subsequent decline of mining and quarrying in the region has directly influenced towns and communities, some of which have struggled to find alternative employment. For more information on Robert Burns and many other famous people from Ayrshire log onto www.futuremuseum.co.uk