Atholl Country Life Museum

Overview

Opened in 1981 after the building was closed as a school in 1974, it became a home to a unique gathering of artefacts, photographs and information on the social history of the area, some collected by a local farmer who attended this school and whose family have been in Atholl since early 1700. Many of the characters portrayed were his friends and acquaintances.

Other local people have given generously of their time and talents and the collection has been much enhanced by donations of artefacts and photographs. The lease of the building was kindly granted by the late Duke of Atholl.

The Old School was a place of learning for over 140 years. We hope that young and not so young will still find it a place of learning and also enjoyment - and "naebody need be feart o' getting the tawse".

GAMEKEEPERS CORENER - spot the wildlife and read the recollections of Andrew McKay a well known gamekeeper.
OLD KITCHEN WITH BOX BED - Kirsty is baking on the peat fire while her old father arises from his bed.
EXTENSIVE COLLECTION OF HORSE HARNESS - some made locally by John Seaton in the shoemakers shop. You can see some of his equipment and the interesting story of his family.
ROAD & RAIL SERVICES - Dr Anderson's horse sleigh, photo of the Ben Y Gloe steam engine and many more.
TRINAFOUR POST OFFICE & SHOP - reconstructed, well stocked shelves and wooden telephone box.
THE CALEDONIAN SHIELD - for rifle shooting, a magnificent example of Scottish art and Britains largest trophy (Guiness book of records) competed for yearly.
THE SMIDDY - Bob Wood & Bob Kennedy were two of the last blacksmiths in the local smiddy, which was a great meeting place. The bellows and tools of their trade can be seen with reminiscences by Bob Kennedy of his work and of when the circus came to town.


Children are most welcome and can try the quiz, sit in the old school desk and handle objects in the kiddies kist.