Project to preserve Scottish Women’s Institute archives given funding boost ahead of Dumfries move

A project to preserve the Scottish Women’s Institutes’ archives has received a funding boost as it prepares for relocation to Dumfries. The SWI is collaborating with The Crichton Trust on a £15 million redevelopment project to transform a former laundry building into exhibition galleries, workshops, archive rooms, and national offices for the organization. The National Lottery Heritage Fund has awarded a grant of £127,175 to safeguard and conserve the SWI’s archive and collection for future generations.

SWI’s national president, Mary Burney, expressed gratitude for the support from The National Lottery Heritage Fund, highlighting the importance of preserving historically significant items that showcase women’s vital roles in Scottish society over the past century. The archive documents women’s contributions to Scottish communities, their growing influence, decision-making abilities, and their efforts in preserving crafting and cultural traditions. Without this funding, the collection, which includes handicrafts, documents, photos, and Royal correspondence, would have been at risk of being lost forever.

In addition to conserving thousands of items, the funding will enable the SWI to train volunteers to collect oral histories from current members, ensuring recent history is preserved through podcasts. This heritage project, titled “Preserving the Past to Inspire the Future,” is crucial as the SWI’s collection and archive are set to be housed in a new visitor learning centre at the Crichton in 2027. The upcoming facility, named The Laundry, will serve as a vibrant hub offering exhibitions of the SWI’s and The Crichton’s collections, archives, and a diverse range of courses and workshops.

The collaboration between the SWI and The Crichton Trust signifies a significant step towards preserving and promoting women’s contributions to Scottish society. The funding boost from The National Lottery Heritage Fund will not only ensure the conservation of valuable historical items but also inspire future generations by celebrating the essential role women have played in shaping Scottish communities and traditions.

Insights:
Preserving historical archives, especially those documenting the contributions of women, is crucial for ensuring that future generations understand and appreciate the significant roles played by women in society. Initiatives like the one funded by The National Lottery Heritage Fund not only protect tangible heritage but also contribute to ongoing cultural and social narratives. By investing in the preservation of archival materials, organisations can continue to educate, inspire, and empower individuals through the stories and achievements of those who have come before them.