New exhibition to celebrate the literary history of Stirling
Stirling’s remarkable literary history is being celebrated at a new exhibition to mark the city’s 900th anniversary.
Article Source: Stirling Council
Last Updated: 4 February 2025 11:38
A large-scale, colourful timeline at Stirling’s Central Library will showcase the city’s incredible contribution to Scotland’s literary heritage over the centuries, from authors to poets.
The first half of the display explores literary figures connected to or inspired by Stirling, such as Blind Harry, Mary Queen of Scots, James V, Robert Burns and Walter Scott.
It will also shed light on Stirling’s renowned chapbook (a popular form of street literature in Europe from the 16th to 19th centuries) makers such William Cameron, Dougal Graham, and Graham Harvey and much more.
The second half of the timeline focuses on the 20th and 21st centuries and the contemporary writers who are shaping Stirling’s vibrant literary scene today.
As part of the exhibition, visitors will also have a rare opportunity to view Central Library's rare collection of historical poetry and chapbooks that are not on public display.
Stirling Council Depute Leader, Cllr Gerry McGarvey said: “Stirling is central to the history of Scotland so it’s no surprise to see the area’s connection to some of the nation’s most famous literary figures and how it has influenced them throughout the last 900 years.
“This free exhibition is an opportunity to find out more about this important and fascinating part of Stirling’s story, from Robert Burns scratching rebellion poetry onto the window of the Golden Lion Hotel to the cave near Bridge of Allan that inspired Robert Louis Stevenson to write Treasure Island.
“It takes you right up to the present day and how Stirling became home to Bloody Scotland which has grown into one of the most famous crime-writing festivals in the world.
“It’s a remarkable tale – so come along to Stirling Central Library to find out more as we continue to celebrate Stirling’s special milestone.”
The exhibition will officially open with a special launch event on Wednesday 12 February (6-7pm) and will remain available to view for the rest of the year.
The official opening event will include a guided talk by Stirling Council Libraries’ Jonathan Kaney on Stirling’s literary achievements past and present.
Admission is free and refreshments will be provided. Spaces are limited. To book a ticket, ask in the library, email centralibrary@stirling.gov.uk or call 01786 237760.
Image: (from left) are Stirling Council Depute Leader, Cllr Gerry McGarvey, and Jonathan Kaney, Senior Library Assistant Stirling Council.
Image credit: Whyler Photos & Stirling Council.
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