A group of Dumfriesshire volunteers are celebrating the return of an important historic artefact which was removed almost 30 years ago.
The Penpont, Keir and Tynron Heritage Centre is housed in Sundial Cottage and commemorates the life of Joseph Thomson, a Victorian explorer of Africa who was born in the building in 1858, and also celebrates the culture of the local communities represented.
However, the sundial – carved by Thomson’s father and master stonemason, William, when the family lived there in the 1850s and 60s – has been absent since 1996.
The Thomsons sold the cottage in 1868 for £75 and moved to Gatelawbridge and its history continued when Buccleuch Estates bought it and let it to tenants.
The last were Jean and Doug Carson, who lived there from 1925. After becoming a widow in 1960, Jean stayed on as the sole occupant until 1996 and her long tenancy ensured that the building remained very much as it was in the Thomsons’ time with most of its original features.
Sophia Harkness, president of the group, said: “After the last tenant left in 1996, the sundial was mothballed at Drumlanrig Castle while renovations were in progress at the cottage which has become our heritage centre.
“Now, we are delighted that it is back at Sundial Cottage for the start of our summer season tomorrow.
“We are also grateful to Colin Allardyce and George Ferguson of the Queensberry Estate who brought it back and volunteers, Mervin Halliday and Billy Wallace, who have installed it in its original position in the front garden.
The centre will be open on Saturdays to the end of August between 1pm and 4pm. It is also open by appointment for visits by calling 01848 330 411 or 07760 700 141.
