SESSION b

Blazing a trail

The Museum of Scottish Fire Heritage is a soon to be opened museum. The redevelopment phase has been slow and steady (The Covid-19 pandemic and lockdowns have delayed the project by about 18 months). Part of our redevelopment process was learning directly from our bank of dedicated volunteers, many of whom have first-hand lived experience of the museums subject matter- firefighting. These volunteers also had been a huge part of the creation and cultivation of the previous museum site and had strong ideas and ideals about how the space should look/operate. 

Developing a new museum is a challenge at the best of times, but what happens when you are part of a very small team moving an existing museum and searching for a new home for the collection whilst working as part of an organisation where museums and heritage is not the main focus?  

Speakers Bio

Kelly McMeekin, Museum Manager, Museum of Scottish Fire Heritage (Scottish Fire and Rescue Service) 

Heritage lead for the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service. Driving the redevelopment of the Museum of Scottish Fire Heritage, telling the story of the evolution of firefighting in Scotland, and it has, and continues to shape communities today. Working in the heritage sector since 2003, with a primary interest in museums, social history and cultural development within the community setting.    

Jim McDonald, Museum Volunteer, Retired Firefighter

Jim McDonald started his working life with Lothian and Border Fire Brigade back in March 1978, retiring at the rank of Watch Commander after 30 years of dedicated service. He started volunteering with the museum,  back when it was situated in the old fire station at Lauriston Place and he has been volunteering for the last 12 years. He has always had an interest in heritage, brigade history and preserving appliances and a chance  conversation during a visit to the museum as a general visitor is how his volunteering journey got started. Jim’ special interest are in the equipment, appliances, anything mechanical and he will do his best to repair or make anything which helps in the preservation of fire service heritage.