Young Roots
From the 19th century, materials and textiles made in Forfar were influential both locally and globally. The town grew up around the weaving industry, but by the 21st century, the trade, and most traces of its history, had all but disappeared.
Through a combination of oral history interviews, a photography exhibition, and a theatrical performance, the stories of weavers and their lives at the loom were interpreted and presented to the community in a series of public events.
The National Lottery Heritage Fund grant also enabled the purchase of a table-top loom to carry out hands-on workshops, assisted by local ex-weavers.
The project was carried out mainly by young people, who learned new skills – including weaving – and helped raise awareness of their community’s rich history.