The Inveraray Castle Archives, a treasure trove of historical documents dating from the 13th century, are one of Britain’s most important private collections. These priceless records, carefully managed by archivist Alison Diamond and her dedicated team, are kept safe in the Scottish estate’s renovated poultry barn. This collection, freed from the ravages of time and fire, offers a glimpse of the past like no other. The documents reveal not only the history of the estate but also a vivid tapestry of political drama and intrigue, a story rich enough to rival Shakespearean tales.
The surviving pages of Lord Lorne’s diary, written when he was a boy, provide a fascinating glimpse into his life and travels. Unfortunately, due to water damage from firefighting efforts, some pages remain stuck together, hiding secrets waiting to be revealed by skilled conservators. Conservation, although costly, is essential to ensure the longevity of these precious archives. Every sheet of paper, every book with a damaged spine requires meticulous care and can cost a fortune. So these historical gems, with stories from long ago, are waiting for their turn to be included in the restoration, protecting the heritage of Inveraray Castle for future generations to be grateful for.
