Rediscover rare sheep and delve into divining at two special Museums events

Two Museum events coming on 23 September 2023

There are two free events happening - at the Orkney Museum, Tankerness House in Kirkwall and Kirbuster Museum in Birsay, this Saturday, 23 September.

Samantha Gray is giving a workshop and an informal talk about her exhibition ‘Dowsing at Brodgar’ at 11.00 am, on the ground floor of the Orkney Museum. Folk will have the chance to try their hand at dowsing (otherwise known as divining). After a short discussion about her work, attendees will be given dowsing rods to see if they can locate a water source, or any other findings, around the museum grounds. Please wear appropriate clothing as this activity will take place outside the museum building if the weather is suitable. This workshop is for adults only (over 18), and is strictly limited to eight people. Bookings are essential and can be made through the Orkney Museum on 01856 873191. If this event proves popular a further workshop for 12–18-year-olds will be available at a future date.

That same afternoon there will be a talk and demonstration at 2.00 pm at Kirbuster Museum by Jane Cooper. This is based on her new book, ‘The Lost Flock’, uncovering the ancient breeds of sheep farmed in Orkney and Scotland, exploring their importance in the lives of farmers and crofters and how they were farmed. From meat and milk to processing and using their wool, including a demonstration of spinning on the type of spinning wheel that would have been in use at Kirbuster before the modern era.

Jane Cooper’s passion for knitting led her to discover the world of rare-breed sheep and their wool, igniting a quest for knowledge that would ultimately change the course of her life. Jane uncovered the ‘Orkney Boreray’ – a unique group within the UK’s rarest breed of sheep and one of the few surviving examples of primitive sheep in Northern Europe. Copies of her book will be available for sale and will be signed by the author on the day.

Both these events are free, as is admission to both museums.

Pictured here is a photo of Jane Cooper (courtesy of Cara Cooper), and of Samantha Gray deep in 'dowsing' concentration.

You can find opening hours at www.orkneymuseums.co.uk