Retired librarian and archivist, Don Martin MBE, was nominated for this year’s Provost’s Champion Awards for his lifelong service to researching and preserving the history and heritage of East Dunbartonshire for future generations.
For 41 years Don was Secretary of the Kirkintilloch and District Society of Antiquaries, and he remains on the committee to this day. For the last 15 years he has been editor of Scotland Local History Magazine and has disseminated his extensive knowledge of local heritage through exhibitions, talks and guided walks.
Don has also been the driving force in organising official recognition of the bicentenary of the Monkland and Kirkintilloch Railway and its impact on the area and the Scottish railway industry. Earlier this year he and Provost Renwick officially unveiled the National Transport Red Wheel Plaque commemorating the historical railway at Southbank Marina and he assisted in the preparation of an exhibition on the railway in the Auld Kirk Museum. In addition, he delivered lectures, led guided walks and launched a book on its history.
Provost Gillian Renwick, said, “I don’t believe there is anything Don doesn’t know about the history of Kirkintilloch and East Dunbartonshire; his extensive knowledge and dedication to sharing his research with the community makes him thoroughly deserving of this year’s Arts & Heritage Award. Over many years Don has given up his time to deliver talks, arrange exhibitions and lead guided walks and furthermore, having fastidiously kept records, compiled photographs and written books, he has helped preserve our local history for future generations."
It was an honour to present Don with this award and to thank him on behalf of the people of East Dunbartonshire for all his hard work and dedication to safeguarding our heritage.
Don Martin MBE said, “Local history has been my hobby since I was a boy, and I have always considered myself very lucky to have had a career doing something I loved. I was a local studies librarian with Strathkelvin District Council and then East Dunbartonshire Council, and despite retiring in 2009, my interest in local history has never waned. I get so much out of being a member of the different societies and groups I’m involved with, and I have no plans to stop researching or sharing my interest in the subject any time soon!”
He continued, “I feel privileged to have led a life doing what I love and I am very flattered to have been awarded the Provost’s Arts & Heritage Champion Award this year. Thank you.”
