East Dunbartonshire’s heritage will be brought to life next month through a series of thought-provoking events to celebrate Local History Month.
The programme, organised by East Dunbartonshire Leisure and Culture Trust in partnership with East Dunbartonshire’s heritage, history and community groups, will run from Monday 2 March until Tuesday 31 March.
Exhibitions and activities celebrating the area’s rich history, including walks, talks and exhibitions, have been organised at venues across the area.
Learn more about the fascinating lives of local people including Rita Cowan whose extraordinary journey from Kirkintilloch to Japan is featured in a talk - The Ballad of Rita and Masataka - by local playwright Alan Muir at Kirkintilloch Town Hall.
John Yellowlees of the National Transport Trust Scotland will share a fascinating insight into Scotland’s early railways including the Monkland & Kirkintilloch line, while historian Michael Halpenny will share his research during a talk at Kirkintilloch Town Hall on the infamous Kirkintilloch Bothy Fire of 1937. There is also a presentation by local author Hugh Gaffney on the mining industry entitled Auchengeich - Gone but not Forgotten.
For those keen to get out and about, guided walks include Milngavie Town Centre - Past and Present – and a tour around Gavin’s Mill in Milngavie. For younger budding historians there is a Family Fun Day - Children of the Past – with craft activities and dressing up at William Patrick Library and a Kids’ Dig, also at Gavin’s Mill.
Alan Wright, Chair of East Dunbartonshire Leisure and Culture Trust, said, "We are delighted to announce the programme for this year’s Local History Month, which offers a great opportunity to find out more about this area’s fascinating past.
“In addition to the scheduled events, there are various displays across our venues which you can drop into at your own convenience and which offer a fascinating insight into the past.
“Whether exploring our industrial heritage, stepping back into the social history of our communities, or, literally, walking in the footsteps of our ancestors in one of the guided walks, there is something for everyone.”
The full Local History Month 2026 programme is now available on the EDLC website.
For more information on any of the events contact archives@eastdunbarton.gov.uk or call 0141 777 3142.
If you want to find your local heritage or history group visit the East Dunbartonshire Heritage and History Forum website.
You can also go on your own heritage and art walk exploring local stories on routes with QR codes. Downloadable maps can be found on the trails and tales website.
