Lochmaben is situated in the ‘debatable lands’ on the main route into Scotland from Carlisle. The area has historic connections to the family of Robert the Bruce.

In 2011, Lochmaben District and Community Initiative decided to compile ‘Lochmaben Voices’ – a living history project. Several members interviewed and recorded some older residents who were encouraged to talk about their lives, their memories and the changes they had witnessed. Further interviews included younger residents.

In direct testimony we learn about the changes wrought over decades in this vibrant community. Those changes – loss of transport links and a changed High Street – will be familiar to folk from similar-sized places across Scotland and the UK.

However, not all is change. We also learn about the continuing importance of sporting activities, sailing, golf and football. Most importantly, we learn about some of the individuals that make up the life of this Royal Burgh – the uniqueness of each life experience coming together to form the place that is Lochmaben.

Published by NMSE – Publishing in association with the European Ethnological Research Centre (EERC) in the Regional Flashbacks series: General Editor Mark A Mulhern

Editors: Isabelle C Gow and Sheila Findlay

208 pages

235 x 156mm

8 pages colour art section

Paperback