Uaireiginn Dhan T-Saoghal
Once Upon a Time
Taigh Sheumais Iain Chailein
This exhibition provides a unique insight into our traditional Blackhouse as it would have been, offering an immersive and authentic experience of how our ancestors lived. It serves a poignant reminder of the hardships they endured and the progress we have made over time. This perspective appeals to all ages – offering younger visitors a glimpse into history and evoking memories for older generations.
Bentangaval Settlements video Guides
Journey through history and explore our Islands rich past with our immersive video guides of 9 different settlements on the Bentangaval Peninsula on our island. Watch as we take you through 9 fascinating sites, bringing the past to life with stories and insights about how people lived back then. Follow along with booklet and dive deeper into history with our information boards and artefacts - your journey into our unique past starts here!
This years exhibitions is predominately in Gaelic, with English translation. Immerse yourself in the beauty of our language as you explore our history through a reflective lens.
Discovering Peggy Angus
Discover the work of Peggy Angus (1904 - 1993) - a designer, teacher and painter known for her bold wallpaper and mural designs. she began her career as a painter and muralist before pioneering handcrafted wallpaper patterns.
Peggy travelled widely and developed a strong connection to Barra, purchasing The Higgins House in the 1950s. some of her distinctive wallpaper designs are on display at our centre - visit to explore her creative legacy!
Our Research Room
Step back in time and uncover the rich history of our Island in our dedicated Research Room. Whether you're a history enthusiast, a researcher, or just curious about the past, this space is filled with fascinating resources waiting to be explored.
You can find our historic photographs with our vast collection of captivating images that capture the people, places and moments that shaped our islands story.
Flip through the pages of our old newspapers from years gone by, offering a glimpse into daily life, significant events and cultural traditions.
Explore our remarkable collection of medals, each with it's own story to tell. these artefacts represent acts of bravery, service, achievement connecting us to the lives of those who came before us.
Whether you're researching your family's history, studying our islands culture, or simply looking to experience a slice of our past, our research room is the perfect place to begin your journey into our history.
Previously Hosted Exhibitions
Emigration Canada 1922 -1924
In 2023 we were proud to host a Homecoming event to celebrate and mark the occasion of the centenary of emigration to Canada between 1922 – 1924.
This event called descendants of emigrants who wished to visit the island of their forefathers to participate in this landmark celebration.
We currently have an exhibition in Barra Heritage Centre based on emigration to Canada between 1922 -1924, with a last chance to see this year.
Model Boats
We displayed model boats made by the late Neil MacDonald when he had spare time on his trips at sea, including the model of the Annie Jane. This was a common pass time for men because of their long trips whilst at sea.
Fishing Industry
Our island has deep roots in the fishing industry, a heritage we take great pride in.
Our Silver Darlings exhibition ran from 2023 -2024.
Starting around the 10th May, they sailed from Barra all the way around the coast, followed by the gutting crew, young and old, finishing off generally at Yarmouth in December.
More information, pictures and artefacts are available at Barra Heritage Centre.
Our Homecoming video is available to watch at our centre just ask a member of our staff.
