Scottish Heraldry and The Pitsligo Castle Trust Plan.

Pitsligo Castle Trust

Banff Preservation & Heritage Society

Heraldry Society of Scotland

Heraldry, the science of identifying individuals and corporate bodies by means of certain symbols on the shape of a shield, has existed in Scotland since the middle of the twelfth century.

For over ten centuries the science has adapted to suit changing circumstances and social conditions with the result it is still a relevant and significant part of the cultural inheritance of our ancient realm.

It is used to identify buildings, objects, and precious possessions of individuals and corporate bodies such as banks, local authorities, schools, universities and commercial companies.

The signifance of the science has been recognised by Acts of the Scottish Parliament dating from 1596, 1672, 1707, and by the United Kingdom Parliament in 1867.

The result is that our country is the world leader in the administration, control, and legal protection of Scottish heraldry. However this fact does not have widespread appreciation.

St. Andrews Fund for Scots Heraldry


Fordyce Community Association

Rosehearty Community Council

The Pitsligo Castle Trust is fully aware that no Museum of Scottish Heraldry exists so that the opportunity to fill a glaring vacuum will be grasped and exploited for the benefit of visitors, scholars, pupils and the general population.

A centre of heraldic interpretation will be set up in The Former Pitsligo Parish Kirk which contains the finest Laird’s Loft in Scotland – it is also decorated with heraldic elements – to explain the science of Scottish heraldry in easy to follow stages.

This will be achieved through static graphic displays, interactive computer participation, heraldic objects and a permanent library of reference material.

Further programmes of lectures, demonstrations, period enactments and study days will be arranged to provide an education and knowledge of Scottish Heraldry.

The North-east is the richest area of heraldic heritage in Scotland and it is appropriate the Scottish Museum of Heraldry be located in its heartland.

The proposed Scottish Heraldry project by the Pitsligo Castle Trust is worthy of the fullest support and encouragement.