"Situated on the slopes of Bennachie, remains of the hill’s 19th century crofting settlement are still visible to this day. But despite around 150,000 visitors every year, few people are aware of the history, heritage and community behind the Bennachie Colony.
Since 2010, Dr Jo Vergunst from the University of Aberdeen has been working closely with the local community and volunteer conservation society, the Bailies of Bennachie, to encourage interest in the history of the area."
Project summary and aims
Significant work was undertaken to uncover the archaeology of the Colony and to record its oral and archival history, which drew on the collective expertise of a group of academics from the University including Dr Liz Curtis, Dr Jeff Oliver, Dr Gordon Noble, Dr Jackson Armstrong and Neil Curtis. The researchers worked closely with the wider community throughout the project, training volunteers and engaging local schools and the general public.