At the beginning of 2024, we received a significant financial injection of over £39,000. This funding will go towards employing new staff, organizing events, and safeguarding the invaluable museum collection for the year ahead.

This exciting development is part of the Burns, Barns, and Byres project, generously supported by Historic Environment Scotland, Museums Galleries Scotland, and The People’s Postcode Lottery.

Under the project’s umbrella, two dedicated staff members, Dr Siobhan McDonald and Adam Dickson, have recently reopened Ellisland for the 2024 season. They kicked off the season with a delightful Easter weekend filled with activities like egg painting, rolling, and treasure hunts for families to enjoy.

Siobhan, the Project Manager, brings a wealth of knowledge with a PhD in English Literature from the University of St Andrews and a background in education. Meanwhile, Adam, the Project Officer, hails from Stranraer and holds a recent Museums Studies postgraduate degree from the University of Glasgow. He’ll be responsible for the care of Ellisland’s precious Burns artifacts under the mentorship of Dr. David Hopes, a seasoned museum professional.

Ellisland, constructed by the legendary Robert Burns in 1788, holds exceptional historic and cultural significance as the birthplace of classics like “Auld Lang Syne” and “Tam o Shanter.”

Aside from educational workshops and an exciting events line-up set to be unveiled soon, Siobhan and Adam are committed to ensuring the museum and site remain accessible to visitors throughout the season. Ellisland is now open Wednesday to Saturday from 11 am to 4 pm, welcoming visitors from across Scotland and all around the world.