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Scotland’s past

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From battlefields to books, the places and collections in our care hold the keys to Scotland’s history.

Ancient sites that tell the stories of our ancestors. Battlefields where famous fights were lost and won. Monuments that honour the nation’s heroes. Everyday objects from a bygone era. All shine a light on our past, and without them Scotland’s rich history would fade away.

Our collections contain over 300,000 items, from Charles Rennie Mackintosh interiors to original Robert Burns manuscripts. We look after 101 Scheduled Ancient Monuments, ranging from prehistoric standing stones to medieval ruins, and there are over 10,000 archaeological sites across our land, covering almost every period of Scottish history.

Telling the stories of the people who have gone before us is a crucial part of the Trust’s work. In every corner of the country, we work tirelessly to keep Scotland’s legacy and traditions alive for future generations. And, we need your support!

A close-up of a section of a manuscript, written by Robert Burns, with a verse from Auld Lang Syne. The paper and ink are sepia in colour.

A donation to the Trust can help us undertake vital work where there’s the greatest need or immediate risk – whether we’re supporting archaeological work at historic sites, keeping fragile collections safe, or protecting one of our ancient monuments. Together, we can explore, protect and pay tribute to Scotland’s past.

Did you know?

At Robert Burns Birthplace Museum alone we look after over 5,500 artefacts. These include Burns’s handwritten manuscripts, books and letters, as well as musical instruments, writing sets and even the wedding ring worn by his wife, Jean Armour.

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