Doors Open Days – Victorian Horticultural Project

As part of our 150th celebrations, we’re running a heritage project inspired by the annual shows of “Dunoon and District Horticultural Society” and we’re researching the Horticultural Shows of the past which were held right here in Dunoon Burgh Hall.

“Nurserymen, gardeners and amateurs from Dunoon, Blairmore, Rothesay, Carbeth and Greenock” presented their work in these highly competitive displays each year – as you can see in the picture above, fruit and vegetables, cut flowers and pot plants were beautifully presented under the balcony as well as on our stage.

As part of the project, we will be hosting a re-interpretation of one of these shows on Saturday 21st September, to coincide with national “Doors Open Day”.

We are also looking for volunteers who are interested in researching or contributing to this topic, and who would also like to take part in organised visits to local archives and to Benmore Botanic Garden. Bring your enthusiasm – no prior knowledge or skills are required! We’re also looking for people to contribute flowers, fruit and vegetables to display at our event in September. Anyone at all can get involved – from humble pot plants to extravagant flower displays and even paper flowers.

All are welcome!