Culture And Memory

Shinty’s Story – Sgeul na Camanachd

To facilitate the promotion of Shinty, Camanachd Association (CA) aim to install a Shinty Experience Exhibition, ‘Shinty’s Story – Sgeul na Camanachd’, formed of physical and digital content, on the ground floor of Highland Council’s sports pavilion (operated by Highlife Highland) at the Bught Park. The project enables the Association to reach and teach a wider audience about the sport of shinty, it’s historical foundations, cultural significance and role in modern society. The opportunity created through the Levelling Up Fund’s investment into Bught Park must be capitalised on. The creation of a blank canvas (which will be leased by the Association), ready to be enriched with artefacts, learning experiences and cultural content is a huge opportunity for both the Association, and indeed for the communities of the Highlands and beyond. It is hoped that visitors to the exhibition will leave feeling an enrichment in their understanding of Scotland, the Highlands and the role that shinty plays in the rich tapestry of Scottish culture. Furthermore, it is hoped that this enhanced understanding will lead to more people taking up the sport in a number of capacities such as, but not limited to: playing, volunteering, fandom, officiating, caman making and research. 'Shinty’s Story – Sgeul na Camanachd' will become one of the must-see features for locals and tourists visiting Inverness as well as attracting sporting enthusiasts from across the country, thus creating a wider economic benefit to the businesses in Inverness and the surrounding area. Additionally, it will provide local people with a greater sense of pride and connection with Bught Park and Inverness as a whole, as they will enhance their understanding of its crucial role in the development of shinty and Highland life. The enrichment of the local community’s understanding of the cultural role of the sport will encourage them to learn more about their local area and enhance their appreciation of place.