The six lodges were completed in 1989 to the south of the main site. The newly created self-catering log cabins became a hit with visitors at this time. This was completed in 1997 thanks to the generous help of Catherine Teague Matthews who funded the project in memory of her mother. Other projects within the gardens included a third pond installed in 1995, and the restoration of the historic bridge. The ‘Great Wall of Armadale’ was a three-year project completed in 1991, creating a sheltered wall along the back lawn where flowers and shrubs could thrive. Major projects: During the 1990s, CDLT saw multiple longer term initiatives come to fruition. Work also began on acquiring the Macdonald Estate Papers, which finally returned home to Skye in 1991. Museum acquisitions included Highland pistols made by Doune, Marshal Macdonald’s Baton and a number of Jacobite papers and pamphlets. An annual Junior Clarsach Competition would be inaugurated in 1990. Ellice and his wife, Rosa Laird McDonald, were generous benefactors and their support over many years has been invaluable to the success of the Trust.Īrts & culture: Other CDLT projects throughout the 1980s include support for the Gaelic Arts, including the establishment of the Donald MacDonald Quaich Piobaireachd Competition in partnership with the Skye Piping Society, and donations of clarsachs to local primary schools.
In 1988 alone, almost 50,000 visitors came through the gates and were able to see the museum exhibition ‘The Headship of the Gael’ or Ceannas nan Gàidheal. A popular Ranger Service was also introduced in the mid-1980s.Ĭhair of the Executive Committee at this time, Ellice McDonald, Jr, was a driving force in these and many other achievements. The castle ruins were stabilised during this period, with a garden planted in the sculptured ruin of the southern section.Ī clan gathering in 1981 attracted 350 clan members, and by 1986 Armadale had welcomed its 250,000 th visitor. The year 1985 saw the creation of two ponds. Going from strength to strength: During the 1980s the gardens progressed magnificently under Tim Godfrey as Head Gardener. Today the Stables continues to thrive as a lively eating and drinking venue. The cafe and shop moved there from the Castle. MacDonald from Tennessee also provided valuable support.Īfter two years of building work, the Stables was officially opened by clansfolk on. In realising this major project the Trust was particularly indebted to long-term benefactors Nestor and Helen MacDonald of New Jersey. Stables restoration: Under the stewardship of Rob McDonald Parker as International Director, working closely with the Trust’s Executive Committee, CDLT fundraised, planned and successfully restored the Stables building.
With his tragic early death in 1984 the Trust lost one of its greatest supporters. The main part of the castle was in a poor state of repair and could not be restored.įinance for the Visitor Centre project was generously provided by Canadian benefactor David MacDonald Stewart, whose patronage had been invaluable since the early days of the Trust.
Opening in 1976 it provided a focal point for visitors, housing a tea room, museum and gift shop. Visitor Centre opens: The mid-1970s were spent reclaiming the gardens and rebuilding the end section of the castle – the remains of the original 18th century manor house – to create a visitor centre. It was, in effect, one of Scotland’s first community land acquisitions. On 31 July 1971, the Trust completed the purchase of the 20,000 acre estate it holds to this day. The support amassed on this appeal allowed the Clan Donald Lands Trust (CDLT) to come into being. Macdonald of Castleton, President of the Clan Donald Society of Edinburgh, the young Lord and Lady Macdonald set off on a 10-week fundraising appeal across North America in May 1971. 1970sĪcquisition by the clan community: The death of Alexander Godfrey Macdonald, 7th Lord Macdonald, in November 1970, necessitated the sale of the Macdonald Estates in order to cover death duties and inherited honourable debts. And don’t miss our museum exhibition opening in March 2022, celebrating Armadale Castle past, present and future. Look out for our #CDLT50 posts on social media to see more stories from the archives.
There’s so much to mention, and we’ve only been able to pick a few highlights here. As Clan Donald Lands Trust reaches its half century milestone we take a look at some of the achievements of the past 50 years.