The recording of Catherine Erskine's talk on the Cambo Estate is now available to view.

Falkland and its People 1901–1913

A review by David Munro

For anyone who enjoys visiting Falkland Palace, exploring the streets, wynds and closes of historic Falkland or strolling through the leafy designed landscape of the Falkland Estate, the publications of The Falkland Society are an invaluable source shedding light on this idyllic corner of Fife in the shadow of the Lomond Hills.

Hot off the press, as 2020 draws to a close, is the latest offering from The Falkland Society - a 560-page hardback volume entitled Falkland and its People 1901-1913. Researched by Thomas Playfair and edited by Ross Burgess, this new book draws on a wide range of newspapers, Town Council minutes and Falkland Estate papers to reveal a fascinating insight into all aspects of daily life in Falkland in the Edwardian period. More than 60 illustrations and four maps also provide a visual feast highlighting people, places and events of the time.

Between the pages we can visualise the last days of handloom weaving and the growth of linen and floorcloth factories as major employers alongside the arrival of motor cars, the telephone and piped water as well as plans for a Falkland Light Railway. In addition to local markets, fairs and sporting activities, great social events are recorded such as celebrations to mark the coronation of King Edward VII and the wedding of local laird Lord Ninian Crichton-Stuart.