Travelling people’s heritage celebrated in awareness project
The heritage and culture of Scotland’s travelling community is being highlighted in a major project to raise awareness of the country’s “oldest indigenous people” and tackle prejudice against them.
The Elphinstone Institute at Aberdeen University, which researches folklore and ethnology, has put together a programme to mark both the traditions of the community and the contemporary experiences of its people.
Today, there are at least 4,000 people in the Gypsy/ Traveller community in Scotland, which dates back to the 12th Century, although some believe the figure could be as high as 20,000.
Most Gypsy/travellers are found in Perth and Kinross, Edinburgh, Glasgow and Aberdeen City.
Dr Tom Mckean, director of the Elphinstone Institute, said travellers were Scotland’s oldest indigenous people with the programme designed to raise awareness of the community, its past and the challenges it faces.
He added: “We are proud to honour Traveller culture right at the heart of the University.
“Travellers have been part of life in Scotland for hundreds of years, and an essential part of North-east life, from skilled tinsmithing and basket-making to seasonal harvest work. It’s a different world view.
“Many Travellers interact with the environment in a much more extensive and intimate way than settled folk.
“For them, the ‘world’s room’ is their home and their traditional campsites are essential part of identity.”
A traveller encampment, complete with traditional bow tent,madefromhazelandcanvas, is being set up at Aberdeen University this weekend as part of May Fest.
Dr Mckean added: “We’re presentingatravellerencampment to emphasise the fact that travellers have been here long before most of us, and this world of the road belongs to them – it is their home.
“It’s important to recognise that and celebrate it, rather than decry it.”
“In addition to appreciating a rich world-view different from that of settled folk, Traveller culture abounds in traditions, from place and plant lore to practical skills and crafts, from remarkable ballads and songs to wonderful story traditions with local and international connections.”
Authors and storytellers Jess Smith and Essie Stewart will bring their experience of the traveller community to the event. University student Davie Donaldson will talk of life as a young traveller with a traveller girl due to speak about her experiences of the education system.
alison.campsie@scotsman.com