Tuesday 12 March 2024

Event Description

Iron has a major role in Scotland’s historic environment, from simple decorative railings to elaborate and complex structures. Our three morning talks will explore the nature and characteristics of the raw and finished materials and how they weather over time.

We will share the principles of best practice for the repair and conservation of ironwork. We will also focus on Scotland’s traditions of producing high quality architectural and structural cast iron for use around the UK and across the globe.

A networking lunch will provide you with the opportunity to continue discussions and explore the Engine Shed.

In the afternoon, the speakers will lead a walking tour around Stirling’s Old Town to discuss a wide range of ironwork conservation issues.

Learning outcomes

You will:

• understand the physical characteristics of iron and how it weathers and decays over time
• discover the origins and traditions of working wrought iron, and the techniques for its repair and conservation
• understand the basic processes for casting iron for architectural, structural and sanitary purposes
• learn about Scotland’s dominant 19th-century role in the production and export of cast iron for building purposes
• understand standards of best practice for conservation and repair of wrought and cast iron

Speakers

• Gordon Urquhart, Postgraduate Course Manager at Historic Environment Scotland
• Ali Davey, Project Manager – Traditional Skills at Historic Environment Scotland
• David Mitchell, Director of Cultural Assets at Historic Environment Scotland