Press Release
Shetland Museum and Archives Memorable Hamefarin Month
Shetland Museum and Archives have welcomed record numbers of visitors through the doors during the past two months. The exhibitions and events run as part of the Hamefarin celebrations attracted almost 11,000 people from the far corners of the world in June. Visitor numbers have continued to rise in July with figures expected to be as high as 12,000.
Visitor Services Assistant Cathy Hallet said “The Hamefarin period was the busiest I have ever seen in the museum. Folk had come from all over the world and were just so keen to look at everything and learn as much as we could tell them about Shetland’s heritage and culture. “
In addition to the permanent exhibitions, Da Gadderie has been running a special exhibition with artefacts, photos and stories from Shetland emigrants. Museum exhibition staff were delighted with the response of visitors to the displays. Talks highlighting some of the individual stories of Shetland travellers complemented the exhibition and were well received. The exhibition has continued to attract visitors throughout July.
Hamefarers were invited on a free boat trip around Lerwick Harbour on board the ‘Pilot Us’. Visitor Service Assistants Trevor Jamieson and Laurie Goodlad took to the seas with 151 people over the two weeks of the Hamefarin celebrations. Margaret Thwaites from Western Australia commented “What a wonderful boat trip. One of the highlights of my stay in Shetland.”
June saw over 120 people accessing the Archives to research family history. Visitors from nine countries including Australia and New Zealand, the USA and Canada, France, Germany, Norway and The Netherlands made use of the Archive resources to trace family roots. Assistant Archivist Joanne Wishart said ‘We were inundated at the Archives during the Hamefarin, and were the busiest we have ever been. Lots of visitors came regularly and were able to find out vast amounts about their ancestors, that they couldn’t have found elsewhere.’
The Shetland Museum and Archives shop saw a very busy month. Shetland themed books were particularly popular with Hamfarers, accounting for nearly half of sales. Other popular products included souvenirs, jewellery and woolen goods. Visitor Services Assistant Cushla Bretton said “Products in the shop are selected for their quality and cultural relevance. The local craftspeople who supply us can be proud that their hard work has been so clearly appreciated by visitors.”
Hays Dock Café Restaurant has also seen an increase in trade and a very busy period. The fresh local produce and panoramic harbour views were a big hit with Hamefarers. Lunch times continue to be very busy with holiday visitors and locals alike.
The Hamefarin celebrations and exhibition have been a great success. Shetland Museum and Archives staff have been delighted with the interest and enthusiasm shown by visitors for Shetland’s heritage and culture.
