Flora MacDonald statue restoration marks a new chapter for Inverness Castle

The restoration of Flora MacDonald's statue is part of a larger project to enhance Inverness Castle.

The iconic bronze statue of Flora MacDonald, a celebrated figure in Scottish history, is set to undergo a significant restoration as part of the ongoing £36 million redevelopment of Inverness Castle. This project aims to transform the castle into a world-class visitor attraction, complete with interactive exhibitions that will bring the rich history of the Highlands to life.

Historical significance of Flora MacDonald

Flora MacDonald, a 24-year-old woman from South Uist, became a legendary figure for her daring role in aiding the escape of Prince Charles Edward Stuart after the Battle of Culloden in 1746. With government troops hot on their trail and a hefty reward for the prince’s capture, Flora risked her life to help him flee from Benbecula to Skye.

Disguised as an Irish maid named Betty Burke, the prince’s escape was not only a remarkable act of bravery but also inspired the famous Skye Boat Song.

Restoration details and community involvement

The restoration of the statue, which has stood for 129 years, will begin at the end of March or early April.

Specialists will work for two to three weeks to clean the statue, removing green discoloration caused by weather and bird droppings. The statue will then be treated with a pigmented lacquer and multiple coats of wax to restore its original bronze color and ensure its longevity.

In addition to the statue’s restoration, the project includes a community engagement initiative. The Inverness Castle Experience plans to launch a competition for local primary schools to name Flora MacDonald’s canine companion, which will guide young visitors through the castle, enriching their experience with stories from history.

The future of Inverness Castle

As the restoration of Flora MacDonald’s statue progresses, it symbolizes a broader effort to honor and preserve the history of Inverness. Jason Kelman, the principal project manager for the castle project, emphasized the statue’s importance, stating, “Any photographs taken of the castle always have Flora MacDonald in the foreground. So the statue is a vital part of the whole story of the castle and is of huge historical importance to Inverness.”

The revitalization of the castle, along with the restoration of this significant statue, is set to enhance the cultural landscape of Inverness, attracting visitors and educating future generations about the region’s storied past.