Aberdeen’s annual commemoration of Scottish hero William Wallace will take place on Saturday, August 16.
Kicking off proceedings at this year’s free event will be a welcome from Chaotica’s Celtic at 12.15pm, followed by a performance by Kintore Pipe Band at 12.30pm. The Very Rev Dr A.E. Nimmo will then bid an official welcome to the gathered crowds, followed by a series of readings – including the annual Wallace address from Dr Margaret Bennett and the announcement of the 1320 Declaration of Arbroath.
Towards the end of the event, a dedication will be made by Rev Stephen Taylor of the Mither Kirk of St Nicholas, before the Kintore Pipe Band complete proceedings at 1.30pm with Beating Retreat.
The annual commemoration is run by Wallace 700, an Aberdeen-based, non-political charitable body which aims to advance the education of the public about the life, memory and values of William Wallace and his relevance to the heritage, culture and history of Scotland.
Every year, the organisation marks Wallace’s martyrdom and promotes his relevance in today’s world regarding freedom, dignity and concern for others. The association has a Board of Trustees drawn from across the political spectrum, the arts, academia and the Kirk.
As ever, the event will be held at the William Wallace statue, which was erected in 1888 after John Steill, of Edinburgh – whose parent originally hailed from south of Aberdeen – bequeathed funds for it to be built. The City of Edinburgh turned down the statue and it was in turn offered to Aberdeen.
The Granite City’s Fathers initially suggested that it be located in the Duthie Park, however trustees for John Steill felt that a more prominent location within the city centre would be more appropriate. The site at the junction of Schoolhill and Rosemount Viaduct was agreed and the magnificent bronze figure has dominated this part of Aberdeen ever since.
Photographic records show that ceremonies at the statue have taken place since 1890, though this year’s ceremony will be the 13th organised by Wallace 700 association.
The William Wallace commemoration ceremony will be held at the William Wallace statue, Rosemount Viaduct, Aberdeen, on Saturday, August 16, from 12.15pm. The event is free for all to attend. For further information visit www.wallace700.org