Memoirs of Keithie Number Seventeen: A Captivating Exploration of Scottish History and Cultural Heritage

The "Memoirs of Keithie Number Seventeen" is an enchanting painting that portrays the resilient spirit of a Scottish community during tumultuous times. Created in 1976 by renowned artist John Lowrie Morrison, known affectionately as "Jolomo," the painting depicts a modest cottage in the coastal village of Keith, Banffshire, Scotland, adorned with seventeen evocative symbols that encapsulate the rich history and cultural heritage of the region.

Historical Significance

Keithie Number Seventeen is not merely a picturesque representation of a Scottish village; it is a visual tapestry that weaves together centuries of Scottish history. The painting's title alludes to the cottage's designation as number seventeen on Keith's valuation roll, a testament to the village's humble beginnings. However, the seventeen symbols adorning the cottage elevate the painting beyond a depiction of a simple abode.

Memoir of Keithie's Number Seventeen

by Stacey Williams

4.9 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	889 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	326 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

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1. The Jacobite Rose: A symbol of the Jacobite rebellion, this delicate flower represents the support for the Stuart dynasty during the 18th century. Keith's proximity to the Jacobite stronghold of Glenlivet made it a haven for supporters of the cause.

2. The British Ensign: A reminder of Keith's allegiance to the British Empire, this flag signifies the village's participation in the global conflicts of the time. Many young men from Keith served in the British military, including the Crimean War and World War I.

3. The Viking Longship: A nod to Keith's maritime heritage, the longship symbolizes the village's involvement in the fishing and whaling industries. The River Isla, which flows through Keith, provided access to the North Sea, making it a vital port for trade and commerce.

4. The Rotary Wheel: A tribute to the local fishing industry, the rotary wheel represents the technology that transformed the village's economy in the 19th century. The of rotary engines on fishing boats significantly increased their efficiency and yield.

5. The Anchor: A symbol of Keith's maritime connections, the anchor signifies the importance of the fishing industry to the village's livelihood. Keith was once a thriving fishing port, exporting its catch to markets throughout Britain and beyond.

6. The Aberdeen Coat of Arms: A reminder of Keith's proximity to the city of Aberdeen, the coat of arms represents the strong economic and cultural ties between the two communities. Aberdeen, Scotland's third-largest city, has been a major center of commerce and industry for centuries.

7. The Gargoyle: A whimsical touch, the gargoyle represents the architectural heritage of Keith's buildings. Many of the cottages and houses in Keith feature intricate stonework and carvings, reflecting the village's rich artistic traditions.

8. The Oil Rig: A symbol of Keith's recent industrial development, the oil rig signifies the arrival of the oil and gas industry in the North Sea. The discovery of oil off the coast of Scotland in the 1970s had a profound impact on Keith and the surrounding region.

9. The Scots Thistle: A symbol of Scotland itself, the thistle represents the nation's resilience and pride. Keithie Number Seventeen is a celebration of Scottish identity and culture, capturing the essence of a community deeply rooted in its history.

10. The Horseshoe: A traditional symbol of good luck, the horseshoe represents the hopes and aspirations of the people of Keith. The cottage's humble facade belies the resilience and determination of its inhabitants.

11. The Bagpipes: A quintessential symbol of Scottish culture, the bagpipes evoke the music and traditions of the Highlands. Keith has a long and proud tradition of piping, with many local pipers performing at events throughout the region.

12. The Salmon: A nod to Keith's natural environment, the salmon represents the River Isla and its abundance of wildlife. The river has been an important source of food and recreation for generations of Keith residents.

13. The Herring: A symbol of Keith's fishing heritage, the herring represents the importance of this once-thriving industry to the village's economy. The decline of the herring stocks in the North Sea had a devastating impact on Keith and other coastal communities.

14. The Scallop Shell: A symbol of pilgrimage and spirituality, the scallop shell represents the village's connection to the wider Christian world. Keith was once a stop on the pilgrimage route to St. Andrews Cathedral, Scotland's oldest university town.

15. The Dove: A symbol of peace and hope, the dove represents the resilience of the people of Keith in the face of adversity. The village has faced numerous challenges over the centuries, including economic downturns and natural disasters, but its spirit has never been broken.

16. The Lighthouse: A symbol of guidance and protection, the lighthouse represents Keith's role as a beacon of hope for generations of mariners. The village's location on the North Sea made it a vital navigational aid for ships passing along the coast.

17. The Rainbow: A symbol of hope and renewal, the rainbow represents the promise of a brighter future for Keith. Despite the challenges it has faced, the village remains a vibrant and thriving community, with a rich history and a bright future ahead.

Cultural Impact

Keithie Number Seventeen has become an iconic image in Scotland and beyond. Reproductions of the painting can be found in homes, businesses, and public spaces throughout the country. The painting has also been used as a symbol of Scottish national identity and pride.

The painting's popularity is due in no small part to its ability to capture the essence of a Scottish community. The seventeen symbols adorning the cottage represent the shared history, traditions, and values of the people of Keith. The painting is a reminder of the strength and resilience of the Scottish people, even in the face of adversity.

Keithie Number Seventeen has also had a significant impact on the cultural landscape of Keith itself. The painting has helped to raise awareness of the village's history and heritage, and has been a catalyst for local regeneration projects. The painting has also inspired the creation of a number of other works of art, including a series of sculptures by local artist Gordon Harvey.

The Story Behind the Painting

The story behind the creation of Keithie Number Seventeen is as fascinating as the painting itself. In 1976, John Lowrie Morrison was commissioned to create a painting that would celebrate the history and heritage of Keith. Morrison visited the village and spent several days sketching the local scenery and talking to the residents.

Morrison was particularly struck by the story of a local woman named Margaret Cameron. Cameron had lived in the cottage for over fifty years, and she shared her memories of the village with Morrison. Morrison was so inspired by Cameron's stories that he decided to make her the central figure in his painting.

Keithie Number Seventeen is a deeply personal painting for Morrison. It is a tribute to the people of Keith, and to the resilience of the Scottish spirit. The painting is a reminder that even the smallest of communities can have a rich and vibrant history, and that the stories of ordinary people are often the most inspiring.

The "Memoirs of Keithie Number Seventeen" is a captivating work of art that explores the rich history and cultural heritage of Scotland. The painting's seventeen evocative symbols encapsulate the resilience of the Scottish people, and its popularity is a testament to the power of art to capture the essence of a community. Keithie Number Seventeen is a must-see for anyone interested in Scottish history, culture, or art.

Memoir of Keithie's Number Seventeen

by Stacey Williams

4.9 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	889 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	326 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE