EXARC is absolutely thrilled, delighted and very proud to announce that long time EXARC member Dr Nick Dixon, Research Director of The Scottish Crannog Centre and Honorary President of The Scottish Trust for Underwater Archaeology has been awarded an OBE for services to underwater archaeology, public engagement and the economy of Scotland! Huge congratulations to Nick! Barrie must be equally proud!
A special reception was held on Friday, 16th June at the Scottish Crannog Centre to officially commemorate their 20th year of captivating visitors with living history and experimental archaeology. Created and led by the husband and wife team of Dr Nick Dixon and Ms Barrie Andrian of the Scottish Trust for Underwater Archaeology, the Centre began with building an authentic recreation of an early Iron Age loch-dwelling based on the team’s underwater research which first opened in the summer of 1997.
During the last 20 years the Centre has become an award-winning, internationally acclaimed heritage attraction featuring life on the loch 2,500 years ago and has welcomed some half a million visitors to the iconic, authentic roundhouse over the water near Kenmore! It is an especially appropriate time to celebrate as this is also the Year of History, Heritage and Archaeology across Scotland.
At the reception, Ms Hyslop, Cabinet Secretary for Culture & Tourism gave the keynote address and said: “Millions of visitors come from all over the world to view and experience Scotland’s history and heritage. The evidence is clear that at every level of the tourism industry in Scotland, these are major assets for us. In 2017, the spotlight is shining on Scotland’s wealth of fascinating and inspiring history, heritage and archaeology. The Scottish Crannog Centre, celebrating its 20th birthday, offers hands on experiences to help us understand what life was like for our ancestors. This is a place which looks forward, inspiring while it informs.”
Following the celebrations that evening and Dr Dixon’s receiving of an OBE, he declared: “I am honoured and delighted by this award. It is great to know that the work we have been doing for decades is valued in the community and in the country. I share the pride for this award with all of our friends and supporters who have helped us along the way.”
