Wanlockhead is the highest village in Scotland located at 1531ft/467m above sea level. It owes its existance entirely to the mineral veins found there. Originally, prospectors would move into the valley in the summer months,

erecting tents as temporary forms of accommodation. Not until the late 17th century, did the first permanent settlement begin, including the arrival of wives and children. Men would find a flat area of ground and erect a stone house with a turf and heather roof.

Village Life

As the men worked in the mines, women would stay at home to cook, clean and look after the children. However, in the early 19th centuary, a small cottage industry developed, run by the women of the village. Women would make a delicate ornate form of embroidery which was known as Muslin Flowering or 'Flooring.'

Leisure Time

As the men worked such long hard hours, they also required a degree of leisure time. The men formed their own clubs and societies, including the Curling Club which was established in 1777; the Bowling Club; the Quoiting Club; the Silver Band; the Wanlockhead Players drama group and, most notably, the Library Society.

The Library houses the documents and records of these societies: a collection which is rich in detail and priceless. In addition, there is a fine display of medals, cups and prizes won by the various societies in the village over many years.

The Museum of Lead Mining

The Museum of Lead Mining is unique, being the only museum dedicated to lead mining in Scotland. The collection of exhibits concentrates on the lead industry of South West Scotland and on the families that lived and worked in Wanlockhead.

The Museum's humble beginnings were in the Miners Library and then progressed to a small cottage on Goldscaur Row. In the 1980's it was housed in the present building, which was the original Burnside Smithy.

Robert Burns frequently passed through Wanlockhead and on one occasion needed some urgent attention to his horse's shoes. The mining company's blacksmith was paid in verse.

The Meadowfoot Graveyard

The graveyard, which lies on the edge of the village dates from the early 18th century, and is well worth exploring. It is a tranquil spot and lies in the shadow of the spoil heap from the Glencrieff Mine.