Local, social and architectural history brought to life
28th March 2026
2026 Season starts now!
After a huge amount of procrastinating I've finally got myself up and running via EventBrite for commercial bookings.
First walks for this season are under my belt now - with some updated content and I'm adding more dates as I go along.
Booking is available via my EventBrite profile: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/o/setinstone-aberdeen-71771668313
17th April 2026
Shoemakers Induction
Chuffed to bits to be immersing myself further into Aberdeen history. I'm now able to support the 7 Incorporated Trades of Aberdeen from the inside - an organisation that has been woven (sorry!) into the development and progression of the city for more than 800 years.
I've been flagging their importance on my SetInStone Aberdeen walks for a few years now and delighted to be able to support further, having completed my essay piece earlier this week.
1st July 2026
Apprentice to Freeman
Once again, yesterday I found myself dipping into a century's old tradition when I was admitted a Burgess of Trade for the city of Aberdeen.
In the olden days that would entail being presented to the town council as a fine upstanding citizen, a master craftsman and contributor to the running of the town - marking the transition from being an apprentice to freeman of the town. Swearing an oath, they would present five shillings to the Lord Provost, which would be added to the Common Good Fund - championed by Robert The Bruce in the early 14th century - and would then be free to trade within the city. I now fully join the ranks of the Shoemakers, first incorporated in 1484.
A proud day and one I was delighted to share with mywife, and was ably supported by my Deacon Barney Crockett and Deacon Convenor Ian MacIntosh.
