Two rare sporting trophies were brought together for the first time in an exhibition in Blairgowrie.
The Really Interesting Experience was a display of artefacts from the local area over the past 100 years, and took place at the weekend.
Among the items on show on Saturday were the Rattray Silver Arrow and the Rattray Silver Ball, trophies dating back more than 400 years.
Along with a silver curling stone, they make up a collection of three sporting trophies which were reputedly gifted to the Parish of Rattray by King James VI. Organisers of the exhibition are also attempting to trace the whereabouts of the curling stone.
In 2012 the silver arrow was at the centre of a dispute over its true ownership.
Currently owned by Lord Robert Mercer-Nairne, of Meikleour Estate, it was once the centrepiece of Rattray’s famous grand tournament. The arrow was last won by Jacobite John Nairne in 1717 and has been passed down through his family.
In 2006, Lord Robert sparked fury when he attempted to auction the item crafted by Perth silversmith Thomas Ramsay in 1612 for up to £60,000. The public outcry that ensued prevented the high-profile Sotheby’s sale.
The silver ball dates to approximately 1600 and is believed to have been made by Thomas Ramsay. It was awarded for a village hand ball games, similar to one still played in Jedburgh.
Graham Reid, of Blairgowrie Town Hall Association, which is hosting the exhibition, said there will be a number of other interesting items on display.
“Possibly the main attraction was part of the meteorite that crashed near Blairgowrie in 1917,” he said.
“There was also a display of local wildlife, the collection of Laing photos, an excavation pit for children, Roman armour, a handling table, the robes of the Provost of Blairgowrie and Rattray, hints on searching for family history, retro costumes, demonstrations of weaving and spinning, and artefacts from Ardblair Castle and other local sources.
“Also we had Bonnie Prince Charlie’s call to arms letter to Clan Rattray, a late 16th century Shiavona sword, a Clan Rattray family history book, and a 19th century diary.”
Mr Reid added that the organisers hope the event will result in a more permanent exhibition space in Blairgowrie.
