You're probably thinking, "Why 1879?"  Let me tell you....

It was a cold, stormy night on the 12th of November 1879. A Norwegian barque, the Emerald, was making it’s way from New York to Gothenburg but was driven onto the rocks by huge seas between Westray and Papa Westray. The crew survived but the ship was broken up and sold off.
A young couple in need of a house saw an opportunity. The largest deck cabin was purchased and taken to the croft of Bucklesberry which overlooks the Quoydyke, the place where the Emerald went aground. 

....How does the story continue? Well, probably the best thing to do is come and see for yourself, but until then I'll tell you a little more....

The very same cabin, is now nestled beneath the mezzanine studio in our gallery. What awaits when you walk through the door? A true step back in time. Here's a taster-

• Get a glimpse of island life in the late 19th-early 20th century as depicted in a highly detailed scale model crofting and fishing community entitled "Once upon an Island"
• Read Captain Ole Pedersen's own account of the voyage across the Atlantic and the conditions that led to the shipwreck.
• Find the answer to these questions and more. What was the Emerald's cargo on this occasion? It may surprise you! What far-flung places had been ports of call in previous years?
• The ship's steward gave a gift to one of the islanders. We have it on display.
• On certain days, if you listen carefully, you can still hear the crashing waves!

Please note - The display inside the cabin is still in progress, it is not yet ready for visitors. Check back for regular updates on progress.