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- Botanic Gardens | EDEN project | The Dundee Tapestry
The University of Dundee Botanic Garden is an important centre for research and education, and many rare species of flora and fauna are safeguarded here. This panel showcases highlights from the Garden, and it also acknowledges the potential impact of the Eden Project in Dundee, and its initial focus on rewilding with wildflower meadows. DUNDEE NATURE Up Up Botanic Gardens and the Eden Project Tackling environmental challenges through botanical research The University of Dundee Botanic Garden is an important centre for research and education, and many rare species of flora and fauna are safeguarded here. This panel showcases highlights from the Garden, and it also acknowledges the potential impact of the Eden Project in Dundee, and its initial focus on rewilding with wildflower meadows. 1. Seasonal highlights The Botanic Garden’s display of plants and trees changes with every season. 2. The living laboratory Climate change, population growth and the unsustainable use of natural resources all present serious challenges to global biodiversity. With important plant collections from across the world, Dundee’s Botanic Garden undertakes research and education to help mitigate these challenges. 3. Soil secrets What happens below ground, as plants grow, is an important aspect of botanical research. 4. Garden of Evolution The Garden of Evolution is a recent addition to the Botanic Garden and is surrounded by decorative drystone dykes (walls). The garden represents the evolution of plants from primitive lichens and mosses to colourful flowering plants which now provide food for birds and insects. 5. ‘The Bridge’ sculpture Created by Canadian artist Ron Martin, this sculpture was originally installed in Hunter Street in the 1980s, where the University of Dundee’s Dalhousie Building is now located. This sculpture represents the bridge from a cello or a double bass. 6. Pond life Several ponds here create freshwater eco-systems that reflect different environments across Scotland. 7. Wildflower meadows In 2022, community groups and schools helped to sow wildflower meadows across the city, in partnership with Eden Project Dundee. 8. Plants, people and places The Botanic Garden is a busy place, with an education centre, an art gallery, a café, and greenhouses. In 2011, the University of Dundee’s Architecture, Physics and Engineering departments also introduced a zero-energy, self-sufficient studio – the first entirely renewable‐powered ‘off‐grid’ building to be constructed in the UK. The Botanic Garden even has its own elephant: a wooden sculpture called Nellie, created by Graham Hogg. 9. The Good Grief Memorial Garden This garden opened in 2023 to honour victims of the Covid 19 pandemic – the first memorial garden of its kind in Scotland. The idea for the garden came from Lorena Weepers during her final year at Dundee University, and the design was developed with local landscape architect Keith Lando Vernon, and Scottish glass artist, Cass Peters who created the season-themed fused glass obelisks. Up Up This panel was stitched by Jean Davidson Christine Don Ervin Mackie Lynne Potts
- Creative Dundee | The Dundee Tapestry
This panel reflects how Dundee’s creative credentials are evolving. The city is traditionally associated with comics and greetings cards, but the 2018 opening of V&A Dundee, Scotland’s first design museum, elevated Dundee’s art and design heritage. The city is a hub for video game design, and the Arts continue to thrive in multiple forms. Up Up Creative Dundee A new generation of creators This panel reflects how Dundee’s creative credentials are evolving. The city is traditionally associated with comics and greetings cards, but the 2018 opening of V&A Dundee, Scotland’s first design museum, elevated Dundee’s art and design heritage. The city is a hub for video game design, and the Arts continue to thrive in multiple forms. 1. A creative hub Art is created and shared across the city in a diverse array of locations, including Dundee Contemporary Arts (DCA), The McManus, Double Door Studios, Chainworks Studios, Roseangle Gallery and Wasps at Meadow Mill, involving art collectives such as Generator Projects and Amps Networks, and community practitioners like Scrapantics. 2. Joseph Lee Born in Dundee, Joseph Lee (1876-1949) was a notable poet, journalist and author, and a talented artist who illustrated his own books. When war broke out in 1914, he recorded life on the battlefield while serving with the 4th Black Watch. ‘Ballads of Battle’, Lee’s first book of war poetry, was published in 1916, followed by ‘Work-a-Day Warriors’ in 1917. The University of Dundee holds an archive of his work. 3. Grand Theft Auto This driving-action video game was developed in Dundee by gaming company, DMA Design. 4. Dundee Repertory Theatre Built in 1982, the Dundee Rep (also home of Scottish Dance Theatre) was granted Category ‘A’-list status in 2022. The theatre was designed by local architects, Nicoll Russell Studios, and it continues to present a diverse array of contemporary performances. Many Scottish actors – including Brian Cox, Alan Cumming, David Tennant and Ncuti Gatwa – have taken to the stage here. 5. Anvil & hammer These tools represent the creativity of blacksmiths who worked in the Dundee area. Some started out as rivet boys, making rivets for the construction of the Tay Railway Bridge. Later, as blacksmiths, they were involved in the Dundee housing boom and supported stonemasons in developing and maintaining tools. They also created and provided the ironmongery that was popular in Victorian housing, and supported the farming community beyond Dundee. 6. James Bowman Lindsay Born in Arbroath in 1799, James worked as a linen worker in Dundee before gaining a place at the University of St Andrews. He returned to Dundee in 1829 as Science and Mathematics Lecturer at the Watt Institution and, in 1835, he demonstrated constant electric light – 40 years before Thomas Edison invented the lightbulb. 7. Moira Macgregor Moira Macgregor (1931-2016) was a Dundee-born artist, illustrator and print-maker whose modern drawing style made her popular with on-trend fashion brands and magazines (like ‘Honey’, ‘Nova’ and ‘Glamour’) from the 1960s to the 1980s – including Barbara Hulanicki’s super-hip fashion label, Biba. Later, Moira worked in advertising, book publishing and packaging, and she exhibited paintings and prints at the Royal Academy and the Royal Watercolour Society. 8. Alhambra Theatre Now known as the Whitehall Theatre, the Alhambra was established in the 1890s by local impresario, John Young, and from 1929, it showed both films and live productions. Brian Cox, Michael Marra and Will Fyffe all performed there. 9. Duncan of Jordanstone College of Art The creative heart of University of Dundee, DJCAD is consistently ranked in the top UK colleges for art and design. Successful alumni include illustrator Johanna Basford, sculptor David Mach and musician Gary Clark. 10. Valentine & Sons Established in 1851, Valentine’s became a highly successful manufacturer of postcards, greetings cards, calendars and children’s books. The factory in Westfield Avenue closed in 1994, and has since been demolished. 11. Graffiti in Mary Anne Lane The legal graffiti wall in Mary Ann Lane, one of several eyecatching graffiti artworks in Dundee. 12. Scott Sutherland Scott Sutherland (1910-1984) is best known for his Commando Memorial sculpture, unveiled at Spean Bridge, Invernessshire in 1952. He was Head of Sculpture at DJCAD from 1947-1975, and other notable examples of his work include a carved coat of arms on the National Library of Scotland; the Robert Burns statue in Arbroath; and the carved slate memorial panel to the crew of the Broughty Ferry lifeboat, ‘Mona’. 13. Music notes These are the first musical notes of Michael Marra’s song, ‘Frida Kahlo’s Visit to the Taybridge Bar’. 14. Jeff Hawke Jeff Hawke was a comic strip character created by Dundee-born artist Sydney Jordan. Hawke’s sci-fi adventures appeared in the ‘Daily Express’ from 1954 to 1975. Up Up This panel was stitched by Liz Gillespie Anne Murphy Anna Stark
- Dundee Industry | The Dundee Tapestry
In the 19th century, the development of linen mills, whaling and ship-building, followed by jute, jam and journalism – the famous ‘three Js’ – enabled Dundee and its busy port to flourish. By hosting oil rigs, wind turbines and cruise ships today, the River Tay and the port of Dundee are still key to the city’s economy, but console games technology and life sciences have taken over from more traditional manufacturing sectors. This panel honours Dundee’s diverse array of key industries. Up Up Dundee Industry Remembering Dundee’s industries, past and present In the 19th century, the development of linen mills, whaling and ship-building, followed by jute, jam and journalism – the famous ‘three Js’ – enabled Dundee and its busy port to flourish. By hosting oil rigs, wind turbines and cruise ships today, the River Tay and the port of Dundee are still key to the city’s economy, but console games technology and life sciences have taken over from more traditional manufacturing sectors. This panel honours Dundee’s diverse array of key industries, past and present. 1. Production of Levi’s jeans Dundee’s Levi’s jeans factory opened on Dunsinane Industrial Estate, off the Kingsway, in 1972 and closed in 2002. 2. Weaving loom By the mid 1800s, Dundee’s mills were weaving Baltic flax into a coarse cloth called Osnaburg Linen. The finished fabric was used for sailcloth and wagon covers, and some of it was also made into clothing for enslaved people. As the cost of flax increased, many of the city’s mills switched from weaving linen to jute, as Dundee’s jute industry took off. 3. Gaming Abertay University was the first in the world to introduce computer games degrees, and over 40 gaming companies have now set up in the city. Popular video games created here include Lemmings and Grand Theft Auto, both created by DMA Design (now known as Rockstar North). 4. Oil rigs The port of Dundee has become an important hub for oil rig decommissioning, refits and repairs. 5. Ship-building Many small shipyards once operated on the banks of the River Tay. The three largest were Caledon Shipbuilding & Engineering Co Ltd (otherwise known as W B Thompson & Co Ltd), Gourlay Brothers & Co (Dundee) Ltd, and Alexander Stephen & Sons Ltd. 6. Furniture-making Dovetail Enterprises (1993) Ltd is an amalgamation of two long-established Dundee charities: Royal Dundee Blindcraft Products (Blindcraft) and Lord Roberts Workshop (LRW). Dovetail continues to offer employment and training for those disadvantaged in the workplace due to disability, and the company now creates high quality beds, furniture, doors and door-sets. 7. NCR Makers of cash registers and ATMs, NCR had a large factory near Camperdown Park, from 1947 to 2009. 8. Whisky bonds Dundee had several ‘whisky bonds’ (a type of secure warehouse) with the most famous being Robertson’s Bond on Seagate. 9. Keiller’s Marmalade In the 1760s, Mrs Janet Keiller turned locally-grown, seasonal soft fruits and sugar-beet into jam. She also modified a quince recipe to create ‘chip’ (shredded peel) marmalade, using imported oranges. Janet’s son took over the business in 1775 and, by 1869, James Keiller and Sons was the largest confectionary business in Britain. 10. Whaling The use of whale oil and water to soften jute fibres for processing meant the whaling industry lasted longer in Dundee than in most other British ports. Whalebone was also an important commodity, and was used in the same way we might use plastic today. 11. Wind turbines Wind turbines for the forthcoming Inch Cape wind farm – one of Scotland’s largest offshore renewable energy projects – are currently being assembled at the port of Dundee. 12. Journalism David Couper Thomson took over his family’s publishing business in 1884, and the company officially became known as DC Thomson from 1905. ‘The Courier’ and ‘Evening Telegraph’ are still widely read, along with titles like ‘The Scots Magazine’ and ‘The Sunday Post’ and children’s comics, ‘Beano’ and ‘The Dandy’. 13. Michelin The Michelin factory in Dundee created millions of car tyres from 1971 to 2020, and in 2006 it was the first UK factory to install wind turbines. The site has since become Michelin Scotland Innovation Parc, hosting entrepreneurs and manufacturers who are focusing on diversity and climate change. 14. Valentines of Dundee Valentine and Sons Ltd was founded in 1851 by James Valentine, a Royal-appointed photographer, and by the early 1900s, the company was synonymous with colourful picture postcards, greetings cards and Christmas cards. Hallmark took over the business in 1970, and the factory closed in 1994. 15. Timex The Timex watch factories in Milton and Camperdown were built after World War II and by the mid-Sixties, Timex was Dundee’s single largest employer – particularly among women. The Camperdown factory closed in August 1993, ending 47 years of production. 16. Keiller’s Dundee Cake As well as making marmalade, Janet Keiller came up with iconic Dundee Cake – an all-butter sultana cake, believed to be adapted from a 16th century recipe . Up Up This panel was stitched by Jean Davidson Christine Don Ervin Mackie Lynne Potts
- Journalism | The Dundee Tapestry
This panel acknowledges the important role of journalism within the Dundee community, and how newspapers, magazines, radio – and now social media – continue to inform a local audience on all aspects of daily life. You’ll see real headlines with a local significance, including both funny stories and serious events. DUNDEE EDUCATION Up Up Journalism The people and places behind the headlines This panel acknowledges the important role of journalism within the Dundee community, and how newspapers, magazines, radio – and now social media – continue to inform a local audience on all aspects of daily life. You’ll see real headlines with a local significance, including both funny stories and serious events. 1. Jim Crumley “Five eagles dead and dumped. And where’s the outrage?” So wrote Jim Crumley, a journalist and nature writer who grew up in Dundee. His work included regular columns for ‘The Courier’ and ‘The Scots Magazine’, along with more than 40 books on Scotland’s wildlife and landscapes. This particular story – about five eagles found dead in the Western Isles – expressed his dismay and outrage at this unsolved wildlife crime. 2. The RNLI Lifeboat ‘Mona’ This story tells the tragic loss of local RNLI lifeboat, ‘Mona’, on 8 December 1959. The North Carr lightship had broken adrift and, when attending the emergency, ‘Mona’ capsized and her crew of eight lost their lives. ‘Mona’ was washed ashore on the east side of Buddon Ness later that day. 3. Brian Taylor Born in Dundee in 1955, Brian Taylor studied at the University of St Andrews before becoming a journalist. He is a former political editor for BBC Scotland, writes columns for ‘The Herald’, and is the author of several books about the Scottish Parliament. 4. Frank Gilfeather This Dundee-born journalist and broadcaster was also a former Scottish amateur boxing champion. His broadcasting career began in 1980 with the launch of the regional news programme, ‘North Tonight’. 5. Marie Imandt & Bessie Maxwell Journalists Bessie Maxwell and Marie Imandt worked for D.C. Thomson. In 1894, they were sent on a year-long, fact-finding mission to investigate the lives of women around the world, and ordered to send back regular reports to the ‘The Courier’ newspaper about their trip. The women visited 10 countries in all, and you can still find a book called ‘Dundee’s Two Intrepid Ladies: A Trip Around the World’ which combines quotes, illustrations and descriptions of their adventures. 6. ‘The Scots Magazine’, 1739 – Present On 16 April 1746, when the final battle of the 1745 Jacobite Rising took place on Culloden Moor, news of the defeat was slow to reach the waiting public. First-hand letters and accounts of the battle were printed in the April 1746 edition of ‘The Scots Magazine’ and for many Scots waiting at home, this was the only way to find out the fate of their loved ones. 7. ‘The Courier’ & ‘Sunday Post’ Launched in September 1816, ‘The Courier’ has served the Dundee community for more than 200 years. And although the paper now has multiple regional editions – covering Angus & The Mearns, Perth & Kinross, and Fife – it has always been printed in its home city. Its stable-mate, the ‘Sunday Post’, was founded in 1914 and is home to cartoon icons ‘Oor Wullie’ and ‘The Broons’. 8. Eddie Mair Journalist and broadcaster Eddie Mair was born in Dundee and worked at Radio Tay before joining the BBC in 1987. Career highlights included ‘Reporting Scotland’ and ‘Good Morning Scotland’, followed by ‘ PM’ and ‘Any Questions?’ on Radio 4. Eddie also presented the drivetime show on LBC until he retired in 2022. 9. Dick Donnelly Dick Donnelly (1941-2016) was a football broadcaster, commentator and journalist who had also enjoyed success as a goalkeeper for East Fife, Brechin City and Arbroath. His father was blind so young Dick became adept at describing the action on the pitch, and as an adult, his voice became familiar to football fans across Scotland. 10. Tay FM Radio Tay arrived on the airwaves on 17 October 1980, via the TV transmitter site at the southern end of the Tay Road Bridge. A month later, it also broadcast to Perth. Today, the station is owned and operated by Bauer, and forms part of the Hits Radio network. Up Up This panel was stitched by Lindsey Grieve
- Doon the Toon | The Dundee Tapestry
Before the creation of retail parks on the outskirts of the city, the centre of Dundee was the place to be. Everything happened ‘doon the toon’. Going for your messages, visiting the bank, paying bills, getting your hair done, meeting friends for a pint or a coffee, going to the pictures, choosing your ‘pick and mix’ or favourite records at Woolworths, visiting the library, or just having a look, the city centre offered it all. DUNDEE CULTURE Up Up Doon the Toon NEW FOR 2025 Remembering Dundee city centre at its best Before the creation of retail parks on the outskirts of the city, the centre of Dundee was the place to be. Everything happened ‘doon the toon’. Going for your messages, visiting the bank, paying bills, getting your hair done, meeting friends for a pint or a coffee, going to the pictures, choosing your ‘pick and mix’ or favourite records at Woolworths, visiting the library, or just having a look, the city centre offered it all. It was an excuse to get dressed up and enjoy the sights, sounds and smells of a prosperous community. As you walked around, you’d see the Steeple churches, the unicorn on the Merket cross, the Caird Hall in the city square, the trams traversing the city, the newspaper salesmen and buskers, and the aroma from the many food stalls and coffee shops. Most of these places and experiences are now part of Dundee’s history but some popular landmarks – pubs, museums and shopping centres; even the old tramlines in the Murraygate – are still there in some shape or form. This nostalgic panel celebrates the highlights of a typical trip ‘doon the toon’, and names the shopping streets and long-gone retailers that Dundonians knew and loved. 1. G. L. Wilson’s department store At the centre of this panel is G. L. Wilson’s department store building, a destination for shoppers in the first half of the 20th century. It was founded in 1894 by Gavin Laurie Wilson, the son of a Lanarkshire farmer, on a corner site at Murraygate and Commercial Street. Visiting G. L. Wilson’s was an experience of sophistication and glamour: customers were treated like royalty, their purchases neatly wrapped up in brown paper and string. And while this was happening, the money to pay for the goods was placed in a container, sucked up a tube and conveyed to the cashiers’ office where the change and the receipt was returned, in the same way, back to the service desk. The department store closed in December 1971, and following refurbishment, the building now hosts contemporary retail units. 2. The Naughty Monkey You’ll find this bronze sculpture by Angela Hunter in front of the entrance to the Keiller Centre on the High Street. Perched on an information board, the naughty monkey has rearranged the letters of ‘INFORMATION’ to now say ‘IN MA FAIR TOON’. Hunter’s inspiration came from the ancient Lady Mary Fair, once held annually in Dundee, which featured an organ grinder with a small monkey. The final Fair was held in 1933. 3. Public baths The idea of having public wash-houses for Dundee’s working people was first suggested at a public meeting in 1844, and they were eventually built on a piece of land near the old Earl Grey Dock donated by the Harbour trustees. The original Docks Bath House opened in July 1848 and in its first year of operation, 14,601 baths were taken. In 1873, Dundee’s new Victorian swimming baths were opened, with changing boxes around the sides, diving stages, springboards and bath stairs. On the opening day, the water temperature was 10.5-14°C – a big difference to modern pools which are around 28°C. The original baths were replaced by an upgraded pool in 1876, then reconstructed again in 1909-1910. What was by then known as the Central Baths were demolished in 1975, after the original Olympia leisure centre opened in 1974, with its wave machine, rapid river, flumes and café – for that all-important ‘shivery bite’. This, in turn, was replaced in 2013 with a new Olympia leisure centre in the Seagate. 4. Going to the pub Back in the mid-19th century, Dundee is believed to have had one pub for every 144 people and even as recently as 2015, the city was reported to have 115 individually registered pubs – 2.5 per cent of all Dundee businesses, and more pubs per head of population than any other Scottish city. Dundee’s oldest bar is The Pillars on Crichton Street which opened in 1864, but many others have survived for decades with very little change. 5. Post office The former Dundee General Post Office was located at the intersection of Meadowside and Constitution Road, and the impressive Renaissance-style building was designed by Walter Wood Robertson between 1895 and 1898. 6. Florists & greengrocers Dundee’s proximity to the fertile farmland of Angus and Perthshire meant access to seasonal fruit and vegetables. In the early 1800s, fresh produce was traded at the weekly Green Market in the High Street which later moved to the square at the bottom of Crichton Street in 1827. When that square was demolished in 1914, the market was held on Dock Street, at the back of the Caird Hall, until 1934. In the second half of the 20th century, popular shops for flowers and fruit included Dryden’s in Victoria Road, Castle Street and Union Street, and Betty White’s in Reform Street. 7. Lost & found Dotted around the city centre is a series of street art by Jeremy Cunningham, entitled ‘Lost & Found’ and completed in 2020. A number of these can be found near the city churches, and along the Nethergate, High Street and Murraygate – each one is accompanied by a letter of the alphabet. 8. The Pillars Clock Located on the building above the jewellers, Robertson & Watt, the clock depicts the old town house – the Pillars building – which served the people of the city from 1734 to 1932. 9. Music shops For musical instruments, sheet music, records, tapes and CDs, Dundonians would head to I&N Records, Chalmers & Joy, Watts in the Wellgate, Largs in Whitehall Street, and Groucho’s. Top 20 hit records could also be found in Woolworths and upstairs in Boots. 10. Mortar & pestle In 1850, there were 11 chemists practising in Dundee and, by 1900, that number had soared to 34. Notable 19th century pharmacies in the city centre were Davidson & Gray on the Nethergate, and Morgan Tower Pharmacy on Perth Road which was opened by A. Y. Barrie in 1874. Boots opened its first shop in Dundee in 1914 and still trades from what was formerly known as Strathtay House, on the corner of Reform Street. 11. Jewellers As befits a wealthy city, in the 19th and 20th centuries, Dundee had its fair share of jewellers. H Samuel moved into Reform Street, opposite Boots, in 1909, where it vied for custom with Henderson’s, established in 1938, and Robertson & Watt which started life on the High Street in 1841. The clock hanging outside H Samuel was a popular meeting place for friends and lovers, known locally as ‘Duffer’s Corner’. 12. The Playhouse At one time, Dundee had more cinemas and seats per head than anywhere else in the UK. One of these was the Playhouse Cinema, owned by the Green family who envisaged a chain of these throughout the country. John Fairweather was the architect, and his design featured an 85-foot high illuminated tower above the entrance, a grand foyer and a tearoom which served also as a ballroom. It could seat 4,100 people – many more seats than the Caird Hall – and its cosy ‘chummy seats’ were popular with courting couples. The first films to be shown there in 1936 were ‘We’re In The Money’ and ‘Lady Tubbs’. The Playhouse later became the Mecca Bingo hall and may soon turn into a live music venue. 13. Wall sign for shoppers One of four charming signs which can be found on the wall of the former D. M. Brown department store, established in the High Street in 1888. D. M. Brown was acquired in 1952 by the House of Fraser Group and the store name was changed to Arnotts in 1972. During the Covid pandemic, the building served as a Covid Vaccination Centre. 14. Bulletin board This bulletin board says ‘Stitchers Meet For Yarn’ – a tongue-in-check reference to The Dundee Tapestry project. Whether it be to meet ‘doon the toon’ for a blether or to collect coloured yarn for stitching the 38 panels, this project has brought many like-minded folk together and formed new and lasting friendships. 15. Snapshot moments In the days before digital photography and camera phones, Dundee’s photo studios and developing shops did a roaring trade. Special moments were captured and developed by Jessops, Boots, Marlowe and I&N Photos, while the Tempest school photography team toured the city’s schools. 16. Pawnbroker’s sign Three golden balls are the sign of a pawnbroker's shop, and Dundee had a few of its own: there was Dickson’s on the corner of Temple Lane, in West Port, and Mrs Elizabeth O'Ferrall on Tay Street. Today, you can still see a traditional pawnbroker’s sign hanging outside H&T, on the corner of Seagate. 17. Fashion shops Going ‘doon the toon’ as a teenager meant staying ahead of the latest fashion trends – from high street chain stores and fancy department stores to cut-price clothing markets. Indeed, the opening of Honey boutique in Cairds department store, which catered exclusively for young people, was a real innovation at the time. 18. Bakers Dundee’s famous for its pies and bridies which means it’s also a city with many bakeries – the most well-known being Goodfellow & Steven, Fisher & Donaldson, Clark’s, Wallace’s, Crawford’s, Bayne’s and Greggs. 19. The Wellgate Clock This popular clock was installed in the Wellgate Centre in 1978, and was constructed by Suffolk clockmakers Haward Horological Ltd. When its bells ring out on each quarter of the hour, the characters on each side become animated and doors open to reveal the nursery rhyme characters behind them. Many Dundee folk have fond memories of watching and listening to this spectacle, especially at noon when every door opens in turn. 20. Furniture stores Ask any Dundonian where they used to buy their furniture and the names Justice and Robertson are sure to be mentioned. Dundee-born Thomas Justice opened his first shop in Tally Street in 1872, and later established showrooms on Whitehall Street with a workshop behind. Meanwhile, John L. Robertson started buying and selling second-hand furniture in 1880 before moving into a smart, four-storey Art Deco-style building in Barrack Street, where the business continued until 2011. Less well-known were the East Brothers who had a quality chair-making business in the early 19th century. The factory started off in Albert Street, in the city centre, but moved to Lochee in 1899. 21. Time for tea (and coffee) Many of Dundee’s smartest shops had their own tearooms and coffee shops – including Draffens, G. L. Wilson’s and D. M. Brown – where waitresses dressed in black and white uniforms served up with a polite smile. For those preferring something more exotic than tea or coffee, Greenhills in the Overgate sold tasty Sarsaparillas. Today, J. B. Braithwaite Ltd still supplies customers with quality coffee to brew at home as it has done from the Castle Street shop since 1932. 22. Street musicians Scotland has a proud tradition of street-busking and Dundee is no different. One of the most recognisable buskers is Eric Gudmunsen, whose favourite spot outside Boots is depicted in this section. Among the songs he plays and sings is one of his own, written about the ‘Folk of Dundee’. 23. The City Square and Caird Hall The Caird Hall was formally opened in 1923 by H.R.H. The Prince of Wales (later King Edward VIII), and is named after Sir James Caird, a local industrialist. He and his sister, Mrs Emma Grace Marryat, both donated funds to help complete the new City Square scheme in the 1930s. 24. Lilies & knots The white lilies at the top of this panel echo the vase of lilies that appears on Dundee’s coat of arms. The city’s emblem also features two dragons with their tails entwined in green Celtic knots – as stitched at the bottom of this panel. Up Up This panel was stitched by Christine Don Ervin Mackie Lynne Potts
- Factory Life | The Dundee Tapestry
After the Second World War, Dundee evolved into a manufacturing hotspot. An excellent rail network, a busy port and a plentiful supply of employees with good engineering skills were the main attractions, and international companies like NCR, Timex, Levi and Veeder Root built large factories on the outskirts of the city. When newly built, these modern factories provided thousands of local residents – particularly, women – with well-paid jobs, training and safer working conditions. DUNDEE INDUSTRY Up Up Factory Life NEW FOR 2025 Recalling the highs and lows of life ‘on the line’ After the Second World War, Dundee evolved into a manufacturing hotspot. An excellent rail network, a busy port and a plentiful supply of employees with good engineering skills were the main attractions, and international companies like NCR, Timex, Levi and Veeder Root built large factories on the outskirts of the city. When newly built, these modern factories provided thousands of local residents – particularly, women – with well-paid jobs, training and safer working conditions than the jute mills and shipyards. This panel recalls daily routines on the production line, and celebrates the up and downs of 20th century factory life. 1. Factory uniforms The modern factory uniforms and overalls were very different to those worn in the jute mills and shipyards. At Timex, for example, different coloured uniforms represented different departments, and the garments were made of a smooth nylon fabric to prevent dirt or hair being transferred to the delicate inner workings of the watches being made. 2. Mealtimes at work Most factories in Dundee had a staff canteen, serving basic, but nourishing, Scottish fare. Mass-produced food had its limitations, though, and the menu was often affectionately compared to school dinners: vegetables could be soggy, meat could be greasy and overdone, and the eggs were often rubbery. Lunch was usually only 30 minutes, so employees had to be quick to get to the canteen, eat and get back to the production line again. 3. Working ‘on the line’ Perks such as canteens, welfare departments, sports clubs, holiday pay, and a decent wage meant Dundonians queued for jobs in the new factories. Factory workers had ‘totals’ (or targets) to reach and people helped each other reach the required target. But while working on the line could be laborious and repetitive, it’s also where relationships and lifelong friendships were born. Popular topics of conversation on the line covered who was going with who; who had fallen out; what someone was wearing ‘doon the toon’ on a Saturday; and who’d been seen at the dancing… anything that relieved the boredom of standing or sitting in the same spot for hours at a time. Many factory workers also took part in community-focused activities, with money being raised to support fellow workers on strike, local pensioners, or donated to charity. 4. A skilled workforce NCR and Timex both opened their Dundee factories in 1947, followed by Levi Strauss (jeans) and Michelin (tyres) in 1972; other notable factories included Valentines, Smedley, Carhartt and Veeder Root. The specialised equipment and busy production lines required a skilled workforce, and they found that among Dundee’s former jute workers, engineers and shipbuilders. 5. Side hustles A career ‘on the line’ could be very sociable and when Dundee’s factories closed in the latter half of the 20th century, former employees missed the camaraderie as much as the wages. There were even opportunities to make some money on the side by selling goods or giving haircuts in the toilets. Neatly packed, pre-ordered butcher’s meat, kids clothing and knitted garments could all be shopped for on a visit to the loo. 6. Children’s festive parties Christmas parties for the children of factory workers were an annual treat, with a willing employee decked out in a Santa outfit and a neatly-wrapped present for every child. 7. Clocking in and clocking out Just as they had done in the jute factories and shipyards, Dundee’s modern factory workers would ‘clock in’ and ‘clock out’ to enable each factory to accurately track and calculate their employees’ working hours. In some factories, if you were late by five minutes or more, you were ‘quartered’ and you lost 15 minutes’ pay. It was rounded up to the next 15 minutes so, if you were 17 minutes late, you would lose half an hour’s pay. 8. Training and apprenticeships Following an apprenticeship, many people in Dundee were employed at the same factory for their whole working lives. It wasn’t unusual for generations of the same family to work beside each other so it was a huge loss when a factory closed its doors. It’s estimated that more than half a million people stopped working in factories and workshops across Scotland between 1951 and 2021, including Dundee. 9. Traditions in the factory A few days before their wedding, brides-to-be were given a memorable send-off. They were dressed up in a veil, given a baby’s potty to hold, and wheeled around the factory in a wheelbarrow to receive everyone’s good wishes. Sometimes money would be thrown into the wheelbarrow by other factory workers, and the whole event was accompanied by singing and loud cheers. Up Up This panel was stitched by Sandra Allstaff Cath Gardiner
- Sponsors & Credits | The Dundee Tapestry
Thanks to our sponsors and production team. THE DUNDEE TAPESTRY Up Up Sponsors & Production credits With thanks to our sponsors Weaver Incorporation of Dundee Nine Incorporated Trades of Dundee Don & Low Ltd Northwood Charitable Trust Rotary Club of Dundee Scott Fyffe Wealth Management The Guildry of Dundee Walter Craig Charitable Trust William S. Phillips Fund Supported by Duncan of Jordanstone College of Art & Design Community Learning & Development, Dundee City Council Dundee and Angus College Project & Design team Andrew Crummy MBE Dr Frances Stevenson John Fyffe MBE Lyndsey Currie Project support Caitlin Fyffe Rhoda Miller Ellen Piggot Judy Robertson Alister Rutherford Aileen Scoular Design support Claire Adh olla Janice Aitken Martha Glazzard Alan Greig Jude Hughes Matthew Jarron Gary Kennedy Judy Scott Photography Malcolm Finnie Website design The Malting House
- Muggie Sha | The Dundee Tapestry
Many of singer Michael Marra’s songs portrayed real or fictional characters, and he often sang about local pubs where people socialised – one of these songs was called ‘Muggie Sha’. This panel reflects the hard life of working women like Margaret Shaw (Muggie Sha’ in Dundee dialect), and acknowledges the role that Dundee’s pubs have always played in bringing local people together. DUNDEE CULTURE Up Up Muggie Sha’ Turning real life experiences into song Many of singer Michael Marra’s songs portrayed real or fictional characters, and he often sang about local pubs where people socialised – one of these songs was called ‘Muggie Sha’. This panel reflects the hard life of working women like Margaret Shaw (Muggie Sha’ in Dundee dialect), and acknowledges the role that Dundee’s pubs have always played in bringing local people together. 1. Muggie Sha’ Michael Marra’s song was the story of a fictional character, but Muggie was inspired by real women. In Edwardian times, many women in Dundee were the main breadwinner and they had the means, and the confidence, to socialise in the city’s bars. Some of the more disorderly women appeared on a blacklist of barred individuals or ‘known inebriates’ that were circulated by Dundee police at that time. Later, the posters were compiled in a book which Michael saw, and he used them as the starting point for his song. Although down on their luck, troubled, and banned from the city’s pubs, Michael felt these women deserved sympathy and recognition. 2. Book of Inebriates The ‘Known Inebriates’ book was published in 1905, and it included the names of people who had been convicted three times in a 12-month period, under the Inebriates Act of 1898. Those pictured in the book could be fined up to 40 shillings if they tried to buy alcohol again, and landlords could be fined up to £20 for serving them. Some of the women are shown on this panel in order to acknowledge the hard lives that they led and celebrate them as the ‘breadwinners’ in their day. 3. Lyrics from ‘Muggie Sha’ This is the chorus from Michael Marra’s song: “But eh’m no as bad as Muggie Sha She hiz tae drink at the tap of the La’ Barred from Bissells, me ana But eh’m no as bad as Muggie Sha” 4. Local bars Around the edges of the panel are some of the pubs in Dundee that participated in the ban: Bissells (The Polepark Bar) – Polepark Road The Old Toll Bar – Lochee The Phoenix – Nethergate The Pillars – Crichton Street Mennies (The Speedwell Bar) – Perth Road Fisherman’s Tavern – Broughty Ferry Taybridge Bar – Perth Road Ladywell Tavern – Victoria Road 5. Beers produced at the time With the current craft beer revival, it’s interesting to look back at what was being brewed in the Dundee area and served up in bars the early 1900s. They included: Ballingall’s Dundee Strong Ale George Willsher & Co. Bitter Table Beer Robb’s Bitter Beer WH Brown Imperial Stout Up Up This panel was stitched by Jane McCool Margaret Purvis Sheila Watson
- Cinemas and Dancehalls | The Dundee Tapestry
The city’s first-ever ’moving picture show’ was unveiled by cinema pioneer Peter Feathers in Castle Street in 1896 and, at one point, Dundee had 75 cinemas. The city was big on bars and nightclubs, too. Bob and Betty Barty ran the Star Ballroom in Lochee for many years, and taught disco and ballroom to generations of dance-loving Dundonians. Meanwhile, Northern Soul fans would take to the floor at Marryat Hall and The Nine Maidens, or catch the bus to the legendary Wigan Casino. DUNDEE CULTURE Up Up Cinemas and Dancehalls Places to dance and dream Favourite entertainment venues are honoured on this panel. The city’s first-ever ’moving picture show’ was unveiled by cinema pioneer Peter Feathers in Castle Street in 1896 and, at one point, Dundee had 75 cinemas. The city was big on bars and nightclubs, too. Bob and Betty Barty ran the Star Ballroom in Lochee for many years, and taught disco and ballroom to generations of dance-loving Dundonians. Meanwhile, Northern Soul fans would take to the floor at Marryat Hall and The Nine Maidens, or catch the bus from Lindsay Street to the legendary Wigan Casino. Here, we celebrate current and long-gone venues that are still loved and remembered by the people of Dundee. Up Up This panel was stitched by Meg Bartram Susan Falconer Louise Laing Valeen Lyons Ann Ross Susan Scott Sheena Sigsworth
- The Nine Trades | The Dundee Tapestry
The Nine Incorporated Trades of Dundee was formed in the 16th century, creating an alliance among the city’s most prolific trades. This panel reflects the organisation’s roots and its commitment to fundraising for worthy local causes. We also celebrate the Nine Trades’ ongoing support for the advancement of the arts, heritage, culture and science; citizenship and community development; education; religion; and health. DUNDEE INDUSTRY Up Up The Nine Trades Forging alliances between Dundee’s ancient trades The Nine Incorporated Trades of Dundee was formed in the 16th century, creating an alliance among the city’s most prolific trades. There is a traditional hierarchy in place which orders the Nine Trades as follows: Bakers, Cordiners, Glovers, Tailors, Bonnetmakers, Fleshers, Hammermen, Weavers and Dyers. This panel reflects the organisation’s roots and its commitment to fundraising for worthy local causes. We also celebrate the Nine Trades’ ongoing support for the advancement of the arts, heritage, culture and science; citizenship and community development; education; religion; and health. 1. Weavers With origins going back to 1512, the Weaver Craft is a community organisation with more than 80 current members. Originally, the Weavers regulated the linen and jute trades in Dundee: it controlled who had the right to weave and sell cloth within the burgh, maintained quality standards, and provided apprenticeships in the textile industries. Modern community funding projects include an inter-generational project that links schools with care homes; the Weavers Prize, an annual award for textile students at Duncan of Jordanstone College of Art & Design (DJCAD); digitising the Trades’ Lockit books; and the Dundee Tapestry. 2. Bakers This trade was once known as ‘Baxters’ and its current Lockit Book was opened in 1554, although earlier records from 136 4 also mention the purchase of bread from Dundee bakers for the Royal household. Today, the Bakers Trade continues to care for the sick and poor, and is particularly focused on training and apprenticeships. 3. Cordiners (shoemakers) Once known in Scotland as ‘Soutars’, the shoemakers and cobblers in 17th century Dundee were busy people. As trade dwindled in the 19th century, leather belting for machinery took over but that eventually died out, too. Currently the Cordiners are involved with the Weavers in digitising the Trades’ Lockit books, in partnership with Dundee University, and their members also repair leather-bound historical books. Today’s members are committed to carrying out charity work, particularly for educational purposes. 4. Glovers (glovemakers) A tannery for use by glovemakers (or ‘skinners’ as they were once known), to prepare the leather for their craft, was constructed beside the Wallace Burn in 1522, not far from St Roques Chapel. This trade continues its charitable work today as an ‘open’ Craft. 5. Hammermen (metal-workers) This was an important and wealthy trade, with royal connections – a pair of pistols made in Dundee for King Louis XIII of France sold for £54,000 at an auction in 2001. At one point, this Craft encompassed Goldsmiths and Silversmiths, along with Bucklemakers, Blacksmiths, Watchmakers, Cutlers, Gunsmiths and Engineers. 6. Tailors In the mid-1900s, Reform Street was the ‘Saville Row’ of Dundee, with more than a dozen tailors working there, and by the 1950s, there were over 40. Today, the Tailors Craft continues to support those working in the clothing industry and it funds a bursary and a textiles student prize at both Dundee & Angus College and DJCAD. 7. Dyers The Dyers formally became part of the Nine Trades in 1693 and, historically, the Craft played an important role alongside Dundee’s textile industries. Today, the Dyers’ funding commitments include an award at DJCAD; a design competition called Creative Spaces for secondary school children; and Tayside Dynamos Powerchair Football Club, a popular disability team sport. 8. Bonnetmakers Traditionally, Dundee bonnets (also known as ‘toories’ or ‘tammies’) were black when worn by the middle classes, or blue for the working classes; some were also made in russet. By becoming an ‘open’ Craft, the Bonnetmakers adapted to survive and members now include healthcare practitioners, solicitors, accountants and other business-owners. The Bonnetmakers was also one of the first Trades to admit women. 9. Fleshers (butchers) Representing the butchers of Dundee, many families with long ties to the Fleshers Craft still run award-winning butchery businesses in the city. Members of the Fleshers Trade take turns to supply the meat for the Nine Trades’ annual Bridie Supper. 10. Creative arts The Nine Trades is a committed supporter of art and culture in Dundee. Its support includes awards to students at DJCAD, and funding for creative bodies such as V&A Dundee, the Dundee Repertory Theatre, Dundee Heritage Trust, Dundee Youth Music Theatre, and many other projects in local schools and colleges. 11. The Howff & The Conveners Stone Meetings of the Nine Trades’ Convenors Court were traditionally held every November to decide who qualified for financial support from each Trade. Originally, the Deacons, Boxmasters and Clerks of the Nine Trades met at The Convenors Stone in The Howff, an ancient graveyard. 12. Donations Although the nine individual Trades are not charities, the board of trustees has charitable status to enable grants, donations and loans to be given to those in need. This includes pensions for those that worked in each Trade; funding for universities, schools and colleges in Dundee; and financial support for the young, vulnerable and disadvantaged. 13. Deacon Convener Each of the Nine Trades has a Deacon, and the Deacon Convener is the presiding officer of this group and the general fund charity. A new Deacon Convener is named every two years. 14. Education support This includes financial awards for local students in various design-led disciplines, as well as Degree Show prizes awarded to students at DJCAD and Dundee & Angus College on behalf of the Weavers, Tailors and Dyers Crafts. Other activities include funding for the Dundee University Summer School; High School of Dundee bursaries; and support in secondary and tertiary education for disadvantaged pupils. 15. Lockit Book Each Trade has a Lockit Book which is looked after by the Clerk or Boxmaster. These books go back many hundreds of years and, inside, they contain a record of membership of each Craft and details of its accounts. Currently, the Nine Trades’ Lockit Books are undergoing a programme of digitisation and will be available online in years to come. 16. Scientific research Examples of recent funding from the Nine Trades for scientific research includes grants and projects in local schools and colleges, and through its commitment to digitising the Lockit Books. 17. Bridie Supper Traditionally, after the annual business of the Convenors Court had been discussed, each November meeting would be adjourned to a local ale house for food and drink. This practice continues today and is now known as the annual Bridie Supper. Up Up This panel was stitched by Margaret Craig Fiona Mackenzie Helen Nairn Alison Scott Susannah Silver Linda Spencer Jackie Tunstall-Pedoe
- Gangs, jumpers and Northern Soul | The Dundee Tapestry
In Dundee, there have always been different ways to belong. In the 1970s, belonging to a gang meant wearing brightly-coloured gang jumpers – like the designs shown here. Later, those gangs put aside their differences and came together through the transformative power of Northern Soul music – some popular records are named here. Today, ethnic communities provide a sense of belonging by bringing the spirit of their cultures to the city, while the Dundee’s LGBTQIA+ community is stronger than ever. DUNDEE COMMUNITIES Up Up Gangs, jumpers and Northern Soul A sense of belonging In Dundee, there have always been different ways to belong, as this panel reveals. In the 1970s, belonging to a gang meant wearing brightly-coloured gang jumpers – like the designs shown here. Later, those gangs put aside their differences and came together through the transformative power of Northern Soul music – some popular records are named here. Today, ethnic communities provide a sense of belonging by bringing the spirit of their cultures to the city, while the Dundee’s LGBTQIA+ community is stronger than ever. 1. Gang jumpers In the 1970s, territory was everything and lads from different parts of Dundee – particularly its social housing estates – wore distinctive V-necked jerseys in specific ‘gang’ colours. Most of the jerseys were made at the Knitting & Sewing Centre in Victoria Road, but some were also knitted at home by willing mums and grannies. Customisation included sleeve pockets, cardigan versions, initials on the pockets, and ‘reverse’ colour combos – similar to a football team’s strips for ‘home’ and ‘away’. 2. Northern Soul The song titles stitched on this panel were Northern Soul favourites in the late 1970s and early 1980s. As Dundee’s local gangs put aside their differences to come together on the dancefloor, popular Northern Soul venues included Marryat Hall, Angus Hotel, Queen’s Hotel, Jumpin’ Jacks at the Tay Centre, and St Salvador’s Church Hall. The city still has a lively Northern Soul scene. 3. Rainbow knitting The first Dundee Pride event took place in 2018, and the city has an active and welcoming LGBTQIA+ community which celebrates gender diversity, and promotes equality, awareness and inclusion within Dundee and the surrounding area. The following textile-themed motifs represent people from a variety of nations who have made Dundee their home: 4. Ukraine This design is inspired by the embroidery on vintage ‘rushnyk’ cloths. These are traditionally used for ceremonial events in Ukraine. 5. Africa This motif is influenced by Adinkra symbols, such as the ‘kokuromotie’ symbol which represents harmony, co-operation, and teamwork. 6. China This design is based on the Lucky Clouds pattern which appeared on Beijing’s Olympic torch in 2008. It is stitched in red because that is a lucky colour in Chinese culture. 7. Poland This floral motif is based on Polish paper cut designs, a traditional form of folk art called ‘wycinanki’. 8. Italy This simple zig-zag design is inspired by ‘bargello’ – a type of needlepoint embroidery named after a palace in Florence. It is stitched in green – one of the colours on Italy’s national flag. 9. Other communities Dundee has also welcomed people from other cultures and countries across the globe, including Latvia, Syria and the Jewish community. 10. India / Pakistan Originating from Kashmir (now a disputed territory), the paisley motif traditionally featured on woven, and sometimes embroidered, shawls. 11. Ireland This motif is based on the trinity knot, a Celtic symbol of love. It has been stitched in white to echo the traditional colour scheme of Ireland’s Mountmellick Embroidery. Up Up This panel was stitched by Mairi Fraser Sheila G Gorrie Nicola Montague Judith Robertson
- Making The Dundee Tapestry | The Dundee Tapestry
Producing The Dundee Tapestry has been an evolutionary process over a five-year period. After coming up with the idea in 2019, John Fyffe MBE organised an initial steering group which included Dr. Frances Stevenson, Alister Rutherford and Rhoda Miller, to plan how the project could be managed and delivered. The primary focus was always about engaging with the people of Dundee – in terms of volunteer stitchers and stories about the city. THE DUNDEE TAPESTRY Up Up Making The Dundee Tapestry Producing The Dundee Tapestry has been an evolutionary process over a five-year period. After coming up with the idea in 2019, John Fyffe MBE (Nine Incorporated Trades) organised an initial steering group which included Dr. Frances Stevenson (Textile Designer, DJCAD), Alister Rutherford (Embroiderer’s Guild) and Rhoda Miller (Local Historian), to plan how the project could be managed and delivered. The primary focus was always about engaging with the people of Dundee – in terms of volunteer stitchers, stories about the city and designing the content and illustrations. The steering group expanded as the project grew. Andrew Crummy MBE (Artist), the late Eddie Small (Writer and Historian), Lyndsey Currie (Textile Designer), Caitlyn Fyffe (Marketing and PR), Judy Robertson (Social Media) and Aileen Scoular (Website Copywriter and stitcher) all joined the team to provide various areas of expertise. Themes & Timeline Eight main themes were highlighted as a starting point to reflect key areas pertinent to Dundee: Communities Nature Industry Women Education Culture International Creative Each theme comprises a group of panels, building a picture of that topic through sub-themes and different perspectives. Currently, The Dundee Tapestry has 35 panels. But, importantly, the themed approach was adopted to allow The Dundee Tapestry to grow and expand because other themes, panels and extended timescales can be added in the future. A definitive timeline from the mid-19th Century to the present day provides the parameters within which The Dundee Tapestry is set. Owing to the amount of information involved, this was a necessary constraint due to funding. Designing the panels The Dundee Tapestry’s circular structure was selected by the design team to reflect the growth spiral structures of the eminent 19th century biologist Sir D’Arcy Wentworth Thompson who taught at the University of Dundee. The panel’s structural layouts were designed by Andrew Crummy to reflect Thompson’s work, using eight different templates, with variations of circles and spirals. The circular design also reflects and incorporates The Dundee Tapestry logo. Andrew invited Frances Stevenson to join him in designing some of the final panels. Researching content Pencil sketches onto fabric provided a ‘skeleton’ structure to enable the stitchers to begin, and to allow more content to be added to each panel as further research was carried out. Researching the content was an important, ongoing process which was carried out by stitchers themselves, alongside steering group members. Illustrations to reflect the research were added throughout the making of each panel. Finishing the panels Once stitched, The Dundee Tapestry panels were stretched by the Textile Design staff team at DJCAD, and backed by stitchers Margaret Craig, Sheila Mathieson and Sarah Houstoun. Writing content The Dundee Tapestry website provides content highlights and a concise synopsis for each panel. The text for this website was written by Aileen Scoular, and researched and proof-read by Judy Robertson and Rhoda Miller. Community involvement A key aim of The Dundee Tapestry was to include the community, both as volunteer stitchers and as people who could provide stories about the city. Workshops were organised at key stages to invite members of the public and community organisations to add a stich to the panels, and share their memories of growing up in the city. Communication Public talks were given by members of the steering group, while many stitchers were ‘out and about’ across their own communities to encourage people to add a stitch. Communication regarding all the activities has been recorded and shared through social media by Judy Robertson. Iona French (Graphic Designer) provided the logo – which was designed on the theme of ‘connections’ and people ‘getting together’ around a table – and Wendy Maltman from The Malting House created the website. Finally… The aim of The Dundee Tapestry was to visually narrate stories about the city of Dundee through textiles and stitch. The rich tapestry panels that have been made by over 140 stitchers are full of information and colour, and they reflect the many new friendships that have been forged throughout the making of the Tapestry, and the skills that have developed. We hope you enjoy looking at them. We have not included everything about Dundee in these 35 panels, and there are many more things we could have included. That’s for the future…! Up Up

