Organised by The Castle Menzies SCIOAn appeal to raise funds to replace the delapidated carved stone armorial at Castle Menzies. Cost estimated at £100,000. All donations greatly appreciated. (Please consider donating more than the £35 suggested by this site's payment process.)
On approaching the Castle Menzies, the most iconic sight to behold is the magnificent carved stone armorial above the entrance to the castle.
This armorial was placed to commemorate the union of Sir Neil Menzies and his wife Grace Conyers Norton in 1816 and, for two centuries, it has stood resplendent above the main entrance to the castle.
Sadly, age and Scottish winters have taken their toll.
Last year, weather damage was identified on the stonework and due to a risk of falling stone, it was decided to remove the armorial. Accredited conservation stonemasons were appointed by the trustees to do this with a view to restoration and replacement. However, once inspected, significant damage was identified, and a decision was taken by the trustees to replace the armorial with new stonework replicating the original piece.
The replication process requires the stonemasons to infill the damage with clay and then scan the entire armorial by laser. The scan will then be used on matching stone to give an accurate representation of what the armorial would have looked like when first erected.
It is intended to return the original armorial stone to reside on display inside the castle, alongside a commemorative board which will provide information on its history and restoration for future generations to enjoy.
As you can imagine, conservation and replacing the armorial comes at a significant cost, estimated at £100,000. For this to be accomplished, we need your help.
We are appealing to all Menzies Clan Society members and indeed all who love Scottish history to help with this major project which, in terms of challenge, is probably the most substantial since the castle was rescued as a ruin in 1957.
All donations will be greatly appreciated.
Please consider donating more than the £35 suggested by the JustGiving payment process.
**Donors who contribute £500 / US$620 or more will be personally recognised on the commemorative donors' board mentioned above, which will sit alongside the relic armorial inside the castle.**
Please feel free to consider donating monthly (e.g. over 12 months), rather than in a one-off amount, if that would be preferable. There is a monthly payment option.
Please give generously!
With thanks,
The Trustees, Castle Menzies & The Clan Council, Menzies Clan Society
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