Digging up the remarkable untold local stories of the First World War

East Dunbartonshire’s War project will explore the lives of men, women and children living in the area during the First World War and their individual experiences.

The project has delved into the EDLC Archives and Local Studies collections and with a team of experts and volunteers will aim to retell individual stories of community members living in East Dunbartonshire during this devastating conflict.

A number of free community events, suitable for all ages, will take place across East Dunbartonshire so that people can learn more and experience what life in the area was like during the First World War.

There has already been a successful events in Bishopbriggs and Bearsden that will supplement bigger events in Kirkintilloch (November 21) and one in Milngavie next February.

The project is also researching the significance of war memorials in East Dunbartonshire and their effect on individuals. In addition, it will explore the impact on the lives of those returning from the Front.

As well as the community events, the project team will also help develop First World War education resources for secondary schools in addition to new activities for primary schools for use in the classroom and on visits to EDLC Archives and Local Studies.

Scott Hill, chair of EDLC Trust, said: “This exciting project will help our community to learn about this tragic period in history in a new and innovative way.

“One of the aims of the project is to discover untold stories of heroism, sacrifice and duty from the First World War and our team would love to hear residents’ stories from this time.”

Councillor Alan Moir, convener of development and regeneration, added: “This project is just part of a number of activities planned by East Dunbartonshire Council and EDLC Trust to mark the centenary commemorations of the First World War.

“I would encourage all our residents to get involved with the project and attend one of the community events which will be full of fascinating stories of men and women from East Dunbartonshire who were involved in the First World War at home and on the battlefront.”

The East Dunbartonshire’s War project is supported by the Scottish Government Public Library Improvement Fund and East DunbartonshireCouncil.

Amina Shah, chief executive officer of Scottish Library and Information Council, said: “SLIC are delighted to fund this project to commemorate the First World War. Library services across Scotland have been working closely with their communities to make sure the stories and memories from the war are preserved for this generation and for the future.

“East Dunbartonshire’s project is making important links between the library collections, schools and communities.”

The East Dunbartonshire’s War project has opportunities for research and event volunteers.

For more information on how you can get involved email [email protected].