Grampian Transport Museum 40th Anniversary Cavalcade – 23 July
This was a key event in the Museum's history as it marked the 40th Anniversary of the Grampian Transport Museum.
To quote from the Museum’:
From Vision to Reality: The Grampian Transport Museum Story!
In 1979, James Gordon's passion for preservation soared to new heights with the restoration of the Alford Valley Railway. Saving a 2’ gauge diesel loco and track from the former Cruden Bay Tile Works, the railway stretched 2½ miles from the old Alford station platform to Houghton House Country Park.
Meanwhile, committee member and architect, Mike Rasmussen, envisioned a permanent museum. Presenting a fully cost-effective proposal, the museum's future began to take shape. The Grampian Transport Museum found temporary residence in two industrial units, thanks to a lease agreement with the Gordon Regional Council.
In May 1981, the temporary museum wowed visitors with its vintage vehicles, transport memorabilia, and fascinating exhibits. Run entirely by dedicated volunteers at the time, this truly showed the power of community spirit!
The success of the temporary museum caught the attention of the Regional Development Fund, securing funding that supported the construction of a permanent home.
And the support did not stop there - a generous donation brought "Saccharine," a 1914 Fowler 2’ gauge steam loco, all the way from South Africa to the Alford Valley Railway.
With the annual Cavalcade continuing to captivate crowds and Doug Murray's team of volunteers welcoming visitors and school parties, education became an integral part of the Grampian Transport Museum's mission.
Finally, in February 1983, the dream became a reality! Welcoming Mike Ward as the new permanent curator of the time, the doors swung open to the public, and the permanent Grampian Transport Museum was born.
Join us as we celebrate this incredible journey from humble beginnings.
We hope to see you all this Sunday, 23 July for our 40th celebration at GTM and enjoy our beloved Cavalcade. There will be cars from 1920s to present, motorcycles, large vehicles, a beer garden, live music, Young Engineers demonstration, live music and a great atmosphere - we only need YOU!
Celebrating 40 Years of History and Community at Grampian Transport Museum!
On Sunday, 23rd July, we marked a momentous occasion as we commemorated 40 years of the GTM's heritage in Alford, Aberdeenshire.
This incredible journey began thanks to James Gordon, whose unwavering dedication earned him a well-deserved MBE "For services to the community of Alford."
Our local enthusiasts of transport have not only shaped the museum into what it is today but also played a pivotal role in transforming the community during challenging times.
To all those who have been part of this incredible journey, we extend our heartfelt gratitude. And thank you for being part of this big event!
Despite the rain paying us regular visits this season, it couldn't dampen our spirits! We had an array of exciting experiences lined up, including delectable foods from local producers, a lively beer garden, and an array of music performances by Keith Brass Band, The Sun Day, and the talented family band Sir-Reel Clarks!
Our young engineers showcased their racing prowess, while vehicle parades spanning from the 1920s to the present showcased the history of transportation. From motorcycles to large vehicles and steamers, it was a sight to behold!
We had a thrilling and fun race between our old ambulance and the Land Rover Defender, 75th-anniversary edition. This year's "Best in Show" title was claimed by James Gray, who proudly displayed his magnificent 1930s Crossley Blue. Congratulations, James!
But hold on, the celebrations are not over yet! We'll be continuing our 40th-anniversary festivities throughout the season, so keep an eye out for our upcoming events. We'd love to see all of you there, as we relish our shared passion for history and community."
A number of Club members attended and although there was the odd passing shower, it was a pleasant enough day and good to see such a wide variety of cars on display.
It was slightly disappointing that there didn’t seem to be too many spectators; thinking back to Cavalcades and SpeedFests in the past the visitor numbers were very low this year. People may have been put off by the weather, but well done to GTM for celebrating the significant milestone of the 40th Anniversary and here’s hoping the events programme continues to grow.
