Old Gala House facts for kids
Old Gala House is a special building in Galashiels, a town in the Scottish Borders. Today, it's a fun museum where you can learn about history. It's also a conference centre, a place where people hold meetings and events.
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A Home Through the Ages
Old Gala House started as a strong building called a tower house way back in 1457. It was built by the Hoppringill (also known as Pringle) family. They were given the land of Gala by a powerful person called the Earl of Douglas.
Growing Bigger and Better
Over many years, the house grew much larger. In 1583, a man named Andrew Hoppringill made lots of improvements and added more rooms. He wanted it to be a comfortable home for his family. More parts were added in 1611.
Later, in 1635, Andrew moved back to another family home called Smailholm Tower. This happened when his daughter, Jean, married Hugh Scott. A cool ceiling painting was found in 1952 that celebrates their marriage! Hugh Scott, who became the new owner (or laird), also made the house even better and bigger. More additions were made in the 1600s and 1700s. These changes made the house look just like it does today.
What the House Looks Like
Old Gala House has a unique U-shape. It's built from rubblestone, which means it's made from rough, natural stones. Beautiful gardens with water features surround the house on three sides.
From Home to Museum
For many centuries, Old Gala House was a family home. But in 1872, a later owner, Hugh Scott, decided to build a brand new house. He hired a famous Scottish architect named David Bryce to design it.
A New Chapter for Old Gala House
Once the new house was finished, the family moved out of Old Gala House. The new house, called New Gala House, was later taken down in 1985. Around that same time, the Scottish Borders Council fixed up Old Gala House. They turned it into the amazing place we see today.
Now, Old Gala House is more than just a museum. It's a busy place that hosts many different events. Students from the local university even have their graduation ceremonies there! It's also a popular spot for meetings and even weddings. If you're interested in your family's past, the house also keeps important records from the Borders Family History Society.
