The second in a series of talks presented by Annan the History Town on the people, history and culture of Annandale, was a resounding success.
Over 40 people were welcomed to Annan Old Parish Church, where they attended the talk by Researcher and Committee Member, Margery Wilkins on the remarkable life of Lieutenant-General Alexander Dirom of Mount Annan. The Church was pivotal in both life and death for the Dirom family, with tangible reminders all around, including a poignant memorial to Christina Dirom, Lt-Gen Dirom’s daughter, who died in Calcutta, connecting those present to their local history.
Kathleen Cronie, who is organising these events on behalf of the ATHT, tells us more:
“Margery’s talk was superb, a fascinating insight into the life of a man whose legacy can still be seen and felt all around us. There was something particularly moving about the fact his funeral took place within the very church where the talk was given, a place he was intrinsically linked with.”
Another interesting discovery was made on the night itself by eagle-eyed Committee Member, Peter Russell.
Kathleen explained:
“It was great to see people chatting about the church, its features and furniture; Peter spotted the words ‘Mount Annan’ marked on two of the pews, which created a lot of interest. While it later transpired that these pews were installed after the General’s time, and that of his immediate family, it was a great talking point that encouraged guests to be observant and curious, and highlighted another link between Mount Annan and the Old Parish Church”
Both the General and his wife Magdalen Pasley, were hugely influential in Annan and locality; their foresight, dedication and generosity improving the lives of many. From building schools and churches to improving agriculture and bringing new industries like quarrying into the area, this innovative family were held in great respect.
Giving a sense of Lt.Gen Dirom’s character, Margery said:
“Dirom had a distinguished military career and was an MP. He spoke Persian, wrote many works, even poetry, was a Fellow of the Royal Societies in London and Edinburgh, and was painted by Raeburn. The Diroms must have been the greatest benefactors in our local history. I feel we should remember them with gratitude as they did so much to improve the livelihoods of local people.”
Summing up and giving us a preview of what’s to come, Kathleen said:
“It’s fantastic to see such an enthusiastic response to the talks programme – many thanks to Margery, who was a wonderfully, engaging speaker, and to everyone who came along – it was clear to see our guests were enthralled. We also extend our warmest thanks to the Reverend David Whiteman, who kindly helped to organise the event, providing equipment, introducing Margery and making us all feel very welcome. We’re already looking forward to the next in the series. On Tuesday 13th December, Bill Jack will present an intriguing insight into the St Kentigern’s Way. I’m delighted to be joining him to explore some of the skilfully crafted headstones, folk art and epitaphs linked to St Kentigern’s Churchyard. We aim of encourage more visitors to make a pilgrimage on the Way or to explore individual sites. We’ll be sharing more details soon and can’t wait to welcome our next guests.”
