Rare Jacobite-era pistols to be reunited for first time in decades in exhibition

Two rare Jacobite era pistols representing a “tumultuous” period of Scottish history are to be reunited for the first time in more than 30 years in a new exhibition.

Dating to the late 17th century, the weapons are rare surviving examples of work by the gunmaker and goldsmith William Lyndsay the Elder of Montrose in Angus.

Experts said they are likely to have belonged to a wealthy and influential local family at a time when the town was renowned as a Jacobite stronghold.

It is believed they were taken to France following the failed Jacobite uprising of 1715 and remained there for more than 200 years.

The pistols came to light in France in 1993, when they came up for sale and were acquired separately by National Museums Scotland (NMS) and Montrose Museum.

They are now being reunited for the first time in more than 30 years in Tartan & Turmoil: The Angus Jacobite Story where the pistol on loan from NMS will be displayed alongside its pair.

Ella Paul, curator, Renaissance and Early Modern History at NMS, said: “These finely crafted pistols are extremely rare and I’m delighted we have the opportunity to reunite them.

“They represent a tumultuous period of Scottish history and the experiences of the Jacobite families forced into exile across Europe.

“We’re grateful for the support of Postcode Lottery players which allows National Museums Scotland to share the National Collection with audiences across the country, bringing these remarkable moments in Scotland’s past to life in a tangible and inspiring way.”

The steel heart butt pistols are richly decorated with intricate floral engravings and silver mounts, and are stamped with Lyndsay’s mark.

The exhibition, Tartan & Turmoil, will explore the pivotal role Angus played in Jacobite efforts to restore the Stuart dynasty to the throne, with the port of Montrose once described as “the most disloyal and disaffected town in Scotland”.

The pistols will go on show alongside items such as treasures once owned by Stuart kings, intimate letters and everyday objects that illustrate stories of the Jacobite rebellion throughout Angus.

Emma Gilliland, Museums & Galleries Collections Lead at ANGUSalive, which runs the Montrose Museum, said: “We’re really excited to bring Angus’s Jacobite story to life for visitors.

“Everyone has heard about the Jacobites and Bonnie Prince Charlie, but the vital role that Angus played in the risings is little known.

“Some Jacobite objects from our collection are being exhibited for the very first time, and we will also be showcasing significant objects on loan from leading national institutions.

“We’re incredibly grateful to National Museums Scotland for their support with this – reuniting our Jacobite pistol with its pair is a really special part of the exhibition.”

Tartan & Turmoil: The Angus Jacobite Story opens on July 17 and runs until November 23 this year.

The pistol is on loan to Montrose Museum from National Museums Scotland with the support of Postcode Lottery players.