Scottish Cup Gallery officially launches

On Thursday 21st March the Scottish Football Museum welcomed valued stakeholders and guests to the official launch of the new Scottish Cup Gallery, funded by Museums Galleries Scotland.

Mark this very special day in footballing history, 150 years since the first Scottish Cup Final in 1874, guests from across the football heritage family enjoyed access to the new permanent Gallery and to the jewel in the crown of the Museum's collection. 

Robert Craig, Chair of the Scottish Football Museum conducted proceedings, sharing thanks to funding and support partners who helped to make the Gallery happen, as well as the Museum's pride in being part of the historic celebrations of football that have connected so many passionate groups across recent milestones. 

Lucy Casot, CEO of Museum Galleries Scotland and Andy Milne of Heritage Lottery Fund spoke warmly of the passion and creativity behind the new Gallery and their support for the project which has been longstanding. 

Julie McNeill, poet Makar to the Hampden Collection read an original work penned to mark the important day.

The new documentary style video produced to celebrate the Scottish Cup was on display for guests to enjoy. Created in partnership with SNS Group, the video showcases Scottish Cup memories recounted by legends of the game, football fans and the Museum staff who look after the trophy.

An interactive display allows young and old alike to test their knowledge of the Cup and try their hand at a fun quiz, designed in partnership with the children of a local secondary school for young people with additional support needs, Hollybrook Academy. 

Designed to maximise inclusivity and accessibility for all audiences, the Gallery has been designed and built with Studio Arc, who have extensive experience in delivering award-winning displays and spaces.

Part of the wider 150th anniversary of Scottish football celebrations, the official opening of the Gallery coincided with other milestone moments that day. The Hampden Collection hosted guests, including the Scottish Cup, earlier in the day at Hampden Bowling Club, the site of first Hampden and the home of Queen's Park F.C.