The “heart of Kirriemuir” has finally retaken its rightful place in the centre of the Angus town.
More than 80 years on from its presentation to the community’s most famous son, the Freedom silver casket has returned as one of the burgh’s greatest treasures linked to playwright and author JM Barrie.
The casket was commissioned for the 1930 ceremony in honour of the Peter Pan creator and was secured for his home town after appearing at auction in Somerset last month.
Containing a burgess ticket awarded to Barrie at the event on Kirrie Hill, the small silver box had been in private hands for 75 years, but was knocked down to Angus Council for £7,200. The council put £1,000 towards the historic acquisition, with the remainder funded equally by the Art Fund and the National Fund for Acquisitions.
At the 1930 ceremony, then Provost Henry Peacock described the silver box as the “heart of Kirriemuir”.
Current Angus Council leader Iain Gaul said it was a privilege to see its return.
Children were also invited to attend Wednesday’s homecoming of the casket, made by silversmiths Brook and Son of George Street Edinburgh and hallmarked for 1929.
“It’s a magnificent artefact and we’re delighted we had the opportunity, and were able to bring it back to Kirrie where it belongs,” Kirrie councillor Mr Gaul said.
“It will be on display in the museum, hopefully permanently, and it fits in exceptionally well with all of the local history connected to Sir JM Barrie.”
He added: “We’re very grateful to the Art Fund and the National Fund for Acquisitions for their support, but also the offer from other people from within the community who were prepared to step in and make sure the casket returned home to Kirrie.”
The pictorial plaques on the casket represent Kirriemuir Townhouse where the Gateway to the Glens Museum is housed, Barrie’s home, the statue of Peter Pan which is a copy of the George Frampton piece commissioned by Barrie and secretly installed in Hyde Park, the pavilion on Kirrie Hill and a representation of the burgh coat of arms.