A landmark building in Paisley’s West End could soon be transformed into a hub of Scottish heritage, if the vision of its current owner becomes reality.
Hope Vere Anderson — whose late father previously owned the building — has unveiled plans to turn the former Heritage building on Walker Street into a Scottish Tartans Museum and Heritage Skills Academy. Anderson, who also leads local heritage tours, hopes the project will celebrate Scotland’s cultural legacy while bringing traditional artisan skills back into the spotlight.
A Museum of Tartans
At the heart of the plans is a Scottish Tartans Museum featuring both permanent and rotating exhibitions. These would showcase the rich history of clan attire, highlighting tartan’s enduring role in Scottish identity.
Preserving Traditional Skills
Alongside the museum, the proposed Heritage Skills Academy would give a new generation the chance to learn crafts that have shaped Scotland for centuries. Planned workshops and demonstrations could include:
Bonnet making
Metalwork and engraving
Tartan design
Heraldry
Sword smithing
Stone carving
Historic bespoke tailoring
There’s even scope for local exhibitions — Paisley Photographs has already been invited to host a display of memorabilia, adding a distinctly local touch to the project.
A Building with a Story
The building itself is steeped in history. Originally built in 1907 as a Sunday School for John Neilson School, it was designed by renowned architect Thomas Graham Abercrombie. Over the years, it has had many uses, from housing the Paisley Rope and Twine Co., to being the base of MP Irene Adams, and later home to architectural firms, Anderson’s Funeral Directors, and most recently Patterson’s Auctioneers.
Keeping Heritage Alive
Anderson hopes this latest chapter will not only preserve the past but also inspire future generations. By combining tartan history with hands-on skills training, the project aims to create a cultural and educational space that will put Paisley firmly on the map for heritage tourism.
Anyone interested in supporting the project or finding out more can contact Hope Vere Anderson directly at heritage@hopevereanderson.com.
Paisley Photographs 