In this episode, we find out about the displays and objects at Prestongrange Museum, which illustrate the role that Prestonpans played in the industrial heritage of East Lothian. Visitor Services Officers for the Museum speak about the history behind the displays, their experiences and fascinating stories too.

We kick-off Season 2 with a chat on one of the most famous and controversial characters in Scottish history. Dr Amy Blakeway of St Andrews University shares her research based findings and opinions on some key questions relating to Mary, Queen of Scots - her early life, her relationship with Elizabeth 1, her dealings with the Earl of Bothwell, and her connection to East Lothian and the Rough Wooing. Dr Blakeway also speaks about her favourite depiction of Mary.

In this final episode and Season 1 finale, author and local historian Annemarie Allan speaks about her research findings on the witchcraft persecutions that specifically occurred in Prestonpans. Annemarie also shares her thoughts on the significance of the witchcraft scenario to women’s history today.

In this continuing episode, David McKenzie Robertson, speaks about the processes of accusation and punishment of those persecuted for witchcraft in East Lothian. David also highlights some of the more fascinating findings in his research.

Scotland is known for its high rates of witchcraft prosecution in the 16th & 17th centuries, with almost 4000 documented cases and possibly as many as 2500 executions. East Lothian was at the epicentre of the persecution of individuals at this time. Our host speaks with local author and historian Mr David McKenzie Robertson who has researched and published extensively on the subject of witchcraft in East Lothian. In this part, David speaks about the witch panic and highlights some of the more prominent cases in East Lothian/Haddingtonshire.

Dr. Arran Paul Johnston, writer, historian and Director at the Scottish Battlefields Trust speaks to our host about his exhibition, “Hey Johnnie Cope!”, the Battle of Prestonpans (1745), Prince Charlie, all things Jacobites, and even the ‘Outlander’ TV series!

Dr Claire Pannell, the Collections Officer at East Lothian Museum Service, chats about her favourite items in the collection. Claire also explains how museum items are stored and looked after, and mentions some of the other interesting museums in East Lothian.

In this episode, the podcast host and two previous Local History Officers at the John Gray Centre reminisce about some of the more fascinating cases and stories that they have dealt with when helping customers with family history research.

The Old Statistical Accounts of Dunbar, recorded in 1791, mentions 46 licensed ale-houses. This episode covers some fascinating information about Dunbar’s old inns and ale-houses including the history behind their names, the activities of some inn-keepers, and other curious details.

This introductory chat focuses on why the John Gray Centre in Haddington is named after Scottish minister and historical figure John Gray.