Bookings open for opening event for exhibition “1776 - A year that changed the world”
Added at 18:45 on 04 June 2026
Book now for the opening event for our exhibition “1776 - A year that changed the world” on Friday, 3 July in Dunblane Cathedral Hall for what promises to be an evening of engaging insights, refreshments and early access to a fascinating exhibition marking 250 years since 1776, a year of global upheaval, intellectual brilliance and far-reaching historical impact.
This special joint exhibition (held in Dunblane Museum and the Leighton Library throughout July) traces the links between the American Revolution and the Scottish Enlightenment in the year that American independence was declared. Trustees of the Leighton Library were actively acquiring key works of Enlightenment thought, and on display at the Library will be eight of these surviving volumes, with maps from our original copy of the American Atlas on display at Dunblane Museum - the most up to date cartographic record of the colonies on the eve of revolution.
The evening will feature short talks from our guest speakers:
Kathryn Porter, US Consul General
Lord George Robertson, Patron of the Leighton Library
Dr Josh Smith, University of Stirling
Following the talks, attendees will be invited to view the exhibition at both Dunblane Museum and enjoy exclusive evening access to the Leighton Library, which will remain open until 9pm. Doors open for the launch event at 6pm, with talks beginning at 6.30 p.m.
Spaces are limited so click on this link to book now to avoid disappointment.