News

‘Working Over By’ focuses on the men and women from Donegal who travelled to Scotland between circa 1940 and 1990 seeking employment in various sectors such as agriculture, construction, fishing,  domestic service, transport and other industries.

These individuals played a vital role in shaping the connections between Donegal and Scotland, and this project aims to ensure that their contributions are remembered and celebrated.

The initiative seeks to gather photographs, personal stories, letters, diaries, documents and objects that capture the lives and experiences of these Donegal workers in Scotland. These materials will form the foundation of a major upcoming exhibition, offering a comprehensive look into the historical context, working conditions and types of employment that Donegal people found in Scotland during this period.

Donegal County Council is encouraging community involvement, inviting residents to contribute any old photographs or stories related to Donegal workers in Scotland. These contributions are crucial in creating a rich, inclusive archive that reflects the diverse experiences of those who left Donegal to find work in Scotland.

The response to the initial call for contributions has been positive and Donegal County Council is keen to ensure that these first-hand experiences of work by Donegal people in Scotland are captured and presented in an engaging way. By contributing to this exhibition, Donegal people can help preserve this important aspect of their heritage for future generations.

For more information on how to contribute to the ‘Working Over By’ project or to learn more about the upcoming exhibition please contact:

Email: donegalscotland@donegalcoco.ie

Telephone: (074) 916 3824

Website: www.donegalcoco.ie/heritage

Image Credits:

Maggie O’Donnell from Dungloe pictured at work as a maid in a parochial house in Dundee in the late 1930s (Image courtesy of Sheila Friel)

Willie McBride from Milford pictured carrying a pipe threader at work as a pipe fitter with William Press in Glasgow circa 1970 (Image courtesy of Sheila Friel)