Discovering the Historic Charm of Aberdeen's Shiprow & Aberdeen Maritime Museum

Aberdeen - After my delayed luggage was delivered to my son's apartment, we walked to meet up with my wife and Pax at Lidl supermarket.  "Lidl" is a German discount supermarket chain. The name "Lidl" is derived from the surname of the company's founder, Josef Schwarz. He established the first Lidl store in 1930 in Germany.   

The prices are relatively cheaper as compared to Singapore supermarkets and we have a fun time putting stuff into the trolleys.  

The Protest

There was a protest on the Gaza war along Union Street (which is the main street of Aberdeen).

The Kirkyard of St Nicolas

The historic church has been on the site since at least 1151, when records show it was referenced in a Papal document. Over the hundreds of years, it has seen – and survived – many notable events, including fire, neglect, the Reformation and even being used as a jail for those accused of being witches, before they were taken to be burnt at the stake in the late 1590s.  

The church

The church was abandoned as the congregation cease to exist from 31 December 2020.  Like the graveyard surrounding it, there was a silent and quiet atmosphere to it.

The courtyard surrounding was filled with gravestones.

Aberdeen's Shiprow

Nestled in the heart of Aberdeen, Scotland, Shiprow is a street steeped in history and charm, located near the bustling harbour. This iconic street, once an essential part of the city's maritime activities, offers a glimpse into Aberdeen's rich past and evolving landscape.

Shiprow

Walking along Shiprow today, visitors can sense the echoes of its maritime heritage. The street's historical significance is palpable, with buildings and landmarks that tell stories of Aberdeen's growth and resilience. Despite the changes, Shiprow retains its character, bridging the gap between the city's storied past and its vibrant present.  

Aberdeen Maritime Museum

The Aberdeen Maritime Museum offers a captivating journey through the city’s rich maritime heritage. Situated on the historic Shiprow, this museum is a treasure trove of nautical artifacts, stories, and exhibits that highlight Aberdeen's deep connection with the sea.

Aberdeen Maritime Museum

This unique setting provides a perfect backdrop for the diverse collection of exhibits. Visitors can explore everything from shipbuilding and the fishing industry to the city’s pivotal role in the North Sea oil industry.  Like this lighthouse that greeted me near the entrance of the museum.

Lighthouse 

A 2nd level view of the lighthouse

Ancient harpoons

Deep sea diving apparatus that was used off the coast of Aberdeen.

The museum provides an in-depth look at the offshore oil and gas industry, which has been integral to Aberdeen's economy and identity in recent decades.

Diving apparatus

One of the museum’s standout features is the detailed models of ships, which span centuries of maritime history. 

Thomas Blake Glover, he was called 'The Scottish Samurai".  He was responsible for commissioning one of the first warships in the Imperial Japanese Navy (the Jo Sho Maru).  Glover was a key figure in the industrialisation of Japan, helping to found the shipbuilding company which was later to become the Mitsubishi Corporation of Japan.

Rusted Propeller blade

An interesting look into the past of Aberdeen being the energy Capital of Europe; with the discovery of North Sea oil and gas in the late 1960s.