Replica trench at Black Watch Castle

Following on from Poppies: Weeping Window by artist Paul Cummins and Designer, Tom Piper, the trench is yet another poignant focus to the Castle and Museum’s continuing programme to commemorate the centenary year of the First World War.

The structure of the trench was constructed over five days, on site using timber frames and wire gambion with the exterior wrapped in hessian. The structure stands approximately three metres above the ground and includes an observation post, dug out, shelter and firing step. The replica trench has been created to give an atmospheric, thought-provoking understanding of what everyday life was like for soldiers living and fighting in the trenches.

Shonagh Lowerson-Head, Learning and Audience Officer at the Castle and Museum said: “This structure is an innovative way to bring the experience of the trenches to our audience. The trench will initially be accessed by school aged and adult learners, to enhance their knowledge and understanding of the First World War. We will also design specific events around it. We are looking into ways to open the trench for all visitors, on selected days, throughout the year.”

The replica trench system was designed by independent military historian, author and broadcaster Andy Robertshaw, who has appeared on Channel 4’s Time Team and was a military advisor on the film War Horse. A similar structure can be viewed at the Potteries Museum and Art Gallery, Stoke-on-Trent.