05/09/2026
Our new temporary exhibition, Sing, O Sad Heart, is now open at The Black Watch Castle and Museum.
The exhibition introduces Alexander James “Hamish” Mann, a young poet, playwright, writer and Black Watch soldier whose creative work continued alongside his military service during the First World War.
Hamish was born in Broughty Ferry in 1896 and began writing from an early age. By the time he arrived in France with The Black Watch in 1916, aged just 20, he had already written and published poetry and produced a number of plays.
The Museum is privileged to care for his extensive collection. Through his poetry, diaries, letters and personal papers, Sing, O Sad Heart offers an insight into Hamish’s writing, experiences and thoughts during a period of enormous change. The exhibition also looks at the relationship between The Black Watch, writing and the First World War, including the work of Dundee poet and illustrator Joseph Lee.
We opened the exhibition last night with The Friends of The Black Watch Castle and Museum, the donor of Hamish Mann’s collection and guests. Readings from Hamish’s poetry provided an opportunity to hear his own words and recognise the accomplishments and talents of this remarkable young man.
Sing, O Sad Heart is now open and available to visit at The Black Watch Castle and Museum.
📅 Open from Saturday 5 September 2026
🎟 Included with standard Museum admission
🔗 More Information: https://theblackwatch.co.uk/blog/exhibitions/sing-o-sad-heart/
