Bryan Dickson shares Lochvale Boys Home Trust story, focusing on positives from 1923 to 1980 Dumfries Scotland.
Bryan wanted to share the home’s positive aspects and considered writing this story for years. He felt he needed to write it before his memory faded. He wanted to finish it and felt obligated to tell Lochvale’s story. The home helped him from 1960 to 1967.
Bryan has the home’s original records. These cover 1923 to 1980, when it closed. Bryan thinks his experience was unique but believes most boys had a similar time.
He hopes people learn positive things about the home. He wants to share the true story of Lochvale, which covers 1923 to 1980, showing life for boys at the home. He aims to correct any negative stories.
News stories on children’s homes are often bad. This happens when abuse or neglect gets reported. He wants his story to be uplifting, focusing on hope and success. He also wants to show gratitude.
He will honor people who helped. These include board members and staff who gave time, support, and money. They aided the 474 boys at Lochvale and gave each boy a chance in life. Bryan says he is a “Lochvale Boy” and is proud of it.
Bryan will host an event at Lochvale on Saturday, June 7. He invited former Lochvale boys and families.
Judith Hewitt from the museum and Anne Rinaldi from the council archives will attend. Other interested people are welcome.