09-05-2025
'Outstanding' pistols go on public display in rural Stirling village where they were made in the 1700s
The American War of Independence was said to be started by a shot from a Doune-made pistol in 1775 and only a few hundred examples of genuine 'Doune Pistols' are known to remain around the world today.
Ten 18th-century pistols have returned to their place of origin in an extraordinary homecoming for the historic village of Doune.
Once part of a private collection, the pistols are now on permanent public display at the community's Information and Heritage Centre in the village.
Forming the centrepiece of new heritage exhibitions, the collection has been gifted to Kilmadock Development Trust (KDT) by collector Andrew Yool in a remarkable act of generosity.
Crafted by six different Doune hammermen in the 1700s, the pistols are said to be outstanding examples of the artistry that made the village a renowned centre of gunsmithing.
Each piece features elaborate decoration, often Celtic-inspired, applied through fine engraving and silver wire inlay.
'The fact that a representative selection by the most well-known local hammermen has finally found a permanent home on display at Doune for all to see and admire is undoubtedly an occasion for celebration,' said collector Andrew Yool.
'These flintlock firearms are of unique design, construction and decoration, instantly recognised and appreciated worldwide as iconic examples of Scottish ingenuity, craftsmanship and enterprise, as a result of which they have earned international fame for the village of Doune where they were made 300 years ago.'
The roots of Doune's pistolmaking tradition trace back to 1646, when Thomas Caddell brought the gunsmith trade to the village. With iron scarce, he made use of old horseshoe nails and, through dedication to his craft, developed a level of refinement that defined the Doune style much sought-after around Europe. His legacy passed down through generations of apprentices, establishing Doune as the heart of Scotland's pistolmaking industry.
After the Jacobite's defeat at Culloden, Scottish mercenaries fled abroad, taking there arms with them. It is said that the American War of Independence was started by a shot from a Doune-made pistol at the Battles of Lexington and Concord in 1775; later described as being the 'shot heard round the world'.
Only a few hundred examples of genuine 'Doune Pistols' are known to remain in museums and private collections around the world today.
Karen Ross, Chair of KDT says: 'We are thrilled that such a unique part of Doune's history is now on display in the village where they were made, and are grateful to Mr Yool for his generosity.
'While having a practical function, the pistols really are fine works of art and would have taken countless hours of craftsmanship by candlelight to bring to fruition.'
While relatively small places, Doune and Deanston have a wealth of history to delve into. These are featured in the new heritage exhibitions at the Information and Heritage Centre, which have been funded by the National Lottery Heritage Fund. Run by local volunteers, and open throughout the week, visitors are invited to come spend some time and discover the stories of Scotland's historic crossroads.
