The History of Sweet Treats on Academy Street!
A sell-out crowd attended a special talk today, Monday 12th June, at Inverness Town House. It was a rare opportunity to hear Master Baker Harry Gow and local Historian Norman Newton exploring the fascintating history of the former Burnett Bakery, and the path that led Harry to set up his own business in 1979.
Many local people have memories of special times at Burnett’s Tea Rooms when it was on Academy Street. Todays talk was a unique opportunity to hear untold stories and see rare family images from throughout Harry Gow’s six decades in the family bakery business. Academy Street Townscape Heritage Project is working in partnership with Visit Inverness Loch Ness to run a series of talks, to highlight the rich and diverse history of Academy Street and Inverness City Centre.
Councillor Richard Laird, Chair of the Townscape Heritage Partnership commented: “This talk was a great event and I am delighted to have heard Harry and Norman explain the family connection between Harry’s Uncles, the Burnetts, and the fantastic legacy they have given him. It is stories like we’ve heard today that bring Academy Streets rich heritage to life for everyone.”
Speaking at the event, Harry Gow said: “I am happy to be able to share some stories of life as a baker, as well as images from my family’s archive for future generations to come. I know that Burnett’s was a very popular place for many folk and that the Burnetts brought high standards and innovation to the Highlands, which we at Harry Gow always aim to continue. I also hope that I have triggered and perhaps even created more memories!”
Inverness Townscape Heritage project is a partnership project with The Highland Council, Heritage Lottery Fund, Historic Environment Scotland, Inverness City Heritage Trust and Inverness BID. The project focusses on the regeneration of Academy Street through its rich heritage.
Left to right Cllr Richard Laird, Sarah James -Gaukroger of the Townscape Heritage Project, Harry Gow and Norman Newton.