The history of Iona Heritage Centre
The Heritage Centre is in the former Church of Scotland Manse which, along with the adjacent Church was designed by Thomas Telford.
When Iona’s Minister retired in 1985, The new Minister was inducted to a linked charge (Iona and the Ross of Mull linked with Kilfinichen and Kilvickeon). Bunessan Manse was used, leaving Iona Manse empty. After an enthusiastic publicity campaign and fund-raising effort, the Church of Scotland agreed to lease the building to Trustees (Iona Residents/Church Members) as a Heritage Centre. It opened to visitors in 1990.
Later, the MacInnes Room opened over lunch-time for two hours, run by volunteers. This is now The Rookery Café.
The Centre displays facets of Island Life since 1700. View historical photos, search for your ancestors, explore the geology and flowers of Iona and browse the Shop for gifts and keep-sakes.
When Iona’s Minister retired in 1985, The new Minister was inducted to a linked charge (Iona and the Ross of Mull linked with Kilfinichen and Kilvickeon). Bunessan Manse was used, leaving Iona Manse empty. After an enthusiastic publicity campaign and fund-raising effort, the Church of Scotland agreed to lease the building to Trustees (Iona Residents/Church Members) as a Heritage Centre. It opened to visitors in 1990.
Later, the MacInnes Room opened over lunch-time for two hours, run by volunteers. This is now The Rookery Café.
The Centre displays facets of Island Life since 1700. View historical photos, search for your ancestors, explore the geology and flowers of Iona and browse the Shop for gifts and keep-sakes.