Glen Albyn Distillery 1917

This image, originating from 1917-1918, features Glen Albyn and can be found in its unaltered state on the excellent Canmore online resource. 

Thanks to official records, we know that US forces did not occupy the base until November 27, 1917, suggesting that this photograph likely dates back to the early months of their stay, amidst a typical Highland winter. They were indeed lucky, as the winter of 1916 into 1917 is noted as one of the harshest on record. In contrast, the following winter (1917-1918) was considerably milder. The absence of necessary equipment, tools, and materials for constructing the mines depicted in the image, along with a general lack of production activity, indicates that this photograph likely originates from that early phase.

I utilised A.I. technology to enhance what was once a somber black and white photograph. In previous instances, I noticed it had been cropped, which unfortunately obscured an important detail on the warehouse wall - the name of the distillery, a common feature on prominent distillery exteriors.

In the distance, the twin pagodas rise majestically above the winter scenery that blankets this part of Inverness. It's a striking backdrop, and for the US Navy personnel assigned to the distillery during this time, it must have been one of the most unusual workplaces and bases imaginable, and bitterly cold.

We will revisit the pagodas shortly, as Glen Albyn did not feature such a structure until 1897 (more details on that soon), and its initial design was a single entity before these iconic towers disappeared from the landscape in the 1980s. There is a wealth of history to explore and comprehend regarding this distillery.

What's also of interest is the positioning of the image, as it is taken from a rarely seen vantage point and comes from an period where the distillery site was less developed and more in harmony with its original 1880s vision. We know that the main production buildings were not situated beside the thriving Telford Street. The original positioning seems more in tune with its former status as the Muirtown Brewery prior to the 1840s and a prominent position beside the Muirtown Basin. 

We can take advantage of the map created by the US Navy for Base 18, to examine the layout and structures as they were at that time. I've improved the illustration to enhance its visual clarity.

 

It becomes evident that the photographer is positioned not on the Telford Street side of the distillery site, but rather to the north, in the more rural area. The presence of the lengthy warehouses on the left, supports this observation, along with various other elements. For instance, in the foreground, some railway tracks, partially obscured by snow, can be seen; these tracks were used by the navy to transport mines and equipment to and from the distillery.

Harnessing the capabilities of modern technology, we can magnify the original image, revealing four uniformed figures that seem to materialise like phantoms, undoubtedly longing for the comfort of home and warmer climates. While the tales of the American occupation of the Inverness distilleries are best appreciated through the outstanding book, Northern Barrage, I have written a little about this period via Glen Mhor.

It’s possible that these sailors are searching through warehouses soon after they arrive, hoping to find a forgotten cask or bottle of whisky. Unfortunately, as we understand it, the casks were relocated to Glen Mhor distillery, just across the road, for better security and out of reach of thirsty sailors.

The naval occupation presents an ideal opportunity for exploration for both distilleries on Telford Street. This image offers a glimpse into the original vision from the 1880s design/resurrection and highlights the primary entrance to the distillery, prior to Muirtown's emergence as a bustling community in its own right.