Taggart: The People's Archive opens for evidence
Taggart: The People’s Archive has opened to the public on the 40th anniversary of the iconic detective show’s pilot episode.
Glasgow Caledonian University is encouraging members of the public to come forward with stories of the role they played in the success of one of the world’s longest-running police dramas.
A team of retired detectives are hosting drop-in sessions in a mock police station on campus, over the next few days, to take ‘witness statements’ resulting in the creation of a new archive.
Members of the public who were involved in location shoots, worked as extras, played a corpse or provided props or expertise to the show are being urged to come forward so their stories can be captured.
The People's Archive opened on the 40th anniversary of the broadcast date of Killer, the pilot episode for the series, created by Glenn Chandler and produced by STV.
Taggart star Dr Blythe Duff, who played Jackie Reid in the show and is an honorary graduate and cultural fellow of Glasgow Caledonian, said: "Everyone I meet has a Taggart story. I know the series holds a special place in people's hearts.
"A 40th anniversary is significant. Some of us are still here to tell our stories and, sadly, some of us aren't but their families are.
"Some of the stories have already made me weep with joy. Those precious fragments will be collated to become Taggart: The People's Archive."
Carole McCallum, Archivist at Glasgow Caledonian University, said: “What better way is there to give Glasgow, and Scotland, a voice in the Taggart story than through the people who loved and supported it?
“Giving people the chance to add their stories to the programme’s legacy ensures they too have ownership of Taggart’s proud heritage. It also gives us a chance to break barriers and show that archives are for everyone."
Paul Sheehan, Chief Operating Officer of STV Studios, added: "Taggart was watched by millions and millions of people and it was a show that very much put Glasgow on the map.
"Thousands of people from across the city played a part in the success the show had over the years and will have a Taggart tale to tell.
"That's why the idea for a People's Archive is so inspired. We can't think of a better way to celebrate the 40th anniversary."
Drop-in sessions – September 6-8
Glasgow Caledonian University Archive Centre
Sir Alex Ferguson Library
Opening times:
- Wednesday 6 September – 11am – 4pm
- Thursday 7 September – 11am – 7pm
- Friday 8 September – 10.30am – 3pm
Submit online
If you can’t make the sessions, submit your evidence online
