CONSERVATIONISTS believe they have uncovered a previously unknown part of Robert Burns's life at the Dumfries farm he lived in for three years.
A new woodland survey has identified that a stand of mature Beech trees in the grounds of Ellisland Farm may have been planted by Robert Burns more than two centuries ago.
The trees, identified by heritage forester Andrew Brown during research commissioned for the farm’s Woodland Management Plan are believed to have been planted by or for Burns during his three year stay at the farm.
The trees today stand on the spoil bank above the Laggan Burn, a watercourse Burns is documented as having dug out as part of his improvements to the farm.
Written records from Burns's time at Ellisland refer both to the ditching of the burn and to tree planting on the farm.
The trust intends to apply to Dumfries and Galloway Council for a Tree Preservation Order recognising the trees' historical association with the poet.
Researchers also believe that they have found evidence that more of the bard's original furnishings have survived than was previously thought.
In the farmhouse the findings include a neoclassical wooden mantelpiece, confirmed as original, as well as Burns's own choice of floorboards, ironmongery, windows, wall presses.
The discoveries come as the Robert Burns Ellisland Trust, which now owns the site, starts its campaign to save the site.
The £12 million Saving the Home of Auld Lang Syne campaign, is the trust's effort to restore the Category A listed farmhouse and secure its future.
The farmhouse is of major historic importance, being where Burns wrote some of his most famous works, including Auld Lang Syne, Tam o Shanter and more than a quarter of his lifetime's output.
Adam Dickson, project curator for the Robert Burns Ellisland Trust, said: "What is striking about these discoveries, taken together, is how directly they connect today's visitors to Burns's daily life at the farm.
"The house he built, the furnishings he selected, and the trees he planted; each is a piece of tangible, physical evidence of his presence here.
"After more than two centuries, there is still a great deal to learn about Robert Burns at Ellisland, and what we are uncovering will shape the way visitors experience this place for generations to come."
Duncan Dornan, chair of the Robert Burns Ellisland Trust said the discoveries strengthen the case for investment and conservation.
He said: "Heritage of this depth and authenticity is rare. To be able to point to the very fabric of the house Burns built and to the very ground he improved, all in the same place, is exceptional.
"I have no doubt that Ellisland deserves to take its place among the most significant literary heritage sites anywhere in the world, and it is clear that these discoveries strengthen the case for the investment now needed to secure its future."
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