Robert Dick Collection:

Robert Dick (1811 – 1866) was one of Thurso’s biggest celebrities. Hailing from humble origins in Clackmannanshire, he moved to Thurso at the age of nineteen to open a bakery. Despite his limited means, he went on to become one of Great Britain’s most respected Botanists and Geologists. He pursued his passion of studying plants, insects and fossils in his free time, relying on self-taught skills. Through his dedicated work he made several significant finds, such as previously unknown fossils and a plant species called Holy Grass, which was thought to be extinct before Robert Dick rediscovered it in Caithness.

For the rest of his life, baker remained his primary profession, as Robert Dick rejected offers to teach at Edinburgh University in favour of the quiet and simple life in Thurso. The exhibition dedicated to him at North Coast Visitor Centre gives insight into the impressive collection of specimens he accumulated throughout his intriguing life.