By Douglas J. Cusine
Stonehaven residents and the constant stream of visitors to our seaside town,have never ceased to be impressed by the Market Square and its classic regular layout with open space a key feature.
It is of course far more than an open space, currently providing much needed parking to service the varied business activity and shops. It provides a unique community focus for events, e.g. the annual Feein’ Market, the Remembrance Service and in the summer months, car-boot sales. However, its most noticeable structure—that on the east side—is the Market Buildings which, in days gone by, was where the Town Council met.
It is a classical-looking building in pink granite ashlar, with arcades at both ends. It was built in 1826 and the iconic clock tower and spire were added in 1857/58. That part is owned by Aberdeenshire Council and the shops on the ground floor are in private ownership.
The remainder is owned and occupied by the Unionist Club of Stonehaven and is accessible only from Allardice Street. It can trace its roots back to 1886 and took up residency in the current building in 1902. The Club currently owns the second floor and the third floor flat along with the distinctive arched pends at either end of the ground floor. The Haven, a charity which provides an array of services to the community, currently rents space on the second floor.
The Club has always been a hub for business and social interaction with many a deal being finalised in the splendid Club rooms.
Community groups can hire the premises and Club members can enjoy a quiet evening in pleasant surroundings with good company and a drink from the bar. At present, the Club is open on Thursday and Friday evenings with opening available on other nights for functions. There are a number of events throughout the year, including the Annual Dinner, guest speakers for a pie and pint while not forgetting the annual Putting competition.
There are only a few places in Stonehaven where clubs can meet, or where functions can take place, but, without doubt, the Unionist Club is the most central and almost certainly, the oldest venue. The Unionist Club always welcomes new members with current membership growing, and so if you would be interested in becoming a member to utilise these unique and historic facilities right in the centre of Stonehaven, then please e-mail us:- unionistclubstn@gmail.com
