The Old Paisley Society was founded in 1977 to inform local people about the town's history and architecture. In 1983, the society purchased a row of millworkers' houses, and two years later a weaver's cottage. These buildings were restored by members and friends of the society and became the Sma' Shot Cottages, now an important part of the town's heritage.
The society still operates the Cottages to this day, relying on a dedicated team of volunteers who manage the museum, take visitors on guided tours, and help serve delicious food and drinks in the Alexander Wilson tearoom. Get in touch via our contact form if you would like to join the Old Paisley Society and find out more about how you can take part.
OUR VISION
We aim to create a welcoming and stimulating environment which plays a key role in the preservation of Paisley's rich past.
OUR MISSION
To inspire and encourage people to learn and appreciate Paisley’s rich cultural and
radical heritage. We aim to encourage and develop pride in Paisley by engaging both
locals and the wider tourist market. Our goal is to actively engage people in the life and
culture of Paisley and specifically the life of the Cottages.
OUR VALUES
Promote the Sma' Shot Cottages and Paisley as a hub of local and national culture.
Treat everyone with respect and dignity.
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Foster good relations with other local heritage organisations within the town.
Be custodians of the past for future generations.
Maintain the unique qualities and ethos of the Sma' Shot Cottages.
OUR OBJECTIVES
To encapsulate and celebrate the lives of weavers and
mill workers in Paisley
The Old Paisley Society will work with the local community and national agencies to tell the story of the weaving industry and mills in Paisley from pre-industrial times to the industrial revolution.
The Sma' Shot Museum and Heritage Centre will become an essential visitor destination in exploring social and cultural heritage.
Quality visitor experience will be at the heart of our museum. Trained and informative tour guides will enhance the visitor experience.
The Cottages will be a source of pride in the community.
We will develop and maintain the fabric of the building and garden spaces.
Volunteering will remain at the heart of the cottages
We will continue to actively recruit, train and retain volunteers from the local
community.
Provide quality interaction between visitors, guides and volunteers.
Organisation and Planning
Operate efficiently and in a businesslike manner in line with our charitable status.​
Maintain robust financial records to ensure financial stability.
Promote the Sma' Shot Cottages within the Travel and Tourism Trade.
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Develop rigorous business and succession planning.
A CENTURY OF PAISLEY
Ellen Farmer & The Old Paisley Society
The History Press, 2007
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This fascinating selection of photographs illustrates the extraordinary transformation that has taken place in Paisley during the last 100 years. The book offers an insight into the daily lives and living conditions of local people, and gives the reader glimpses and details of familiar places during a century of unprecedented change.
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ELLEN FARMER worked in Ferguslie Mills and then an insurance company for twenty years. She was a founding member of the Old Paisley Society and received an MBE for her services to the society.