Carrbridge woodsman's caravan will be preserved for generations to come
An unusual home belonging to a woodsman has been preserved at the Highland Folk Museum in Newtonmore for generations to come.
Charlie Ross lived in the quaint old caravan for more than 60 years but is now resident in a care home in Forres where he moved to four years ago.
The Woodsman’s Caravan was officially opened on Tuesday by Mr Ross' neighbour and good friend Robert McInnes who donated the caravan to the popular attraction.
Charlie worked in the sawmill on the Seafield Estate in Carrbridge from 1966. He started work at 14 in the timber industry and was employed on various estates south of Inverness.
The caravan he called home for most of this time has now been completely restored to its former glory by Highland Folk Museum staff and volunteers.
Charlie remains a popular character in Carrbridge, and was a great storyteller in his time.
Family and friends recall many enjoyable social evenings were spent in his company at the caravan.
When he retired in 2000, neighbours Landmark Press had electricity installed so Mr Ross no longer had to rely on his generator.
When too frail to live alone, Charlie moved to sheltered housing and left his caravan to Mr McInnes.
Mr McInnes said: “I am delighted the caravan has been restored to such a high standard, and that Charlie’s old caravan will be preserved.
Charlie remains a well-known character in the village despite now living in Forres."
High Life Highland chief executive Steve Walsh said that the home was a welcome addition to the site.
He commented: “The Woodsman’s Caravan gives the opportunity to preserve a traditional mode of transport and accommodation and highlights the importance of the timber industry in the Highlands.”
