Jimmy Shand black plaque

This black commemorative plaque records: This memorial was erected to commemorate the hundredth anniversary of the birth of Sir James Shand M.B.E., M.A., the world famous Scottish musician who was born in East Wemyss near this site on 28th January 1908. Jimmy Shand, as he was affectionately known, began his working life at the age of fourteen when he became a miner at nearby Lochhead Colliery. From that humble beginning he rose to become internationally recognised as a brilliant accordionist specialising in Scottish country dancing. Many great honours were heaped upon him, the greatest being made a Knight of the Realm in 1999 at Holyrood. Although, in his long, distinguished career he performed all over the world, he never forgot his place of birth. The memorial was instigated entirely be Easy Wemyss folk as a tribute to their most famous son. Wemyss Preservation Group, Save Wemyss Ancient Caves Society. Research: Alex Darwood Recorded plaque organisation: Wemyess Preservation Group, Save Wemyss Ancient Caves Society.

Jimmy Shand was a renowned Scottish accordionist and bandleader who popularized Scottish country dancing music internationally throughout his long career. Born into humble beginnings as a coal miner, he rose to international fame and was knighted in 1999 for his contributions to music and Scottish culture.