Doors Open Day : Castlemilk House Fireplace Detail

We visited Castlemilk Stables, restored in 2007. B listed stable block of the former Castlemilk House, which is now home to the offices of Cassiltoun Housing Association.

The 19th century fireplace now in the Stables entrance hall, is one of the few treasures saved when the house was demolished in 1969. It depicts the Siege of Orleans in 1429 where Sir William Stewart (Stuart) of Castlemilk and his brother Sir John, both died in the service of the Dauphin who later became Charles VII of France. Joan of Arc's victory at Orleans was her first battle within three months of meeting the Dauphin and is regarded as one of the decisive battles in world history. Joan is seen here in the centre (lots of hair, without a helmet).

We were told that at one time, the house was a Children's Home. If you look closely, the swords have been broken off. It was thought that if you bent one of the swords, it would open up a secret passageway beside the fireplace. Some of the children have obviously had a go at trying to find it.