John Nelson lives near Crossmichael and has a deep interest in local and family history.

One of his family’s stories became the focus of John’s book: “On the Trail of a Broken Shoe: The true story of the last man hanged in Scotland for horse stealing.” Since publishing the book in early 2022 John has spoken to many audiences about the story, the journey it inspired and the light it sheds on Galloway’s rural past.

Now The Glenkens Story history group – with its motto, “Sharing Our History” – has invited John to talk about how the book itself came about. In conversation with historical novelist Margaret Elphinstone, John will share the story of how he took a family tale, gathered facts from archives and records, polished his story-telling skills in creative writing classes and went on to publish, negotiating the hazards of marketing and the vagaries of the book trade. Every family has its history. This is a story of how that history can be shared.

You’re welcome to come to CatStrand Café for lunch first. We recommend booking in advance to be sure of a table. 01644 420 374.