What Surprising Discovery Did a Grandson Make Behind the Wallpaper?

In a heartwarming tale of nostalgia and discovery, a man named Mark Strathan uncovered his grandfather's handwritten notes hidden behind wallpaper in his newly purchased home. This remarkable find not only brought back fond memories but also highlighted the sentimental value of family legacies in real estate.

Last updated: 01 October 2023 (BST)

Key Takeaways from the Discovery

• Mark Strathan found his grandfather's handwritten notes while renovating his late grandparents' home.
• The notes documented home renovations from the 1970s, serving as a personal time capsule.
• Mark and his partner transformed the property, adding modern features while preserving its heritage.
• They have decided to sell the house for £299,000 to embark on a new chapter after personal challenges.
• The couple's Instagram journey has garnered a significant following, showcasing their renovation process.

Discovering Family History in Home Renovation

Mark Strathan's unexpected find in New Deer, Aberdeenshire, is a poignant reminder of the connections we hold with our ancestors. After purchasing his grandparents' house in 2017, Mark began the process of renovating the quaint stone-walled cottage that had once been his childhood home. While stripping away layers of old wallpaper, he stumbled upon hidden treasures: notes penned by his grandfather, Wullie Strathan, during his own renovations in the 1970s.

A Glimpse into the Past

The notes not only carried Wullie's signature but also detailed significant home improvements, including when windows were fitted and wallpaper was applied. For Mark, these annotations were more than mere scribbles; they were a connection to his past, evoking memories of his grandparents, Nellie and Wullie, who had raised him during a pivotal time in his life.

The Emotional Impact of Renovation

Mr Cunningham, Mark's partner, expressed that the discovery was akin to a flashback for Mark. The notes served as a bridge across generations, linking their experiences to those of previous inhabitants. The couple took this sentiment further by writing their names in secret spots behind the walls, creating their own legacy within the home. They hope that future homeowners will also find these notes, connecting them to their own stories.

Transforming a Family Legacy

Since acquiring the property, Mark and Mr Cunningham have invested considerable effort into modernising the interior while respecting its historical character. Their renovations include:

• Installing new heating and electrics.
• Updating windows and doors for improved aesthetics and energy efficiency.
• Creating an open-plan kitchen, dining, and living space for contemporary living.
• Adding a new toilet and utility room for convenience.

The result is a harmonious blend of old and new, making the house not just a residence but a cherished home that reflects their personal style and the history of the place.

Sharing Their Journey Online

The couple has documented their renovation journey on Instagram, where they have garnered over 26,000 followers. Their account, @homewiththemarks, showcases the transformation of the property, providing inspiration to others undertaking similar projects. Through their posts, they have fostered a community of fellow home renovators and enthusiasts, sharing tips, progress updates, and the emotional significance behind their choices.

Facing New Challenges

After nearly eight years of calling the home a sanctuary, the couple has made the difficult decision to sell the property for £299,000. This choice is driven by personal circumstances, particularly Mr Cunningham's cancer diagnosis, which has prompted them to seek a new chapter in their lives. Despite the sad prospect of leaving a place filled with memories, they recognise that it is time to move on.

The Future of Their Home

As they prepare to close the door on this chapter, Mark and Mr Cunningham reflect on their time spent in the house and the memories created within its walls. The decision to sell is bittersweet, but it opens the door for new adventures and the promise of creating a fresh start elsewhere.

The Value of Legacy in Property

This story underscores the importance of family legacies in the realm of real estate. Homes are not merely structures; they are repositories of memories, history, and personal narratives. For Mark and Mr Cunningham, the handwritten notes serve as a poignant reminder of their roots, while their renovations represent a new beginning. As they step into the future, they carry with them the stories of those who came before them, intertwined with their own.

What Lies Ahead?

As the couple lists their home, they hope to pass it on to someone who will appreciate its history and continue to build upon the legacy of love and care that their grandparents instilled in the property. The journey of Mark and Mr Cunningham serves as a testament to the enduring connections we have with our homes, highlighting how every renovation holds the potential to unearth stories from the past.

FAQs

What did Mark Strathan find behind the wallpaper?

Mark Strathan discovered handwritten notes from his grandfather, detailing home renovations from the 1970s, hidden behind the wallpaper of his grandparents' home.

Why did Mark and his partner decide to sell the house?

They decided to sell the house for £299,000 to begin a new chapter in their lives following Mr Cunningham’s cancer diagnosis, as the home became too large for just the two of them.

How has the couple documented their renovation journey?

Mark and his partner have shared their renovation experiences on Instagram, where they have gained over 26,000 followers, providing inspiration and updates on their home transformations.

What renovations did the couple undertake in the home?

The couple modernised the home with new heating, electrics, windows, and doors, as well as creating an open-plan kitchen, dining, and living space, while also adding a new toilet and utility room.

What legacy do they hope to pass on to future homeowners?

Mark and Mr Cunningham hope that future homeowners will appreciate the home's history and continue building on the legacy left by Mark's grandparents, while also discovering their own hidden notes as a way to connect with the past.

As this story demonstrates, the home is more than just a physical space; it is a tapestry of memories that weaves together past and present. What hidden stories might your home hold? #HomeRenovation #FamilyLegacy #Nostalgia