Rachael Purse

About This Business

Rachael Purse is a Cultural Historian and Built Heritage professional based in Scotland, with a diverse range of research interests that include Women's History, Building Conservation, Architectural History, and Dress History. Her work is deeply rooted in her passion for understanding and preserving the past, which was fostered from a young age through visits to museums and heritage sites across Scotland. This early fascination with history led her to pursue academic studies in Medieval and Early Modern History at the University of Glasgow, where she had the opportunity to delve into women's histories. Her undergraduate dissertation focused on Scottish Renaissance Palaces, laying the groundwork for her future academic and professional pursuits. Rachael furthered her education with an MSc in Museum Studies, specializing in Dress & Textile Histories. Her dissertation explored the significant role of dress as a form of protest among Suffragettes and Suffragists in Scotland, highlighting her ability to intertwine historical research with contemporary relevance. Beyond her academic achievements, Rachael has engaged in practical applications of her knowledge through internships with Glasgow City Heritage Trust (GCHT). One notable project involved creating an exhibition on the city's Victorian and Edwardian Swimming Baths, while another saw her collaborating with the Scottish Stained Glass Trust to establish an online database of stained glass in Scotland. These experiences not only demonstrate her commitment to preserving cultural heritage but also her capacity to work across different sectors and disciplines. Rachael's research has gained recognition, notably with her work on the restoration of Glasgow School of Art's Mackintosh Building being referenced in 'The Mack: Charles Rennie Mackintosh and the Glasgow School of Art', published by Yale University Press. This publication, written by her PhD Supervisor and friend, Dr. Robyne Calvert, is a testament to the quality and impact of her research. As an Associate Member of the Institute of Historic Building Conservators (IHBC), Rachael is accredited in conservation practice, underscoring her professional standing and expertise in generating positive change in the built and historic environment. Her PhD in Building Conservation & Architectural History, supported by the Bringing Back the Mack PhD Scholarship funded by Glasgow School of Art and Historic Environment Scotland, further solidifies her position as a leading professional in her field. Through her work, Rachael Purse embodies a dedication to the preservation and celebration of cultural and built heritage, contributing valuable insights and expertise to these fields. Her unique blend of academic rigor, practical experience, and passion for history makes her a significant figure in the realm of cultural and built heritage conservation.