Discovering History at Scotland’s Secret Bunker: A Unique F&D Find
At Fisher & Donaldson, we love hearing about the special moments our baked goods create. Recently, we were excited get a message from Dr Sean L Kinnear, an architect and historian, about an extraordinary discovery made during his research at Scotland’s Secret Bunker, just outside St Andrews.
Dr Kinnear (pictured), who recently completed his PhD in architectural history focusing on Cold War nuclear bunkers, found an old Fisher & Donaldson cake bag, dating back to the 1950s, hidden beneath the floorboards of one of the bunker’s dormitories. This find beautifully ties our bakery’s history with the lives of those who worked during a significant time in British and Scottish history.
The Story Behind the Discovery
In February 2023, Dr Kinnear returned to St. Monans after six years in Glasgow and began working at the bunker to further his research. The bunker was built in the early 1950s by the Air Ministry, and Dr Kinnear told us that it,
“played a key role in Britain’s air defence”. It later served as the headquarters for Fife Group Civil Defence Corps and operated as an emergency government bunker until 1993.
While exploring the underfloor service zones, Dr Kinnear came across the old F&D bag.
“It was incredible to find something so ordinary yet so connected to the past,” he shared. “I imagine someone visiting one of the postwar F&D bakeries, enjoying their treat, and then the bag being forgotten under the floorboards.”
Here at Fisher & Donaldson we have an amazing archive filled with photographs, packaging and even some marzipan fruits dating back to the ‘70s! We sent the bag to our Dad to take a look and it’s estimated that Sean’s find dates all the way back to the 1950s, so not long after the bunker was built!
A Sweet Connection
For us at Fisher & Donaldson, this discovery is more than just an old bag; it’s a reminder of the history of Fife and the joy we hope our bakery has brought over the years. Dr Kinnear mentioned,
“My favourite F&D treat is the famous fudge doughnut. It always tastes as great as the last one you eat!”
His sentiment reflects the thoughts of many of our loyal customers. We are all now wondering what cake or savoury was enjoyed back in the early 1950s when the cake bag was discarded!
Looking Forward
As we celebrate this unique connection between our bakery and Scotland’s Secret Bunker, we invite you to share your own Fisher & Donaldson memories. Whether it’s a family tradition, a special occasion, or a simple moment of joy, we love hearing how our bakes have been a part of your lives.
A huge thank you to Dr Kinnear for sharing this fascinating find with us. It’s a wonderful reminder of the rich history we’re all a part of – we’re honoured to be woven into the stories of our community.
Stay tuned for more exciting updates and stories from Fisher & Donaldson!
