The birth of the village occurred in 1797 when Alexander 4th Duke of Gordon formed Portgordon or Port Gordon. (the original name has been the subject of much debate over the years) The Duke created something that had begun as a settlement and grew into a village which brought housing and jobs to the area - Portgordon prospered and expanded as a result of the fishing industry. The growth of which is due no doubt to the abundance of fish along the local area known as the Moray Firth. Not only did the harbour become home to a fishing fleet of about 100 boats it became a well know centre of excellence for it's boat building and many fine craft were built here including numerous Steam Drifters the iconic boats that were to pave the way to prosperity for many.

The Duke made the building blocks of the village but did you know he is held in reverence for the part he played in military history - On the 24th June 1794 he raised one of the most famous regiments in the world - The Gordon Highlanders - feared by their enemies and held in the highest esteem by their allies.

The Gordon Highlanders are now a part of history but they will never be forgotten. Many books have been written detailing the exploits of the regiment. There is a museum in Aberdeen dedicated to preserving their spirt - there are even enactment groups around the world that keep the name alive - and the respect.

The Gordon Highlanders Museum is in Aberdeen. The website address is:

www.gordonhighlanders.com