Hi friends. I have a case of the glooomies. I can think of no other reason except that it’s the end of February, which here in Virginia feels like the purgatory of months. It may be the shortest month, but somehow it feels like the longest! Hurry up, spring!
Today we’re going to take a look at one of Edinburgh’s most iconic structures – the Scott Monument.
The Scott Monument is an awesome, gothic tower built as a tribute to one of Scotland’s most beloved writers, Sir Walter Scott. I think it looks as if it could have come straight out of J.R.R. Tolkien’s imagination!
Sir Walter Scott was a poet and novelist who authored such works as “Lady of the Lake” and “Ivanhoe.” He is credited with having created the historical novel, upon the publication of “Waverly” in 1814.
In 1836, four years after Scott’s death, the city of Edinburgh announced an architectural competition, by which individuals were encouraged to submit proposals for a monument befitting the deceased writer. In 1838, George Meikle Kemp, an unknown carpenter and self-taught architect was chosen as the winner of the competition. Additionally, a gentleman by the name of Sir John Steell was chosen to sculpt the marble carving of Scott and his dog Maida that lies at the base of the tower.
Construction of the monument began in 1840 and was completed within four years. Sadly, Mr. Kemp never saw the completion of his vision. He drowned in March 1844, just a few months before the project was finished. Such a sad ending for a man who must have felt so proud of what he had accomplished.
At one time, Edinburgh’s air hung heavy with thick, choking smog caused by chimney and coal fire. As a result of the soot, many of the buildings took on a black appearance. Despite an effort to clean the Scott Monument in the 1990s, it still retains a dark complexion.
It is one hundred seventy-five years later, and George Meikle Kemp’s legacy remains alive. Today, visitors to the Edinburgh monument can learn about its story as well as the life of Sir Walter Scott when they visit the Museum Room on the first floor. Or, for panoramic views of the city, climb the narrow spiral staircase to the top. I have not been inside the monument, but the views of the city from up there must be just incredible!
Have you climbed to the top of the Scott Monument? If you are a fan of Walter Scott, what are some of your favorites among his works? Leave a comment and let me know.
Well, that’s it for today, folks. I’ll see you again next time, and hopefully, by then, I’ll have a little more “spring” in my step. 😀
Cheers,
*black and white photo courtesy of Pixabay
Be strong. Spring is around the corner ☺️
Boy, I sure hope so!
I would so love to see this. A great post!
Thank you!
I am feeling this is The Winter of My Discontent. I live in Minneapolis and we just got six more inches of snow yesterday—my husband is running out of places to put it! I am ready for spring too 🙂
Haha, I feel your pain. I used to live in Fago! I think we have had only one major snow here in VA this year, but it almost literally never stops raining. I love rainy days but I have never seen it rain so much in my life! Our yard is a total wreck. Add the cold on top of that and ugh.
(When he shovels, I mean.)
Snowig again here in the mid-west! Spring can’t come soon enough – nor could another trip to Edinburgh!
I agree. 😀