Thursday 8 April 2010

North Leith Burial Ground


Located alongside the Water of Leith in Coburg Street. The ground was opened in 1644.  The top photo is a burial of a Master Mariner, John Robertson, in 1714, he had been master since 1690.  Considering the date of the ground many of the interred lived to a ripe old age.
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3 comments:

  1. richard9 April 2010 at 12:31

    What's with all the skull and crossbones stuff? Is that a maritime tradition, or were they all pirates?

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  2. Frances9 April 2010 at 15:56

    This is dead interesting!

    Have you seen the ones in Perth?
    http://www.undiscoveredscotland.co.uk/perth/greyfriars/index.html

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  3. Stewart9 April 2010 at 21:05

    The skull and crossbones are common in burials in the 1600's and early 1700's. Just a reminder for the viewer of their mortality. The hourglass is also common, the passing of time. If it is on its side it would denote a long life. Also inscribed would be tools of the trade. On the reverse of Captain Robertson's tombstone there is a ship.
    The old ones are the best Frances. Haven't been to the Perth cemetery. I'll add it to a future death tour.

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