Laying the foundation stone of Edinburgh University

Category

Library Item

Item no

11074

Title

Ceremony of laying the foundation stone of the University of Edinburgh 16th Novr. 1789

Description

A large crowd assembled on South Bridge, Edinburgh to witness the laying of the foundation stone for the University of Edinburgh. City officials and dignitaries stand to the fore carrying ceremonial maces and other objects. Other groups of people can be seen behind. A drawing of the planned building is attached to a wooden pole above a block of stone.

Artist / maker

Allan, David

Date

1789

Size

33.4 x 46.5 cm

Type

Etching

Location

Edinburgh and Scottish Collection

The construction of Old College, according to Robert Adam's designs, began in 1789. Adams' death and the beginning of the Napoleonic Wars led to the project being halted in 1792. It was recommenced in 1817 by William Playfair, and work was largely completed by the mid 1830's. It was not until 1887 that the final finishing touch, a large dome similar to that in Adam's original design, was put to the building by Robert Rowand Anderson. This dome was topped with a bronze statue the following year. The building is still used by the University of Edinburgh.

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Related subjects

Education > Educational facilities > Universities and colleges

Events > Ceremonies > Laying of foundation stone

People > Politics and government > City Council Members

Places > Edinburgh areas > Southside

Places > Scotland > Edinburgh

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