Sundial in the Hermitage of Braids

Category

Library Item

Item no

27055

Title

Sundial in the Hermitage of Braids

Description

The original sundial was installed in 1938 to celebrate the gift of the Hermitage to the City of Edinburgh by John McDougal.

Artist / maker

MacLean, Kevin

Date

2012

Type

Digital image

The original sundial was installed in 1938 to celebrate the gift of the Hermitage to the City of Edinburgh by John McDougal. However the complicated bronze superstructure, which originally topped the plinth, was removed or lost at some time during the post-war period and was never replaced.

In 2003 local resident, Mr George Russell, raised enough funds to install a new sundial and renovate the plinth. The new sundial is not the same as the original as it was considered the first style would be too vulnerable to vandalism. The new design was masterminded by Mr John Bartholomew in consultation with the Council and the Friends of Hermitage of Braid and Blackford Hill. The bronze design incorporates a beautifully drawn set of wildlife pictures created by Owen Kirby, as well as some details of how to use the sundial at different times of year and an attractive gnomon with inscriptions.

The Hermitage of Braid is a wildlife haven tucked between Morningside and Liberton, immediately north of the Braid Hills. It was designated a Local Nature Reserve in 1993 in recognition of its importance to both wildlife and people. It offers an escape from urban life with a wide range of walks from a leisurely stroll along the Braid Burn to a steep climb on the slopes of Blackford Hill.

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Related subjects

Landscape > Landscape architectural facilities > Sundials

Places > Edinburgh areas > Hermitage

Places > Scotland > Edinburgh

Plants > Trees

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