Portobello Beach, Assessment of Condition

Category

Library Item

Item no

4235

Title

Portobello Beach, assessment of condition

Description

Dapper gentlemen in top hats and morning suits assess the condition of Portobello Beach, Edinburgh. Two are inspecting a line of stones on the beach whilst another stands some distance away. In the background are the chimneys of the Portobello potteries.

Artist / maker

McKean, John

Date

1891

Size

24 x 29.4 cm

Type

Photograph

Location

Edinburgh and Scottish Collection

Portobello developed around a cottage built in the mid 18th century. The sailor who occupied the cottage had fought at Puerto Bello, a port in Panama captured by the British in 1739, and named his home after the battle. With its long beach the town became an increasingly popular leisure destination. It boasted a pier between 1871-1917 and an outdoor swimming pool between 1936-1979. Holidaymakers and day-trippers could also visit the Marine Gardens or the fun fair, both now demolished. The town has been part of Edinburgh since 1896.

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Related subjects

Architecture > Architectural features > Chimneys

Manufacturing Industry > Manufacturing facilities > Factories

People > Health and safety > Environmental inspectors

Places > Edinburgh areas > Portobello

Places > Scotland > Edinburgh

Sport and leisure > Sports and recreation facilities > Beaches

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