Whispers of the Dewar family linger here in Dewartown. This small hamlet in Midlothian near Pathhead and Mayfield holds secrets from centuries past. Dewartown isn’t just a place. It’s a story etched in stone and whispered on the wind.
Dewartown’s history is intertwined with the Dewar family. They once owned the nearby Vogrie House and Estate. This estate is now Vogrie Country Park. The village’s name itself is a tribute to this family’s influence.
In the 19th century Dewartown was a lively place. It was said to have five public houses. These served the many farmworkers, miners, and house staff from the local community. Imagine the sounds of laughter and chatter that once filled the air.
Despite its age, Dewartown remains absent from many maps. A testament to its quiet existence. Some of its cottages date back to the early 18th century. These sturdy structures have stood the test of time.
Even the spelling of Dewartown has seen changes. In the late 1990s signs appeared calling it Dewarton. This regional contraction used ‘ton’ instead of ‘town’. Both spellings are correct. The signs were eventually replaced with the latter spelling.
In 1851, Dewartown was described as a pleasing village. It consisted mainly of small holdings on the Vogrie estate. Dwellings lined one side of the road. A plantation stood in front with a small stream flowing nearby. The surrounding scenery was very picturesque.
Dewartown was once one of the most considerable villages in the parish of Borthwick. It had 193 inhabitants. This hints at a bustling community. Life centered around the Vogrie estate and its activities.
Today Dewartown is a conservation area. It was designated in 1975 and greatly extended in the early 21st century. This protects its historical character. It ensures that its story continues to be told.
The almost continuous terrace of single-story cottages is notable. Most have red pantile roofs. These create a distinctive architectural character. They reflect the region’s building traditions.
Take a moment to appreciate the simplicity and charm of Dewartown. Think of the Dewar family. Remember the workers who once frequented its pubs. Consider the generations who have called this hamlet home.
Dewartown may be small. It may be missing from some maps. It is a place with a rich past. Its story deserves to be remembered.