Drylaw Parish Church

From farmland to faith, that’s the story of Drylaw Parish Church. Here, amidst the bustling streets of modern Edinburgh, Drylaw Parish Church stands as a testament to community spirit. Drylaw Parish Church was built in 1956 by renowned architects, Sir William Kininmonth, Rowand Anderson, and Paul. Their design, a nod to the area’s agricultural past, resembles farm buildings, a stark contrast against the surrounding houses. The original Drylaw House, dating back to the early 17th century, now lies in ruins. However, a later Drylaw House, built in 1718, still graces the area, though with some alterations from 1786. Drylaw Parish Church wasn’t always here. The congregation first began meeting in Crewe Toll in 1952. The present site for Drylaw Parish Church was purchased in 1954 for £34/2/6 per annum. The foundation stone was laid a year later, in 1955, marking the official start of this church’s life. What’s truly remarkable is how this community rallied to build Drylaw Parish Church. Local residents, understanding its importance, contributed significantly. Imagine, 80% of Drylaw’s population, chipping in sixpence every Friday. This collective effort transformed a vision into a reality. The church quickly became a hub of activity. In the 1960s, the Sunday School flourished, boasting up to 1,000 children. Think of the annual picnic, requiring eight hired buses. The Boys Brigade, Guides, and Brownies thrived. Holiday clubs pulsed with life twice a year. Later, in the 1970s, the Young Mums Group took center stage. Their variety shows, “Tots to Teens,” brought together generations, with older adults assisting in creating costumes and props. The 1980s saw the birth of the Rainbow Club for older people, which continues to this day. Drylaw Parish Church also became a stage for a pop opera, “Xmas Jazz.” The creative spirit continued into the 1990s with annual flower festivals organized by Deaconess Morag Crawford. Perhaps the most remarkable project was the construction of a life-sized Palestinian house. The entire congregation participated, recreating not only the house but also the culture, with people in traditional attire, artifacts, sheep, goats, and even a camel. This creation toured throughout Scotland, a testament to Drylaw Parish Church’s commitment to education and cultural understanding. In 2002, Drylaw Parish Church celebrated its 50th anniversary with a commemorative flower display and photo exhibition, marking a half-century of community and faith. Drylaw Parish Church hosted a choir for nearly 40 years, 30 under the direction of James Smith. An annual carol concert became a cherished tradition. Drylaw Parish Church stands as more than just bricks and mortar. It represents the heart and soul of a community, built on faith, perseverance, and a shared dream.