McEwan Lantern Pillar Statue

“A beacon of gratitude.” That’s one way to describe the McEwan Lantern Pillar. It stands proudly before you, a testament to a man who loved his city. The McEwan Lantern Pillar is more than just a lamppost. It’s a symbol of Victorian generosity and civic pride, presented to Edinburgh in 1897. This ornate pillar wasn’t always here. It was relocated in 2017, but its story begins much earlier. It was a gift from William McEwan, a Member of Parliament and the man behind the famous Fountain Brewery. He also funded the magnificent McEwan Hall which you can see just behind the pillar. The pillar itself is a four-stage carved Portland stone tower. It sits on three convex steps, topped by a tall, ornate cast-iron lantern. Look closely at the base. You’ll see three sides with framed panels depicting mythological scenes and coats of arms. One coat of arms belongs to McEwan, featuring a lion, a wheatsheaf, and an oak tree. The other belongs to the City of Edinburgh, showcasing the castle, an anchor, a maiden, and a hind. Above, floral garlands hang between scrolls. These support a fluted bowl beneath a frieze of dancing cherubs. The pillar is inscribed with a dedication to the city from McEwan. It also bears the mottoes “Reviresco” (I flourish again) and “Nisi Dominus Frustra” (Without the Lord, all is in vain). The McEwan Lantern Pillar is a unique blend of commemorative art and practical urban design. It is a lasting reminder of William McEwan’s contribution to Edinburgh. It serves as a beautiful and functional piece of the city’s history.