Curious to know where philosopher David Hume rests? You’re standing at the entrance to Old Calton Burial Ground. This historic Edinburgh cemetery offers more than just scenic views. It’s a journey into Scotland’s past.
Old Calton Burial Ground opened in 1718. Villagers from Calton needed a convenient place to bury their dead. Before this, they had to travel to South Leith Parish Church. The Society of the Incorporated Trades of Calton purchased a half-acre of land. They paid Lord Balmerino £1013 for it. This marked the beginning of Old Calton Burial Ground.
As you walk through Old Calton Burial Ground, notice the Martyrs’ Monument. It’s a tall obelisk dedicated to Thomas Muir and other political reformers. These men advocated for universal suffrage. Their actions led to their deportation to Australia in 1793. In 1844, the Friends of Parliamentary Reform honored them with this monument. Its prominent position reflects the graveyard’s non-denominational status.
Don’t miss the Scottish-American Soldiers Monument. Dedicated in 1893, it honors Scots who fought in the American Civil War. A statue of Abraham Lincoln stands with a freed slave at his feet. It’s the only monument to the American Civil War outside the United States. It was the first statue of a US president erected outside US borders.
Old Calton Burial Ground is the final resting place of notable Scots. David Hume’s tomb is a large cylindrical tower. Designed by Robert Adam, it dominates the Edinburgh skyline. Hume requested a simple inscription. It only includes his name, and the years of his birth and death.
Look for the grave of John Haig. He was instrumental in promoting whisky. Haig effectively invented blended whisky. His family business later became United Distillers.
Also buried here is Dr. Robert Candlish. He was a leader of the Disruption of the Scottish Church in 1843. Candlish helped set up the Free Church of Scotland.
Notice the tradesmen’s monuments. Many 18th-century stones feature detailed carvings of the deceased’s occupation. The monument to John Morton is particularly elaborate. He was a heelmaker who died in 1728.
Old Calton Burial Ground was altered when Waterloo Place was built. The road cut through the graveyard. Bodies and stones were respectfully moved to New Calton Burial Ground.
The Society of the Trades of Calton managed Old Calton Burial Ground until 1888. After burials ceased in 1869 the City of Edinburgh Council took over.
Take a moment to appreciate the history. The stories etched in stone offer a glimpse into Edinburgh’s vibrant past. Old Calton Burial Ground is more than just a cemetery. It’s a monument to the people who shaped Scotland’s story.