Lost in the shadows of Edinburgh’s Old Calton Cemetery stands a poignant monument. The Scottish American War Memorial. It’s a tribute to Scotsmen who fought for the Union in the American Civil War. A bronze Abraham Lincoln towers above a freed slave. The inscription reads To preserve the jewel of liberty in the framework of freedom.
This memorial wasn’t built overnight. Its creation began with a heartbreaking story. Sergeant Major John McEwan a Scotsman who fought bravely for the Union returned home sick and poor. He died and was buried in an unmarked grave. His widow sought a pension from the American Consulate in Edinburgh.
Consul Wallace Bruce and his wife were deeply moved by her plight. They learned about the many other Scots who fought and died far from home. They formed a committee. They raised funds from Americans with Scottish ties. People like Andrew Carnegie contributed.
George E Bissell a sculptor and fellow veteran created this powerful memorial. It was unveiled on August 21 1893. Despite the awful weather a large crowd gathered. Sir William Arrol a prominent engineer gave a moving speech. He spoke of Scotland’s history of fighting for freedom. He praised Lincoln’s commitment to liberty.
The names of six soldiers are etched onto the monument. Sergeant Major John McEwan is among them. His sacrifice spurred this tribute. His story reflects the wider plight of many Scots who fought for a cause they believed in. Their names and regiments are forever preserved in stone.
This isn’t just a statue. It’s a symbol. It represents the enduring bond between Scotland and America. It honors the courage and sacrifice of those who fought for freedom. It also tells of a widow’s grief and a consul’s compassion. A small act of kindness led to this remarkable memorial. The Scottish American War Memorial stands as a testament to their stories. A place to remember the Scots who fought for the Union.