Piercing the sky near the Shore, Leith, stands a stark reminder of a bygone era, the Whaling Harpoon Statue. It stands surrounded by bollards and chain-link fencing. This isn’t just a piece of metal. It’s a symbol of Leith’s deep connection to the whaling industry. This connection evokes complex feelings.
Let’s journey back to the 17th century. In 1616, Leith became a hub for whaling. Brave, or perhaps desperate, sailors set sail for the Arctic. They were armed with harpoons much like this one. They sought whales in the icy waters around Greenland.
Imagine the dangers. Ships risked being crushed by ice. They faced capture by enemy warships. Life was hard and uncertain. Yet, the promise of valuable resources drove them on. Whale oil was a precious commodity. It was used to make margarine and soap. The industry provided materials.
In the early 18th century, Leith built a “boiling house” in the Timber Bush. Here, whale blubber was rendered. This process produced a strong, pungent, oily smell. Locals humorously called it “Woods’ scent bottle”.
Fast forward to 1908. Christian Salvesen & Son launched a new phase of whaling. They sent a fleet from Leith to the Antarctic. They established a whaling station in South Georgia. It was named “Leith Harbour”. By 1911, their fleet was the largest in the world.
The Whaling Harpoon Statue stands as a testament to this history. For many Leithers, whaling provided vital employment. It continued until 1963.
Leith Harbour included a hospital, a library, and even a cinema. Whaling boats brought the first penguins to Edinburgh Zoo. Leith was the first in the world to keep and breed the animals.
Today, we view whaling with distaste. The Whaling Harpoon Statue, however, remains. It is a reminder of Leith’s past. It marks a time when whaling was seen differently. It serves as a reminder of a controversial aspect of Leith’s identity. It prompts reflection on our changing values. It reminds us of the impact of our industries on the natural world.