Funding Boosts Research on Historic Edinburgh Burial Grounds

Edinburgh World Heritage has secured funding to support community involvement and research into Scotland’s graveyards, particularly focusing on the historic sites of Greyfriars Kirkyard and Calton Burial Grounds. Announced on October 31, 2023, the initiative aims to engage volunteers in investigating the rich history of these burial grounds, which are significant to both local heritage and tourism.

Community Engagement and Research Initiatives

The newly launched project, titled Legacies in Stone, will empower community groups to delve into the historical significance of these sites. Specifically, volunteers will examine a 17th-century tomb in Greyfriars Kirkyard to determine whether it contains a burial vault. This effort is part of a broader commitment to enhance community stewardship and appreciation of Scotland’s funerary heritage.

Funding for the project comes from the National Lottery Heritage Fund, recognized as the largest supporter of heritage initiatives in the UK. Terry Levinthal, director of Edinburgh World Heritage, expressed enthusiasm about the grant, stating, “I am delighted that the National Lottery Heritage Fund has acknowledged the importance of community-based heritage engagement through its funding of Legacies in Stone.”

The funding will not only support conservation and research at Greyfriars Kirkyard and Calton Burial Grounds but also facilitate collaboration among various conservation groups focused on historical graveyards across Scotland.

Historical Significance of the Burial Grounds

Greyfriars Kirkyard, one of Edinburgh’s most renowned burial sites, has welcomed countless visitors annually. Established in 1652 by Mary Queen of Scots, the graveyard has since become the final resting place for approximately 200,000 individuals over the centuries. Understanding their histories offers valuable insights into Edinburgh’s past.

The Calton Burial Grounds, located on Waterloo Place, opened its doors in 1718 and is home to several notable figures, including philosopher David Hume and writer Robert Louis Stevenson. Together, these sites not only serve as important historical landmarks but also reflect the cultural fabric of Edinburgh.

Dr. Susan Buckham, the graveyards project manager at EWH, noted, “Historic graveyards thrive when communities care for them. They are vital spaces for wellbeing and reflection on the human experience.”

The partnership between EWH and local groups has fostered a collaborative environment, with Mark Hatton, chair of the Friends of Greyfriars Kirkyard, highlighting the positive relationship established since 2020. “The key outcomes have been designed to match our current priorities and interests in the Kirkyard, as well as future organizational needs,” he stated.

As the Legacies in Stone project unfolds, it promises to enhance not only the preservation efforts of these historic burial grounds but also strengthen community ties through shared heritage and collective stewardship.