By Rory Reynolds
RESIDENTS in Edinburgh are being handed the chance to discover if their home has ever been the site of scandal or infamous crime.
Visitors to the History of My House events will be able to discover if their home was the dwellings of a famous figure, as well as view photographs and documents detailing how the building looked.
The events, being held next week, will also allow visitors to read about old tales from the city, including the famous disappearing turkeys of Heriot Row and the domestic details of author Thomas Carlyle.
And experts from the city’s libraries and Edinburgh World Heritage will guide visitors through the extensive collection of photographs, maps, prints, and books, charting the history of the city’s residents.
Councillor Deidre Brock, culture leader for the City of Edinburgh, said: “Edinburgh’s buildings, both private and public, are positively brimming with history.“This partnership between our Libraries and Edinburgh World Heritage will be invaluable in helping people to discover some fascinating facts and stories about their homes.”
Extensive
The events will be held at the City Chambers archives, as well as Edinburgh Central Library, and special podcasts are to be produced exploring the folklore behind some of the city’s historic buildings.
Adam Wilkinson, director of Edinburgh World Heritage said: “Edinburgh’s World Heritage Site is unusual in being a thriving residential city centre, which means that lots of people have a direct connection with its history.
“The city is also fortunate to have a resource as extensive and accessible as the superb Edinburgh Room in Central Library, with experts on hand to guide people through the collection.
“I hope that the event will turn up many unknown stories, to add to the sum of our knowledge of the World Heritage Site, as well being highly enjoyable.”
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