Honoured by Edinburgh: Beneficiaries of the Freedom of Edinburgh since 1459

Edinburgh's civic authorities have awarded the Freedom of the City to prominent individuals with connections to the city or who have deserved recognition. The choice of honorees has reflected political and social changes over centuries, with awards ranging from leadership in war to bringing rhubarb seeds to Scotland. The book "Honoured by Edinburgh" by Barclay Price highlights interesting recipients throughout history, including two nineteenth-century anti-slavery campaigners.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 96 pages
Publication date: 15 October 2024
Publisher: Amberley Publishing

Edinburgh's civic authorities have bestowed the Freedom of the City upon notable individuals with ties to Edinburgh or those who have earned recognition from the city, granting them an honorary Burgess ticket and admitting them as Burgess and Guild Brothers of the City. The selection of honorees has been solely within the purview of Edinburgh's ruling council, often reflecting the influence of those in power on the city's external perception. Over centuries, political and social changes have been reflected in the honorees, ranging from the Queens barber in 1451 to Harry Lauder in 1927. The reasons for the honor have varied, from leadership in war to introducing rhubarb seeds to Scotland. Some awards have been contentious, while others have been celebrated by large crowds. Presentations have included stirring speeches, while others have encountered mishaps. In Honoured by Edinburgh, author Barclay Price highlights the most intriguing recipients throughout history, many of whom continue to resonate with us today. However, there is also room to rediscover the names of some deserving individuals, including two nineteenth-century anti-slavery campaigners. This book will captivate readers interested in the evolving and sometimes turbulent history of Scotland's capital city.

Weight: 308g
Dimension: 166 x 261 x 12 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781398118010