In the heart of historic Edinburgh stood a remarkable architectural relic known as Bowhead House. Built in the early 1500s, this iconic structure was cherished by locals and considered one of the city's most distinctive remnants of its medieval past. However, in 1878, Bowhead House was demolished as part of modern improvements, prompting widespread mourning among Edinburgh's residents and historians.
Bowhead House: A Glimpse into the Past
- Architectural Features: The house featured an elaborate "inverted pyramid" design, with irregular gables, richly carved facades, and projecting windows that made it a distinctive sight in the old city. Its quaint, timber-framed facade with dovecot gables exemplified the unique style of 16th-century Edinburgh architecture.
- Historical Importance: Bowhead House, located at the corner of West Bow and Lawnmarket, stood as a testament to the city's architectural heritage. Its richly carved gables and intricate details attracted architects and artists alike, who admired its charm and historical significance.
The Scotsman's Tribute
The Scotsman, a prominent Scottish newspaper, lamented the house's demolition in its edition on February 8, 1878, highlighting the building's architectural importance:
“… in a few days, modern improvement will lay its remorseless hand upon the well-known tenement at the corner of West Bow and Lawnmarket. This latter house, whose gables and eaves are richly carved, has long been regarded as a most characteristic relic of old Edinburgh. Its quaint timber-framed facade, irregular dovecot gables, and projecting windows have been a favourite subject of study alike for the architect and artist.”
A Symbol of Old Edinburgh
- Cultural Significance: For locals, Bowhead House represented more than just an architectural relic. It symbolized Edinburgh's medieval past and its rich cultural history. Its demolition marked the end of an era and underscored the relentless march of modernity.
- Legacy: The memory of Bowhead House remains etched in the minds of those who cherished its distinctiveness. Photographs and artistic renderings, like the one above, continue to remind us of this unique piece of Edinburgh's heritage.
The demolition of Bowhead House in 1878 was a poignant moment for the people of Edinburgh. Despite the progress of modernity, the loss of this "inverted pyramid" building left a void in the city's architectural landscape. Today, Bowhead House lives on through historical records, photographs, and the memories of those who understood its significance as one of the last relics of old Edinburgh.
