We have recently discovered an historic Edinburgh City signpost from circa the 1930s, in the depths of our underground vaults. The decorative sign proclaims: “Edinburgh the Festival City” and depicts the famous Coat of Arms of the City of Edinburgh Council.
Nigel Hosier, our general manager, recently discovered the remarkable piece whilst archiving some of the material used within our tours which is routinely updated to keep them fresh.
Evidence suggests that the magnificent signpost was placed on the outskirts of Edinburgh to welcome visitors to the world’s leading festival city, but, Nigel comments: “The truth is, we don’t really know very much about it. Some tentative enquiries have been made to the City Council as the vaults were once used by them, but to no avail.”
He adds: “The sign wonderfully illustrates how The Real Mary King’s Close is full of yet undiscovered mysteries about the history of this fantastic city and its people, and how, even at the beginning of the 20th century, before the start of the legendary Edinburgh Festival, its inhabitants had every reason to be proud of what it could offer visitors, just as it does today. We would love anyone who knows anything about the sign to come forward and tell us more.”
If anyone thinks they can enlighten us or have any information about the sign, please contact Nigel Hosier on 0845 070 6244 or email nhosier@realmarykingsclose.com