Note

Date 14 November 2017

Event ID 1046421

Category Descriptive Accounts

Type Note

Permalink http://canmore.org.uk/event/1046421

A collection of metalwork (mainly cast-iron) components associated with historic fireplaces have long been stored within Edinburgh Castle’s vaults. These had been removed from various parts of the castle during works over the preceding 50 years or so. The project was intended to provide a catalogue and assessment of these items, in part to inform decision-making in relation to their retention or disposal. The work was carried out in December 2017.

The components were found to be the partial remnants of a number of individual fireplaces, with numerous associated elements such as grates, etc. The earliest of these include a later 18th- or early 19th-century hob-grate as well as a 19th-century kitchen range and 19th-century insert fireplaces; however, the bulk of the items were of fireplaces of likely early 20th-century date.

The fireplace elements to be catalogued were stored in a vaulted chamber within Edinburgh Castle, mostly stacked on wooden pallets on the ground with a few loose parts in a pile. Each element was separated, laid out on the floor and individually photographed - front and rear and any significant details. Each photograph included a 0.50m scale and a photo board in frame with the site name, date and element ID number clearly marked. Basic measurements of each element were made as well as a written record of any identifying makers or model markings.

OASIS ID: addymana1-302937

Kenny Macfadyen - Addyman Archaeology

Archive: NRHE (intended)

Funder: Historic Environment Scotland

(Source: DES Vol 20)