Scottish Veterans Residences Restore Historic Monument

A stirring ceremony was held in October to rededicate Scottish Veterans Residences’ historic Memorial in Edinburgh’s Eastern Cemetery – unveiled after a successful £40,000 restoration campaign.

The event was led by the city’s Lord Provost Robert Aldridge and Rev Neil Gardner of Canongate Kirk, while a lament was played by Fusilier Peter Clements of 2 Scots, The Royal Regiment of Scotland. The impressive restoration project, completed in time for Remembrance Day, was made possible thanks to donations and grants generated through SVR’s Project Heritage appeal, launched in April to save and preserve the 7 x 2 metre structure.

The memorial marks the burial ground of more than 220 Veterans who lived at Whitefoord House in the years following the charity’s creation in 1910. The ceremony was a poignant opportunity to remember them, their service, and those who have followed them. The sandstone memorial features 11 bronze panels and five intricately carved motifs, all meticulously conserved to protect their historical and cultural significance.

Colin Leslie, Head of External Relations at SVR told New Frontiers: We are delighted to have completed this valuable conservation project within six months of its launch. SVR has a rich and proud history, stretching back 115 years, and it is important that we continue to commemorate and remember those who came to Whitefoord House after they served. “It was heart-warming to see so many residents, former residents, trustees, supporters, and members of the Armed Forces and Veterans community at the ceremony – including members of Scotland’s Veterans Wellbeing Alliance, who have shown great support for the campaign throughout. Our thanks to all who have ensured this project came to fruition.

The delicate restoration involved dismantling the structure, stabilising and treating each bronze plaque, rebuilding the stone wall, and reinstating the plaques with new fixings faithful to the original design. The work ensures this important landmark remains a lasting tribute to those it commemorates and a proud part of the city’s heritage.

As a nice footnote, a group of former Whitefoord residents laid 220 memorial crosses at the newly restored monument, and then held a short ceremony on Armistice Day. While SVR has raised £35,000 towards the restoration project, donations from individuals, grant-makers or corporate supporters, would still be most welcome.

The appeal page remains live and you can donate here