Author: The Hampden Collection

James and I leave our hotel on Princes Street and walk 10 minutes into Stockbridge. I hand him a newspaper clipping of 6 December 1870, which contained a letter signed by the Captains of West of Scotland, Edinburgh Academicals, Merchistonian, Glasgow Academicals and St Salvator. I ask James to read out the opening line. “There … Continue reading Chapter 55 – Raeburn Place International →

We stand in George Street. Flanked by Princes Street and Queen Street; marking the original New Town. James explains, "Edinburgh held a competition to design the New Town, which was won by James Craig. Three streets with St Andrew's Square and St George's Square at either end. The latter's name was changed in 1785 and … Continue reading Chapter 54 – New Town Royalty →

Our train travels through Scotland’s lowlands of Bishopbriggs, Lenzie, Croy, Castlecary, Falkirk, Polmont, Linlithgow, Winchburgh, Ratho, Gogar, Costorphine, Haymarket and arrive in Waverley. 2 hours 30 minutes of comfort within our first class carriage. “The Edinburgh & Glasgow Railway opened in 1842, costing £1.2m and is one of Scotland’s great success stories linking our two … Continue reading Chapter 53 – Edinburgh’s Newest Station →

In 1865, I decided to remove an expensive middle man and build our own Print Works on Princes Street. This building is located close to the Etna Foundary on Lillybank Road and Govan’s Chemical, Brick and Gas Works. An early inspection is always a concern for my Site Manager, Alexander Campbell. His sweat is visible … Continue reading Chapter 52 – The Business Junction →

I take out another commission letter and contemplate its contents. I seal in its gilt-edged envelope, which sparkles in the sunshine. I will post it tomorrow. A horde of children are playing football in the Recreation Ground, with goalposts built with old clothes and boundary lines marked by onlooking children. Nearly four years have passed … Continue reading Chapter 51 – The Offside Rule →

My trusted companion Swissy looks up and barks his intent to run. With a shake of my head, he lies down and stares into the park watching everyone’s moves. I look down at the copy of the other letter.  James,  Over the last 10 years you have supported me in admirable ways. You were my … Continue reading Chapter 50 – James Kenneth Hogg →

This afternoon I head to sanctuary and deliberate on my decision. This seat, on the Mount of Queens Park, allows me to reflect on both letters. Robert, We are on an exciting journey and I commend your confidence, creativity and passion to drive our future. The world is changing and we are changing with it. … Continue reading Chapter 49 – Robert Duncan MacLeod →

My eyes open in the darkness in a silent house. I shift quietly out of bed leaving Emelia in her dream world. I change into my Office Livery, including my finest blue suit, favourite pocket watch and bowler hat. As I approach the front door there is a tug of my trousers. I look down … Continue reading Chapter 48 – Two Commercial Commissions →

My carriage crosses London Bridge, which people, livestock and trade have used since Roman times. The old London Bridge was Britain’s first great stone arch bridge and is forever embodied in one of my children’s favourite nursery rhymes. I am glad that it is not falling down today. This latest incarnation is called New London … Continue reading Chapter 46 – Map Maker’s Dream →