Transcribing at Peebles

Work towards transcribing all the gravestones in the Borders continues and this coming week-end we shall be back at St. Andrews Churchyard at Peebles.

This is a churchyard which does present quite a challenge to us both because of the number of stones and the age and condition of many. We did make a start on transcribing last year but were very unlucky with the weather. For the moment at least though, things look a lot more settled so hopefully a lot more progress can be made.

We shall be transcribing on both Saturday and Sunday next (20th. and 21st.) from 10.am. to 4.p.m although it is by no means necessary to be there for both days or even for one full day - just a few hours assistance can be very helpful and much appreciated.

Even if you have not been involved in transcribing stones before, do consider joining us, as training is available and we like to think we are all helpful. Please also bring along a notebook and a pencil and also useful a soft brush, chalk, water spray and a kneeling mat.

We encourage members to bring a picnic - a chance to socialise and meet with fellow members. However if preferred - the Neidpath Inn is a few minutes walk back towards the town and does bar lunches. Beyond the Neidpath, Forsyth the Bakers has a shop.... with a Coop store just beyond that ....and beyond that is Rambler's cafe, part of the Castle Warehouse store - window on to the street. ... next If you are looking for something special - just round the corner from Ramblers is Cocoa Black on the Bridge - award winning chocolatiere with cakes and sandwiches as well. Plenty of choice.

There are public toilets at the entrance to the park across the road although fairly basic.

From all routes (except Glasgow!) turn right at the Church at the end of the High Street and follow the main road. The cemetery is on the right hand side opposite the entrance to the Park/medical centre. It is about a 5 minute walk from the end of the High Street.

There is parking at the cemetery entrance and a large car park just beyond it on the right hand side. These gates have been closed recently for maintenance/repair but should now be open. If not access from the St. Andrews Road or Wemyss Place entrances.

While no problems to anyone just turning up if you are going to manage it can be helpful with organizing if you could contact me, Ronald Morrison beforehand on www.bordersfhs.org.uk/BFHSContacts.asp, using the contact type Gravestone Recording. - or telephone 01361 882166

Above is an image of the grave of the family of John Buchan, 1st. Baron Tweedsmuir the renowned Scottish author and later Governor-General of Canada. John Buchan although born in Peebles is not in fact buried in the family grave. He died suddenly in Canada where he was cremated, his ashes later being buried at Elsfield Church near Oxford. The society was recently very pleased to receive a delightful little volume on John Buchan's grave written by David Weekes.