Comments for Writing from Scotland

Comment on The Short Mile by oldblack

oldblack — Wed, 22 May 2013 23:52:20 +0000

Very interesting, Christine, thanks. That council brochure you linked to is excellent. Being Australian, the concept of having remnants of the 16th century still visible in the main street is completely foreign to me! We think it's a great historical feat to preserve something that dates back to the Victorian era!! (Our 16th century residents didn't leave much sign of their inhabitation). But as usual, for me your post provokes other questions . . . is that your bike in front of The Short Mile (were you really riding the marches?); and, more importantly, what does the prominent "Free House" sign in the pub doorway mean (I have never been to the UK....the answer may be "obvious" to a local)?

Comment on The Short Mile by grayseasaylor

grayseasaylor — Wed, 22 May 2013 20:56:45 +0000

I too, had heard of riding the marches, but did not understand the allusion. Thanks for the illuminating post, Christine It is great that you are enjoying Aberdeen to the fullest before you move away from it!
Gracie xx

Comment on The Short Mile by J2Scotland

J2Scotland — Wed, 22 May 2013 20:46:41 +0000

great write-up on the stones, Christine. I also had heard about riding the marches but had no idea what that was. I find it interesting how often stones are used to mark something important …. it reminds me of the standing stones I saw on Arran. I like the name of the pub too; someone had a sense of humor.

Comment on The Short Mile by Karen

Karen — Wed, 22 May 2013 20:31:43 +0000

A very curious and interesting bit of history, Christine! Stones seem to be the universal markers for every country. Here in our tiny town, we have a stone tower commemorating some early pioneers killed by Indians. I love the pub’s name. xx

Comment on The Short Mile by Flora Alexander

Flora Alexander — Wed, 22 May 2013 19:29:42 +0000

I lived all those years in Aberdeen and I never knew about this. It’s fascinating – thankyou very much. And I do remember people speaking about Mrs Murray’s Cat and Dog Home, though I never had occasion to go there myself.

Comment on The Short Mile by Martin

Martin — Wed, 22 May 2013 18:36:37 +0000

Well, I’ve learnt something today, Christine. I’ll be keeping my eyes open from now on.

Comment on The Short Mile by Jill Chandler

Jill Chandler — Wed, 22 May 2013 16:25:47 +0000

How interesting. A bit more knowledge I have gained. I had heard about riding the marches, but didnt know stones were involved.

Comment on The Short Mile by Ellen @ the Bluestocking Belle

Ellen @ the Bluestocking Belle — Wed, 22 May 2013 15:03:10 +0000

I always love your posts like this (well, I love all your posts, really) that give me both a taste of history and cultural glimpses.

Comment on The Short Mile by lucindalines

lucindalines — Wed, 22 May 2013 13:51:24 +0000

Nice history. Also great to know the other definition of march.

Comment on The Short Mile by tearoomdelights

tearoomdelights — Wed, 22 May 2013 08:26:34 +0000

What a great little post! I had no idea these stones even existed, what a wonderful piece of history. The pub name is inspired!