In 1811

In 1811, following the setting up of the Edinburgh Astronomical Institution, it was decided to construct a small building which would house a transit telescope.

Due to damage caused by vandals over the years the roof has been repaired and the aperture allowing the light from the stars to reach the transit telescope no longer exists.

A clock stood in the transit house window. The time piece was known as the ‘Politician’s Clock’ due to the fact that it was fitted with two dials so that mariners and people from the town could set their chronometers and watches by looking in the window, while the astronomer checked the time from the rear.

The historic clock which can still be seen inside the City Observatory was  maintained by James Ritchie & Son and remained in service until the time-ball was set up on the Nelson Monument in 1853. Check out: timeheritage.co.uk for further details.

Photograph courtesy of Bruce Vickery.