World pipe band champion...
 World pipe band champion Jennifer S. R. Hutcheon will be playing the annual lament to the world famous dog during Greyfriars Bobby Commemoration Day as Pipe Major Bob Anderson is no longer able to play due to an operation on his hand.
The composer of a ‘Tribute to Greyfriars Bobby’ Jennifer will be playing the jaunty pipe tune during the event.
Jennifer has an artillery connection as her grandfather Sgt. James High Spence of the Royal Garrison Artillery was killed in action at Flanders on 7th July 1917 during the First World War.
Dog lovers wishing to attend Greyfriars Bobby Commemoration Day on 14th January should telephone the Central Library, Edinburgh on 0131 242 8000 or email: libraries@edinburgh.gov.uk for further details.
This week’s photo shows Jennifer after winning the World Pipe Band Championships Banner and Trophies when she was playing with Shotts and Dykehead Pipe Band.
Photo credit: Bob Lawson
added 22-Dec-12 09:40
Bruce Vickery gave a...
 Bruce Vickery gave a first class presentation on the life and work of Thomas Henderson the first Astronomer Royal for Scotland at the Central Library, George IV Bridge, Edinburgh last Wednesday.
A reporter for ‘The Scotsman’ was in the audience.
A member of the Astronomical Society of Edinburgh and the Calton Stakeholders Committee, Bruce has spent the last two years in the Royal Observatory’s library researching the history of the observatory on the Calton Hill.
Work is now underway to bring the building back to it’s former glory and it’s hoped that the observatory which houses the transit telescope used by the astronomers to calculate the time sent electrically to the time ball and the One o’Clock Gun will be open to the public.
Photo credit: Bruce Vickery
added 10-Dec-12 14:08
We’re grateful to Bob Lawson...
 We’re grateful to Bob Lawson for bringing our attention to the Watchman of Ystad who blows his copper horn to signal the time from 21.15 to 01.00 nightly from the tower of St:a Maria Church.
A single note is blown every fifteen minutes, to each of the town's four cardinal points to assure the citizens that ‘All’s well’.
Although the tradition dates back many hundreds of years, no one knows exactly when the signal originated. It is known that a Watchman worked in the town during the 17th century when the present church tower was built.
Originally the Watchman’s job was to warn the townspeople of invasion by land or sea or report fires by blowing his horn.
He now telephones the emergency services should a problem occur.
For further details check out: http://www.ystad.se/ystadweb.nsf/AllDocuments/93D3FFAF2F86FEE5C12573090028F667 Photo credit: Ystad Tourist information centre.
added 18-Nov-12 18:10
Although Greyfriars Church Visitor Centre...
 Although Greyfriars Church Visitor Centre is now closed for the winter, visitors to the capital will be able to look round the historic graveyard.
Before it closed, in addition to the U.K, visitors from the U.S.A, Russia, the Netherlands and Japan stopped in to see and admire John MacLeod's outstanding painting of Greyfriars Bobby.
Maria Furbelli’s new book featuring the world famous dog is now available.
Maria met Bombardier Allison Jones the relief gunner at Edinburgh Castle when she visited the capital to carry out research on the people and places connected with the terrier.
Although Maria planned to return to Scotland later in the year, ill health prevented her from doing so, but she’s now feeling fine.
Further details of the first Greyfriars Bobby book to be aimed at the Italian market can be found on: www.lafeltrinelli.it/products/.../Bobby.../Furbelli_Rosa_Maria.html
added 08-Nov-12 19:16
 A new planet has been discovered...
A new planet has been discovered in the proximity of Alpha Centauri.
added 31-Oct-12 12:43
 John Mylne...
John Mylne Edinburgh’s principal master mason was born in Perth in 1611.
added 16-Oct-12 08:03
 Thanks to the internet...
Thanks to the internet, the work of the electrical genius Alexander Bain is now rapidly being acknowledged all over the world.
added 11-Oct-12 08:25
 Sunday 7th October...
Sunday 7th October marks the anniversary of the proposal to set up the capital’s One o’Clock Gun which was put to the directors of the Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce by James Hewat a local businessman in 1858.
added 02-Oct-12 13:19
 Although the weather...
Although the weather turned out to be wet and windy, the meeting to discuss the future of the One o’Clock Gun & Time Ball Association at Leith Community Education Centre was fairly well attended.
added 27-Sep-12 08:41
 An open meeting will be held...
added 19-Sep-12 17:44
 Donald Wilson the Lord Provost...
Donald Wilson the Lord Provost of the City of Edinburgh is very much aware of the importance of the city’s traditions, especially the history of the One o’clock Gun and the time ball on the Nelson Monument as his wide spread interests include computing and the mathematical sciences.
added 10-Sep-12 08:29
 We’re sorry to report...
We’re sorry to report that Bombardier Blue the mascot of the One o’Clock Gun & Time Ball Association is no longer with us.
added 06-Sep-12 09:19
 An exhibition on the work of...
An exhibition on the work of architect William Henry Playfair is now running at Riddle’s Court, 322 Lawnmarket, Edinburgh.
added 06-Sep-12 09:08
 We are indebted to Jim Hunter...
added 28-Aug-12 11:01
 ‘Steam-Powered Knowledge...
added 23-Aug-12 14:39
 The Edinburgh International Book Festival...
The Edinburgh International Book Festival is now running in Charlotte Square garden at the west end of Edinburgh.
added 15-Aug-12 10:46
 Book lovers visiting the Festival...
Book lovers visiting the Festival should check out Edinburgh Books, 145 West Port.
added 09-Aug-12 09:02
 The timing of the ceremony...
The timing of the ceremony to mark the 150th anniversary of the death of Master Gunner Findlay by the Royal Artillery Association, the One o’Clock Gun & Time Ball Association and the Scottish Military Heritage Centre project members went like clockwork.
added 27-Jul-12 13:55
 Wednesday 18th July...
added 17-Jul-12 11:38
The talk given by Dava Sobel...
added 09-Jul-12 12:53
 John Bodsworth’s...
John Bodsworth’s Royal Regiment of Scotland display is still running at Ocean Terminal, Leith.
added 04-Jul-12 10:32
 The Greyfriars Bobby Bar...
added 26-Jun-12 11:59
 A display of military uniforms...
A display of military uniforms has been set up at the Ocean Terminal, Ocean Drive, Leith to publicise the Leith Festival and the Scottish Military Heritage Centre project.
added 10-Jun-12 21:06
 Dava Sobel...
Dava Sobel the author of ‘Longitude’and Dr John C Taylor, creator of the Midsummer Chronophage will discuss how their work was inspired by clock maker John Harrison with Professor John C Brown, Astronomer Royal for Scotland.
added 03-Jun-12 18:31
 2012 marks the 100th anniversary...
2012 marks the 100th anniversary of the publication of Eleanor Atkinson’s classic novel ‘Greyfriars Bobby’.
added 24-May-12 10:00
 We are sorry to report...
added 14-May-12 07:25
 Death of James Grant...
Saturday 5th May marks the anniversary of the death of James Grant.
added 04-May-12 13:20
 The work to rig the cable...
The work to rig the cable connecting the Royal Observatory’s master clock and the time-gun clock standing on the Half Moon Battery began shortly after four o’ clock in the morning on 22nd April 1861.
added 23-Apr-12 09:07
 Sunday, April 15th...
added 12-Apr-12 21:44
 The Scottish Military Heritage Centre...
added 22-Mar-12 10:57
 The Edinburgh Town Guard...
The Edinburgh Town Guard is to be re-raised by the members of the Prestonpans Battle Society.
added 15-Mar-12 19:18
 Hong Kong time-ball...
This week’s photograph taken by Andrew Brown shows the Hong Kong time-ball.
added 08-Mar-12 09:18
 The third in the new series...
The third in the new series of ‘Unicorn Talks’ takes place on Monday 5th March, on board HM Frigate Unicorn, Dundee when Rear Admiral Roger Lockwood, Chief Executive of the Northern Lighthouse Board will give an illustrated talk on Scottish Lighthouses.
added 29-Feb-12 10:16
 When Sergeant Shannon...
added 21-Feb-12 21:59
 This week’s photograph...
added 13-Feb-12 08:22
 From 1896...
From 1896, the master clock in the Royal Observatory on the Blackford Hill, Edinburgh supplied the time signal to the One o’ Clock Gun.
added 06-Feb-12 08:38
Founded in 1924,...
Founded in 1924, the Astronomical Society of Edinburgh began holding meetings in the City Observatory in 1953.
added 30-Jan-12 08:11
 The trial to find...
The trial to find a suitable place to set up the One o’clock Gun took place at the end of January 1861.
added 24-Jan-12 11:32
 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.
added 16-Jan-12 15:54
 2011 proved to be another very good year...
added 09-Jan-12 07:38
 The presentation...
The presentation of the prizes to the winners of the One o’ Clock Gun Children’s Painting Competition went like clockwork.
added 02-Jan-12 09:39
 The festive season...
added 19-Dec-11 22:06
 Edinburgh World Heritage...
Edinburgh World Heritage has moved to Acheson House in the Canongate.
added 13-Dec-11 10:29
Hundreds of entries...
Hundreds of entries were received for the One o’ Clock Gun Children’s Painting Competition.
added 06-Dec-11 09:41
 Inchkeith island...
This week’s illustration taken from James Grant's ‘Old and New Edinburgh' shows the island of Inchkeith which lies in the Firth of Forth.
added 28-Nov-11 22:03
 Hundreds of entries...
Hundreds of entries were received for the One o’ Clock Gun Childrens’ Painting Competition organised to mark the 150th anniversary of the setting up of the world's most famous time gun.
added 21-Nov-11 20:30
 Saturday 19th November...
Saturday 19th November marks the anniversary of the death of the landscape artist Sam Bough who painted the first Royal Scottish Volunteer Review.
added 14-Nov-11 12:11
 The event to mark the 25th anniversary...
The event to mark the 25th anniversary of the formation of 105th Regt RA. (V) was a great success.
added 07-Nov-11 15:51
 Mark Owens of the Army Press Department shows...
This week’s photograph taken by Mark Owens of the Army Press Department shows the frame containing photographs of the re-enactment of the first firing of the One o’ Clock Gun.
added 31-Oct-11 12:27
 Palacio da Pena at Sintra...
This week’s photograph taken by Edinburgh Castle steward Graeme Magee shows the time-gun and sundial which stand on the Queen’s Terrace in the Palacio da Pena at Sintra, Portugal.
added 24-Oct-11 08:56
 Maria Furbelli with Bombardier Allison Jones...
This week’s photograph shows Maria Furbelli with Bombardier Allison Jones 105th Regt. RA (V) on the Mills Mount Battery.
added 17-Oct-11 21:19
 Edinburgh City Council...
Edinburgh City Council plan to illuminate the capital’s skyline.
added 13-Oct-11 09:08
 City Observatory’s transit telescope...
This week’s photograph taken by Bruce Vickery shows the City Observatory’s transit telescope which stands in the City Observatory’s east wing.
added 02-Oct-11 15:26
 Doors Open Day...
Doors Open Day at the City Observatory, Calton Hill, Edinburgh was a great success.
added 26-Sep-11 10:32
 Jim Pritchitt...
This week’s photograph shows Jim Pritchitt a direct descendant of Chief Master Gunner Findlay with Greg Bond, a National Parks & Wildlife guide who fires the Sydney one o’clock gun.
added 18-Sep-11 18:25
 The Association members...
The Association members were invited to visit Otterburn Training Area by Colonel Huthwaite the Commanding Officer of 105th Regt RA (V) last Thursday.
added 12-Sep-11 20:59
 The City Observatory...
The City Observatory on the Calton Hill, Edinburgh will be opened to the public on 24th and 25th September.
added 06-Sep-11 10:00
 Saturday 3rd September...
Saturday 3rd September marks the anniversary of the first firing of the Dundee One o’Clock Gun.
added 29-Aug-11 19:50
 Generous donation...
The One o’Clock Gun & Time Ball Association has received a generous donation from Regimental Command Group in recognition of the members' exceptional work over the last year and to ensure that the organisation remains financially viable.
added 21-Aug-11 21:11
 A great success...
Floral Clock Day proved to be a great success. The Association’s Chairman Brian McKenzie and Bombardier Blue led by Pipe Major Anderson and escorted by Derek Cooney, John Lovie and Richard Skeldon walked from the Scots Greys Memorial to the Floral Clock to the sound of the pipes.
added 14-Aug-11 21:01
 Floral Clock Day takes place on Tuesday...
Floral Clock Day takes place on Tuesday. The mechanism for the clock installed inside the Allan Ramsay statue in 1903, was manufactured by James Ritchie & Son with parts taken from Elie Church tower clock in Fife.
added 07-Aug-11 09:54
 The Floral Clock...
The Floral Clock in West Princes Street Gardens is now in full bloom.
added 31-Jul-11 20:05
 Jan Bondeson's new book...
Jan Bondeson’s new book ‘Greyfriars Bobby The Most Faithful Dog In The World’ mentions the connection between the world famous dog and the One o’ Clock Gun.
added 24-Jul-11 19:02
 Death of Chief Master Gunner Findlay...
Monday, 18th July marks the anniversary of the death of Chief Master Gunner Findlay.
added 17-Jul-11 09:40
 Back firing the One o' Clock Gun...
Bombardier Allison Jones is back firing the One o’ Clock Gun at Edinburgh Castle as Sergeant Shannon the District Gunner is on leave.
added 10-Jul-11 15:54
 Last week the...
Last week the Edinburgh ‘Evening News’ announced that the Calton Hill observatory is to become a year-round arts venue, open to the public on a permanent basis for the first time.
added 04-Jul-11 09:18
 Association member Bruce Vickery...
added 29-Jun-11 15:47
 TV presenter Lorraine Kelly arrived...
TV presenter Lorraine Kelly arrived by helicopter on the Calton Hill to advertise Armed Forces Day on Friday, 17th June.
added 19-Jun-11 11:52
 Unlike the first official firing...
Unlike the first official firing of the One o’ Clock Gun 150 years ago, the re-enactment last Saturday went like clockwork.
added 13-Jun-11 10:59
 Tuesday 7th June...
Tuesday 7th June marks the 150th anniversary of the first official firing of the One o’ Clock Gun.
added 07-Jun-11 08:09
 On 1st June 1861...
On 1st June 1861, approximately 300 cards were sent from the Chamber of Commerce of the City of Edinburgh inviting distinguished guests to witness the first official firing of the One o’ Clock Gun.
added 30-May-11 10:55
 The following report appeared...
The following report appeared in the Caledonian Mercury on 8th December 1858.
added 23-May-11 10:05
 Gunner David Henderson...
This week’s photograph shows former Gunner David Henderson standing beside the Dundee time-gun.
added 19-May-11 13:11
.jpg) Artillery House, Colinton Edinburgh...
This week’s photograph taken by John Lovie shows District Gunner Sergeant Shannon and the One o’ Clock Gun & Time Ball Association’s Chairman Brian McKenzie on the parade ground at Artillery House, Colinton Edinburgh.
added 11-May-11 12:12
 Firepower Museum...
The records maintained at the Firepower Museum, Woolwich, London contain data, photographs and film of the Royal Artillery's history until 1990.
added 26-Apr-11 08:43
 One hundred and fifty years ago...
One hundred and fifty years ago on 23rd April, a team of merchant seamen began rigging the cable linking the One o’ Clock Gun with the time-ball on the Nelson Monument.
added 17-Apr-11 21:01
 Coastguard Station at North Berwick...
A plan has been put forward to convert the Coastguard Station at North Berwick, East Lothian into a take-away.
Built in 1857, the historic building still stands on the Anchor Green. A volunteer company operated the rocket apparatus used to fire a rescue line from the shore across the bows of a stricken vessel.
added 03-Apr-11 10:57
 Dorothy Marsh...
Dorothy Marsh the Senior Conservation Officer for the City of Edinburgh will be taking early retirement at the end of this week.
added 29-Mar-11 09:07
 Thursday marks the anniversary of the death of Jessica Piazzi Smyth...
Thursday marks the anniversary of the death of Jessica Piazzi Smyth. As Jessie had a scientific background being an amateur geologist, she must have been a great help to her husband during the setting up of the time-ball on the Nelson Monument.
added 20-Mar-11 20:28
 Lyttelton time-ball station...
We’ve received an e-mail from Jan Titus the station manager at the Lyttelton time-ball station.
added 14-Mar-11 08:56
 Thursday marks the anniversary...
Thursday marks the anniversary of the formation of the 1st Midlothian Coast Artillery Volunteers. During 1860, six batteries were raised at Leith, plus a battery at Portobello and a battery at Musselburgh.
added 09-Mar-11 08:38
 Richard Gardner...
Richard Gardner a volunteer at the Naval Historical Society of Australia sent us this week’s photograph for identification.
added 03-Mar-11 16:45
 Monday 21st February...
Monday 21st February marks the anniversary of the death of Professor Charles Piazzi Smyth.
added 21-Feb-11 12:50
 Captain Del Tickner...
Captain Del Tickner the Quartermaster of 105th Regt. R.A. (V.) has undertaken to build a replica of the clock which fired the One o’ Clock Gun in 1861.
added 14-Feb-11 08:19
 The ‘Maudslay time-balls’ talk...
The ‘Maudslay time-balls’ talk by Dr. Roger Kinns MASc PhD was well received by the members of the Astronomical Society of Edinburgh last Friday evening.
added 08-Feb-11 08:46
 Colonel Huthwaite invited...
Colonel Huthwaite invited Brian McKenzie, John Lovie, John Bodsworth and George Robinson to attend the Battle Group Firm Base Working Group meeting held at Artillery House, Colinton last Thursday.
added 31-Jan-11 15:34
 The historic signal was fired...
Wednesday marks the anniversary of the One o’ Clock Gun being fired experimentally for the first time to find out which size of garrison gun could be best adapted to convey the time signal over a wide area.
added 24-Jan-11 12:37
 Greyfriars Bobby Memorial Day...
Greyfriars Bobby Memorial Day, the first of the events to mark the 150th anniversary of the setting up of the One o’ Clock Gun went like clockwork, thanks to the ground plan prepared by 105th Regiment R.A. (Volunteers).
added 19-Jan-11 20:12
 Mark Lazarowicz MP for Leith...
Mark Lazarowicz MP for Leith will be attending Greyfriars Bobby Memorial Day on January 14th.
added 12-Jan-11 11:53
 The cadets...
The cadets from George Heriot’s School will be on parade on Greyfriars Bobby Day.
added 05-Jan-11 10:52
 2010 proved another good year...
added 28-Dec-10 14:39
 Thomas Binning was born in 1620...
Thomas Binning was born in 1620. At the age of nineteen, he took part in the Battle of the Downs.
added 21-Dec-10 09:33
 Heavy fall of snow...
Although Edinburgh was hit by a heavy fall of snow last week, the One o’ Clock Gun continued to fire bang on time.
added 14-Dec-10 21:02
 Edward McCarthy...
Edward McCarthy who served as District Gunner from 1968 to 1972 died peacefully at his home on Monday night.
added 08-Dec-10 09:09
 The Lord Provost...
added 06-Dec-10 17:21
 The new time ball...
The new time ball on the Nelson Monument which was set up by Laing’s Foundry, Edinburgh weighs 205 kg.
added 29-Nov-10 08:53
 The relatives of Sergeant Tom McKay M.B.E....
The relatives of Sergeant Tom McKay M.B.E. were presented with a caricature of the District Gunner at The Chanter, Bread Street, Edinburgh on Wednesday.
added 23-Nov-10 08:48
 The firing of the One o' Clock Gun...
The firing of the One o' Clock Gun on Wednesday, 10th November announced the commencement of two ceremonies on either side of the Atlantic.
added 13-Nov-10 17:49
 The ceremony organised...
The ceremony organised by the One o’ Clock Gun & Time Ball Association and the Edinburgh / San Diego Sister City Association to mark the death of the San Diego dog takes place this Wednesday, 10th November.
added 06-Nov-10 10:27
 Nanaimo Bastion...
This week’s photograph shows one of the two guns standing on the Nanaimo Bastion. The guns are fired at noon every day during the summer to welcome visitors to the City of Nanaimo, British Columbia, Canada.
added 01-Nov-10 08:33
 The signal sent...
The signal sent to the British fleet at Trafalgar flew from the Nelson Monument last Thursday to commemorate the date of the epic battle.
added 25-Oct-10 09:35
 The Lord Provost...
The Lord Provost of the City of Edinburgh will be attending the ceremony for Bum on 10th November. The event will take place at the San Diego dog’s statue in West Princes Street Gardens, Edinburgh after the District Gunner, Sergeant Shannon fires the One o’ Clock Gun.
added 17-Oct-10 14:51
 Lt- Colonel Huthwaite the commanding officer...
Lt- Colonel Huthwaite the commanding officer of 105th Regiment R.A. (V.) not only dropped the Nelson Monument time ball as Sergeant Shannon the District Gunner fired the One o’ Clock gun last Friday, he also wound it up.
added 14-Oct-10 11:38
 Blue promoted...
Blue Lovie the Association’s mascot has now been promoted to bombardier.
added 05-Oct-10 10:58
 Charitable funding status....
The One o’ Clock Gun & Time Ball Association has been awarded charitable funding status.
added 26-Sep-10 19:32
 A meeting of the steering committee...
A meeting of the steering committee of the Scottish Military Heritage Centre project will take place at the Claremont Inn, Polmont, Falkirk at 2.00 pm on Saturday 18th.
added 14-Sep-10 12:49
 The Association’s history of the One o' Clock Gun...
The Association’s history of the One o' Clock Gun has been updated and now has a new cover created by graphic designer Melanie Wright.
added 08-Sep-10 09:53
 Bombardier Allison Jones is presently on duty ...
added 31-Aug-10 21:36
 This week's photograph shows ...
This week's photograph shows former Gunner David Henderson who fired the One o’ Clock Gun when he served with 278th (Lowland) Field Regiment R.A. (T.A.) Davie was a boy musician.
added 25-Aug-10 22:52
 The photograph sent in by ex-gunner...
added 16-Aug-10 09:46
 James Findlay died last week....
James Findlay died last week. James was an enthusiastic supporter of the One o’ Clock Gun & Time Ball Association’s activities.
added 10-Aug-10 11:19
 The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo...
The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo starts on Friday. This is the Tattoo’s Diamond Jubilee Year.
added 04-Aug-10 13:09
 Tuesday 27th July...
Tuesday 27th July marks the anniversary of the Battle of Maiwand.
added 27-Jul-10 08:20
 The Parks Department...
The Parks Department of Edinburgh City Council has approved the Association’s proposal to hold a Floral Clock Day on 10th June 2011.
added 19-Jul-10 13:12
 This week’s photograph shows Battery Quartermaster Sgt.’ Dixie’ Deans...
This week’s photograph shows Battery Quartermaster Sgt.’ Dixie’ Deans who maintained the One o’ Clock Gun from 1972-1979.
added 13-Jul-10 09:42
 In 1841 several naval officers...
In 1841 several naval officers including Admiral Milne, Captain Basil Hall and Captain Dall campaigned for a time ball to be set up on the Calton Hill which would supply the time to captains of ships in the Firth of Forth.
added 07-Jul-10 08:32
 Richard Maudslay the great, great grandson...
Richard Maudslay the great, great grandson of the founder of Maudslay, Sons & Field dropped the Nelson Monument time ball last Saturday.
added 28-Jun-10 09:06
 Richard Maudslay a direct descendant...
Richard Maudslay a direct descendant of Henry Maudslay the founder of the engineering company which manufactured the lifting mechanism for the Nelson Monument time ball and the trustees of the Maudslay Society will be visiting Edinburgh on Saturday, 26th June.
added 21-Jun-10 08:46
 In September 1779 a U.S. naval squadron...
In September 1779 a U.S. naval squadron consisting of seven ships under the command of John Paul Jones sailed up the Firth of Forth heading for the port of Leith
added 15-Jun-10 12:54
 Despite the dreich weather...
Despite the dreich weather the unveiling ceremony at number six Brunton Place took place bang on time.
added 09-Jun-10 08:54
 The unveiling takes place on Monday 7th June...
The unveiling of the plaque to commemorate Frederick James Ritchie takes place on Monday 7th June at one o’ clock.
added 02-Jun-10 08:45
 This week’s photograph shows...
This week’s photograph shows Kit Lovie our catering manager struggling with Blue the Association’s mascot.
added 24-May-10 09:05
 The 21 gun salute signalling...
The 21 gun salute signalling that the Lord High Commissioner to the General Assembly of the Church of Scotland is leaving Holyroodhouse for the Assembly Hall takes place on Thursday 20th May.
added 17-May-10 11:25
 The 3rd Rifles...
The 3rd Rifles, a company of the 4th Rifles and B Company of the 1st Battalion of the Royal Regiment of Scotland marched from Johnston Terrace down the Royal Mile to Holyroodhouse on Saturday 8th May to mark their return from a six-month tour of duty in Afghanistan.
added 10-May-10 11:29
 The Battle of Prestonpans...
Archaeologists have discovered that the Battle of Prestonpans took place further to the east than the battle lines drawn on maps of the time indicate.
added 02-May-10 07:30
 Exhibition was opened at Prestonpans Library...
The Association’s ‘Colour Sergeant Scott & Greyfriars Bobby’ exhibition was opened at Prestonpans Library, East Lothian by Iain Gray MSP last Saturday.
added 28-Apr-10 14:17
 The Association has been invited...
The Association has been invited by Ian Anderson, managing director of James Ritchie & Son (Watch & Clockmakers) to set up an exhibition on the city’s time system at the firm’s premises at 35a Dundas Street.
added 19-Apr-10 10:25
 Cameron’s Penny Guides ...
Cameron’s Penny Guides could be purchased at railway bookstalls and newsagents.
In Cameron’s guide to Edinburgh Castle for 1892, the section on the Half Moon Battery states: ‘The guns by which it is fortified are only 18 pounders, and they are used for firing Royal and other salutes.
added 11-Apr-10 19:59
 The Boys’ Brigade ‘Badges of the Brigade’...
Vol. One: The Boys’ Brigade ‘Badges of the Brigade’ is packed with photographs and information on the history of the B.B.’s. Written by Rob Bolton, Les Howie and Bob Mandry the large format book is an encyclopaedia on the organisation founded in the 1880’s.
added 08-Apr-10 10:13
 Michael Connarty MP who opened...
Michael Connarty MP who opened the ‘Colour Sergeant Scott & Greyfriars Bobby’ exhibition at Linlithgow Library last Saturday is not only a historian, but a fan of Eleanor Atkinson’s novel featuring the world famous dog.
added 29-Mar-10 11:17
Robert Louis Stevenson was born...
As Robert Louis Stevenson was born and brought up in the New Town area of Edinburgh, he would have been able to check his pocket watch when the One o’ Clock Gun fired from the Half Moon Battery.
added 22-Mar-10 08:27
 Musket balls have been discovered ...
Musket balls have been discovered by archaeologists at Fairmilehead, Edinburgh which may prove that a Roundhead camp had been set up in a field close to Frogston Road during the 17th century.
added 14-Mar-10 20:27
 Tuesday 9th March ...
Tuesday 9th March marks the anniversary of the death of Pat of the Seaforths. Pat would have been familiar with the sound of the One o’ Clock Gun as the Seaforths were stationed at Edinburgh Castle in the 1880’s.
added 07-Mar-10 15:18
 Exhibition is now running at Whitburn Library...
The Association’s ‘Colour Sergeant & Greyfriars Bobby’ exhibition is now running at Whitburn Library, West Lothian.
added 01-Mar-10 12:39
 A preservation company ...
A preservation company is presently working to restore the artillery carriages at Warrnambool, Australia.
The guns at Warrnambool, Moyne and Glenelg dating back to 1866 represent the largest collection of artillery pieces contained in a defensive network outside Australia’s major colonial ports and are now recognised as a national asset.
added 21-Feb-10 15:40
 Sunday 21st February...
Sunday 21st February marks the 110th anniversary of the death of Professor Charles Piazzi Smyth who worked with Frederick James Ritchie and Chief Master Gunner Findlay to set up of the One o’ Clock Gun.
added 13-Feb-10 16:52
 Rob Bolton and Les Howie’s new book ...
Rob Bolton and Les Howie’s new bookRob Bolton and Les Howie’s new book ‘Wilder than Panthers and as ignorant as the Heathens’ is well worth getting.
In addition to explaining how the juvenile Shoe-Blacks, Industrial Brigades and Training Ships crews were formed, it tells how the cadet units which led to the formation of the Boys’ Brigade originated.
added 07-Feb-10 22:13
 The first ceremonial salute...
The first ceremonial salute of the year to mark the anniversary of the accession of HM The Queen takes place on Saturday, 6th February.
The salute to mark the Coronation was fired by 278 (Lowland) Field Regiment (TA) on 3rd June 1953 from the Half Moon Battery.
added 31-Jan-10 10:13
 In 2002 William E. Irwin...
In 2002 William E. Irwin sent the Association biographical information on his great grandfather Master Gunner Thomas James Irwin.
added 23-Jan-10 09:54
 Due to the cold weather...
Due to the cold weather fewer people turned up at Greyfriars Bobby’s memorial ceremony than expected. The Association’s Chairman Brian McKenzie said a few words on the close connection between the world famous dog and Colour Sergeant Scott.
added 18-Jan-10 13:31
 Greyfriars Bobby Day...
Greyfriars Bobby Day takes place on Thursday 14th January.
The dog who used the sound of the One o’ Clock Gun as a signal to go for his dinner was friendly with Colour Sergeant Donald McNab Scott who lodged at 28 Candlemaker Row next to Greyfriars Kirk.
added 09-Jan-10 15:13
All the best for 2010...
2009 proved a very good year for the Association thanks to the excellent advice and support we received from Edinburgh World Heritage, Historic Scotland, Edinburgh City Council and EVOC.
added 04-Jan-10 13:36
 In days gone by...
In days gone by, before the arrival of the telly changed the tradition, the citizens of Edinburgh would gather at the Tron Kirk on Hogmanay to welcome the New Year.
They would then go first footing which meant visiting their friends and neighbours to wish them good luck for the coming year.
added 31-Dec-09 11:29
 Entertainment centre of the town...
During the 19th century the Grassmarket was the entertainment centre of the town. The military bands of the regiments stationed at the Castle would play on the fortress’s Half Moon Battery overlooking the busy marketplace.
added 20-Dec-09 07:23
 Buffalo Bill Cody’s trip to Edinburgh Castle...
Tuesday 15th December marks the anniversary of Buffalo Bill Cody’s trip to Edinburgh Castle.
During 1892 Buffalo Bill’s Wild West Show spent a season at the East End Exhibition Buildings at Dennistoun, Glasgow. The world famous showman decided to come through to the capital for the day.
added 12-Dec-09 10:43
 Photographs of the Nelson Monument...
Photographs of the Nelson Monument information display panels can now be seen on the website's Pictures section.
added 07-Dec-09 08:37
 Frederick James Ritchie’s headstone...
Frederick James Ritchie’s headstone has been located thanks to Stuart Fagan, Edinburgh City Council Cemeteries Manager. Although the committee was aware that the clockmaker was buried in Rosebank Cemetery, efforts to find the headstone proved unsuccessful.
added 30-Nov-09 10:06
 The Clockie Ritchie exhibition at Leith Library...
The Clockie Ritchie exhibition was opened last Saturday at Leith Library
added 23-Nov-09 07:59
 Staff Sergeant Tam McKay M.B.E., Anniversary...
Tuesday 17th November marks the anniversary of the death Staff Sergeant Tam McKay M.B.E.
Over ten years ago Tam had the idea of marking the millennium by putting on a three month exhibition at Edinburgh Castle featuring the One o’ Clock Gun.
added 16-Nov-09 08:19
 Mons Meg’s wheel...
A metal band round one of Mons Meg’s wheels has begun to bend out of shape due to the weight of the massive barrel and carriage.
Two mini-cranes have been used to hoist the giant cannon off the ground to allow experts from Historic Scotland to restore the damaged wheel.
added 09-Nov-09 08:13
 Exhibition ended it’s run...
The James Ritchie Clockmakers 1809-2009 exhibition ended it’s run at the Central Library on Saturday. The exhibition was successful as it brought the public’s attention to the company’s long history and it’s important connection with the capital.
added 02-Nov-09 09:51
 Admiral Nelson’s famous signal...
Admiral Nelson’s famous signal failed to fly from the Nelson Monument on Wednesday the 21st.
According to the company contracted to set up the flags, as one of the two horizontal fibreglass flagpoles was being placed in position, a sudden gust of wind broke the pole.
added 26-Oct-09 09:03
 The opening of the ‘James Ritchie & Son 1809-2009 ’ exhibition...
The opening of the ‘James Ritchie & Son 1809-2009 ’ exhibition went very well. In addition to the managing director Alan Wilson, a few of the firm’s former employees attended the opening.
added 19-Oct-09 11:55
 The opening of the...
The opening of the ‘James Ritchie & Son Clockmakers’ exhibition marking the firm’s 200th anniversary will open at the Central Library, George IV Bridge, Edinburgh on Saturday 17th October at 10.30 am.
added 09-Oct-09 09:50
 World Animal Day Walk...
The Association’s walk to mark World Animal Day was a success as the weather turned out to be bright and sunny.
added 05-Oct-09 08:15
 The Time Ball & Battle of Trafalgar exhibition...
The Time Ball & Battle of Trafalgar exhibition at the Nelson Monument opened to the public on Saturday 26th September.
added 27-Sep-09 12:55
 Only two weeks to go...
Only two weeks to go to the World Animal Day Walk on Sunday 4th October. Animal lovers and their pets should assemble at Bum’s statue in West Princes Street Gardens (King’s Stables Road) at 1.30 pm.
added 19-Sep-09 20:06
 The campaign to advertise World Animal Day...
The campaign to advertise World Animal Day was launched outside Jennie Ha’s pub in the Royal Mile on Sunday morning. An ‘Evening News’ photographer took shots of our Chairman Brian McKenzie and our mascot Blue, while Association member Gavin Lovie took shots at Edinburgh Castle, Holyroodhouse and Bobby’s drinking fountain.
added 14-Sep-09 12:33
 World Animal Day...
World Animal Day is only a few weeks away. Animal lovers wishing to take part in the Greyfriars Bobby Walk are invited to dress in Victorian costume, bring their pets and assemble at Bum’s statue in Princes Street Gardens at 1.30 pm on Sunday 4th October.
added 06-Sep-09 09:23
 This week’s photograph...
This week’s photograph shows Jonathon Simpson one of the four pipers provided by Reel Time Events to welcome visitors to Edinburgh Castle, play on the ramparts and pipe the District Gunner as he marches across the Mills Mount Battery to fire the time gun at one o’clock (check out roddythepiper).
added 29-Aug-09 15:13
 Pipe Major Bob Anderson...
Pipe Major Bob Anderson the Association’s piper has received the good news that the operation on his hand has been successful. The photograph shows Pipe Major Anderson playing at the ceremony to launch the Royal Regiment of Scotland exhibition at the Central Library, Edinburgh.
added 22-Aug-09 21:17
 We’ve heard from Jay Wilson’s dad John...
We’ve heard from Jay Wilson’s dad John. Although Jay's now a second year pupil at Hamilton College he's still keen on the One o’clock Gun and keeps in touch with Sergeant Shannon the District Gunner.
added 17-Aug-09 08:02
 The name of the Association has now been changed...
As can be seen on the banner, the name of the Association has now been changed.
Although the new name is a bit of a mouthful, the committee felt that as we are now involved in setting up a time ball exhibition at the Nelson Monument in collaboration with Edinburgh World Heritage and the City of Edinburgh Council, the new title is appropriate.
added 09-Aug-09 21:07
The Royal Regiment of Scotland exhibition...
The Royal Regiment of Scotland exhibition set up to publicise Military Heritage Scotland’s project to build a national military museum on the Clyde opened at the Mitchell Library, Glasgow last Friday.
added 02-Aug-09 11:54
 We’ve heard from Rob Romano of the Whitehaven Gun Team....
The time gun which stands on the port’s harbour quay is normally fired every Friday at 1.00 pm. In addition to being fired on naval and military occasions such as Rememberance Day, the gun can also be fired by members of the public to celebrate birthdays or weddings.
added 18-Jul-09 20:24
 Anniversary of the death of Chief Master Gunner Findlay...
Saturday 18th July marks the anniversary of the death of Chief Master Gunner Findlay. The gunner worked with Professor Piazzi Smyth and Frederick James Ritchie to set up the One o’clock Gun in 1861.
added 11-Jul-09 12:30
 The time ball and mast...
The time ball and mast were successfully lowered into position on the Nelson Monument on Tuesday, June 30th. Although City Museums Manager Frank Little was on the hill to witness the historic event, Dorothy Marsh the city’s Keeper of Conservation could not be present as she was on holiday.
added 30-Jun-09 21:39
 Nelson Monument Time Ball...
The time ball will be set up on the Nelson Monument on Tuesday June 30th. The tricky operation of re-positioning the mast and ball on top of the tower will be cancelled if the wind force proves too strong.
added 29-Jun-09 08:03
 The Chairman of the One o’clock Gun Association...
Brian McKenzie lives with his wife Stella at South Queensferry, West Lothian. Brian who was born in North Berwick, East Lothian enlisted in the RAF straight from school. During his career he was stationed in Madagascar and Kenya.
added 24-Jun-09 08:46
 The One o’clock Gun Association’s A.G.M....
The One o’clock Gun Association’s A.G.M. was held at the Thistle Hotel, 59 Manor Place, Edinburgh on Sunday, 31st May. In spite of the good weather there was fair turnout of members. Unfortunately although John and Ellen Thomson are on holiday in the capital just now they couldn’t make the meeting as Ellen was feeling unwell after their long flight from Canada.
added 11-Jun-09 16:34
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