Fishwives from Musselburgh

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"The Newhaven Fishwives prompted a recollection of such a woman who had her pitch at the end of Beaumont Place in the late thirties. As a kid I was told she walked via Fishwives Causeway from, I always believed,  Musselburgh.

I remember her black and white skirt-apron and the strong strap on her basket which she wore as a brow strap when hefting her goods (including her three legged stool). She sold 'buckies" complete with free pin and a shot of vinegar for, I think, 2d a cup."

Stables

"Also in that area were carriers stables. One horse 'Arrow" used to return unescorted through the streets to his stall from the St Leonards coal yard/ Goods yard each evening after being unharnessed. A memorable sight."

Housing

"Edinburgh seems to have had several housing incidents around that time. One in the corner of St Patrick's Square was of a staircase collapsing and I remember seeing pictures of baskets of 'messages' being hauled up by clothes rope to sustain the marooned tenants.

I think that particular building was demolished. It used to be over an arch (a 'pend'?) which led on in the direction of Buccleuch Place."

St Leonard's Hill

"I originated at 15 St. Leonard's Hill, top flat, from approx. 1938 until 1948, when I emigrated to Canada with my family. I am enjoying all the nostalgia concerning 'the Hill' and would like to hear from anyone of that era, so we can swap stories and talk of old times.  By the way, I am still a Hibs supporter!"

Fishwives

"Yes, the fishwives are likely to have come from Musselburgh.  Both Fisherrow Harbour at Musselburgh and Newhaven Harbour, between Leith and Granton had fishwives with their own distinctive costumes. "