Context : History
The Earls of Buchan
The illustrious Earls of Buchan were a very prominent, ancient Scottish family and owned large estates in the local area. Part of their Almondell Estate eventually became West Lothian’s Almondell & Calderwood Country Park.
Perhaps the two foremost family members to leave an indelible mark on the local history were the 11th Earl and the Hon Henry Erskine.
The 11th Earl
The 11th Earl had a great love of the sciences and was one of the founder members of the Scottish Society of Antiquaries.
In 1776 the Earl built a scaled model of the Solar system within the grounds of his estate.The calculations he used to construct his model of the solar system were summarised and engraved on a stone pillar. Known as the Kirkill Astronomical Pillar, it has recently been studied by scientists who were astounded by the accuracy of the Earl’s calculations.
The 11th Earl was also an ardent environmentalist and this is clearly highlighted by his message inscribed into the pillar.
“Digna manet divini gloria ruris”
“To remain worthy of the land and its heaven-sent honour”
The Hon. Henry Erskine
A notable Scottish politician and lawyer. The second son of 10th Earl of Buchan, was twice appointed Lord Advocate for Scotland, his brother was Lord Chancellor of England. He acquired the Almondell Estate and designed and built Almondell House which was completed in 1812. The house was located in what is now the Almondell & Calderwood Country Park.
The Almondell estate was eventually broken up and sold in 1970, with West Lothian Council acquiring the 230 acre woodland park area. Almondell House itself no longer stands, but the original Coach House and Stables are now being used as the Visitor Centre for the Country Park.
