Open day at Eastlands Cemetery
Tuesday, November 4 2008
Members of the public, funeral directors, monumental masons and ministers had an interesting but unusual day out at Eastlands Cemetery in Galashiels on Saturday (1 November).
The idea for the cemetery’s first open day came from Jason Hedley, Parks Manager at Scottish Borders Council.
“We’ve had a lot of thoughts about how we can improve Eastlands Cemetery, but the plans are going to take time and money,” he explained. “We wanted to get feedback before going ahead and thought that an open day would give everyone the chance to come along, see the plans and let us know what they think”.
Visitors looked at the gravestones and at some of the equipment used to maintain the cemetery, excavate the graves and deal with headstones.
They were also able to look at records dating back to 1865 and learn a bit more about the families and characters laid to rest at Eastlands over the years. Cemeteries staff were on hand to answer questions from visitors about all aspects of cemeteries, including tracing ancestors.
One grave that generated a great deal of interest is that of Robert Coltart – the author of the famous Scots lullaby ‘Coulter’s Candy’. Supporters of the author are hoping to erect a plaque or memorial at the cemetery, where Coltart is buried in an unmarked grave.
And to set the record straight – Coltart is not buried in a ‘pauper’s grave’ as has been suggested, but in a purchased lair. It just doesn’t have a headstone.
Councillor Len Wyse, the Council’s Executive Member for Environmental Services, said: “Open days like this are a great way to give the public early notice of proposed changes to their local cemetery and the chance to give feedback. I would urge anyone who has suggestions, but couldn’t come along on the day, to contact the Council to make sure their ideas are taken into consideration”.
The team can be contacted at the Heatheryett Cemeteries office in Galashiels on 01896 753856.
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