The Cape Society
Aug
- Wed 27 Sep 2023
- Fergusson Pilgrimage
- Come help warm Fergusson and pay homage to his concentrated contribution to life and the Cape Club.
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Meet in Kilderkin, located here in Edinburgh's Canongate, between 19.30 and 20.00. We'll head in to Canongate Kirk at 20.00. Guests welcome
- Report
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A 'turn up for the books' was welcome at this year's Fergusson Pilgrimage
when Matt, who plays the role of Fergusson as part of
"The Real Mary King's Close" experience, joined Knights with three of his colleagues
who also work on conducting tours of Edinburgh's old underground passage ways.
It was fortunate Matt had looked at the Cape web site a few weeks earlier
when the meeting place mentioned "Tolbooth Tavern"
as it was later modified after the September meeting where Knights agreed to
meet in Kilderkin. Another fortunate turn of events was Martin
forgetting about this and reverting the meeting venue to Tolbooth
when advertising on the Farcebook page! It all worked out in the end.
Mark and Alex were also welcome additions to the regular core group
of pilgrims: Martin, Steve, Colin and Phil.
The usual script was followed closely to the letter; the usual photo with the recently
reinstated statue of Fergusson was taken before Knights and guests
headed in to the kirkyard and gathered around Fergusson's grave. Steve then
departed a little from the tradition of reciting Fergusson poetry
and instead recited some of Fergusson's will and
his obituary, published by his friend, Ruddiman, in the "Weekly Review".
The customary tipple(s!) was poured over the grave
and Matt gave a brief recital of some Burns and Fergusson poetry.
A nod was given to Runciman (painter of Fergusson's portrait)
as everyone headed back to the Tolbooth for a drink. Soon after, gathered
guests headed off to a prior birthday engagement. The remaining Knights and
guest then worked their way towards closing time through a few
beers and whiskies while imparting Fergusson and other chat.
Thanks to those who turned up to honour the memory of, arguably,
the Cape Club's greatest son. It was great to see fresh interest in this,
one of the Cape Society's most significant, traditional Manors.
Mobile-friendly picture gallery.
Some video...
Matt Burns Fergusson
