Scottish American Memorial Day - Honouring the sacrifices of Scots in the First World War

The Royal British Legion Scotland mark Scottish American Memorial Day 2023 with a service led by the Reverend Peter Sutton AKC BD MTh PGCC, Minister of The Parish Church of St. Cuthbert, on Monday 29th May at The Call Memorial, Princes Street Gardens.

The Scottish American Memorial, also known as ‘The Call’ was funded by Scots and people of Scottish descent based in the United States, through an organisation called the Scottish American War Memorial Committee, and is a tribute to the sacrifices made by men and women from the donors’ homeland. This magnificent tribute stands as a testament to the brave Scots who valiantly fought in the First World War, and it serves as a poignant reminder of their sacrifices.

Designed and sculpted by the esteemed Doctor Robert Tait McKenzie, the Scottish American Memorial captures the spirit and essence of those who served. The centrepiece of the memorial is a kilted man, symbolic of the Scottish heritage, demonstrating the strength and resilience exhibited by these courageous men and women during the war. The frieze behind the sculpture complements the central figure, showcasing the artistic mastery and McKenzie's keen eye for physicality and movement. McKenzie himself played a vital role in the war effort by rehabilitating wounded soldiers who returned from the front lines.