A postcard image looking north towards the southern elevation of Scotstown House. This substantial mansion stood in what is now East Woodcroft in Bridge of Don.

The house is described by David G. Miller in his book Archibald Simpson, Architect: His Life and Times 1790-1847 (2006) on pages 101-102. Miller states that the mansion was designed and erected by Archibald Simpson for the Moirs of Scotstown and Spital, the local landowners, in around the 1820s.

Simpson is also credited with its design in his obituary in The Builder magazine (8th May 1847, vol. 5, no. 222).

Miller states that the mansion was "abandoned by the Moirs and lay derelict for many years before finally being demolished in the 1930s." (Page 102).

Newspaper mentions indicate the property was in disrepair and due for demolition in the 1930s (see Press & Journal, 6th October 1933, page 3), but sources, including Aberdeen City Council's Historic Environment Record, indicate it stood as a ruin until full demolition in the 1980s. Rubble was subsequently removed from the location in 1999. Some garden walls remain in situ.

As indicated in the bottom left, this postcard was published by a person or company abbreviated to "D. F. McK." This postcard likely dates from the early 20th century.

The rear of the postcard features a 1909 date stamp, green half penny Edward VII postage stamp, and was sent by a "J. C. W." to a Miss M. McKenzie of 37 Summerfield Terrace, Aberdeen.

Location

Bridge of Don

Keyword

Mansions

Photographer