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Today in History
1805:
Sir Alexander Burnes, Scottish explorer and public official, was born. A noted explorer of Pakistan, Iran, Afghanistan, and southern Russia, he was author of 'Map of Central Asia' and 'Travels into Bokhara.'
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Derivation of Local Street Names |
Riego Street
At the turn of the 19th century this street was called Tollcross Street. It was renamed Riego Street after the death in 1820 of the proprietor of this part of Tollcross, Major James Weir, who was on active duty in the Royal Marines during the Peninsular Wars.
The name refers to Don Rafael Riego, Major in the Asturian regiment in the Spanish Army who in 1820 proclaimed the Constitution of Cadiz. Around this time he visited Britain and came to Edinburgh. He was a well respected democrat of the time who, when King Ferdinand became absolute ruler of Spain, escaped from Cadiz, was captured and brutally executed in 1823.
Sometimes referred to as 'the two Riego Streets' the roadway was altered to accommodate building developments over 1987-8.
Rosebank Cottages
Erected in 1853 and named after a small area of land in the vicinity.
Rosemount Buildings
Erected in 1859 this building is named after the mansion and grounds of Rosemount built in 1785 and owned by William Morrison (see Morrison Street).
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Tollcross Online
