James Thomson bridge and statue, Hawick
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The James Thomson footbridge is in Hawick, in the Scottish borders. The bridge over the River Teviot, opened in 2006. It provides an interesting contrast to the older buildings in the background.
James Thomson, 1827 - 1888, was a local poet and songwriter, best known for composing the lyrics to the “Star o’ Rabbie Burns” often sung at Burns suppers. The statue is by local artist Bill Landles. whose great great grandmother was a friend of Thomsons living in the same row of tenement flats as Thomson. When the houses were demolished Thomson carved Landles great great grandmother a goblet from a wooden roof beam. A cast was made of the goblet, which is exhibited in the local museum and sits prominently at the front of the statue.
You can read more about the area in my guide to the Scottish Borders.
[tags]Hawick, Scotland, Scottish poet, Scottish songwriter, Scottish Borders[/tags]
September 4th, 2007 at 5:53 pm
Thank you for putting this on this website. I am the Great-Great Granddaughter of James Thomson. I live in Canada. I was thrilled to see this picture and commentary of him on your site. Was in Hawick in May to see his grave but unfortunately didn’t see the bridge-but heard that there was one built in his honour. Please contact me at the above e-mail address, I would love to hear any more stories if you have them. Would love to know Bill Lanles e-mail address if you have it.
Thank you again. Pam Jeremiah
September 6th, 2007 at 4:42 pm
Thanks for you comments, it is a pity that you didn’t see the bridge when you were in Hawick.