Edinburgh, Scotland, United Kingdom — Northwestern Europe (the British Isles)
James Braidwood
1800 - 1861
— Father of British Fire Service —
Photographed By Michael Herrick, August 23, 2018
1. James Braidwood
This statue is dedicated to the memory of James Braidwood, a pioneer of the scientific approach to fire-fighting. It also recognises the courage and sacrifice of fire-fighters, not only in Lothian & Borders Fire and Rescue Service, but all over the world.
In 1824, Edinburgh suffered two disastrous fires which destroyed much of the old city. As a result, the City Council decided to create the world’s first Municipal Fire Brigade and James Braidwood was appointed to take command.
Quickly establishing an effective service, he developed new fire-fighting techniques, many of which are still used today. in 1882, he left his native Edinburgh to establish London’s first full-time fire brigade.
Always at the front of the action, he was killed whilst fighting a fire in London’s Tooley Street.
This statue has been provided through the vision and, to a great degree, the generous sponsorship of Dr. Frank Rushbrook CBE – a former Firemaster of Edinburgh and a successor of James Braidwood.
Topics. This historical marker is listed in this topic list: Charity & Public Work. A significant historical year for this entry is 1800.
Location. 55° 56.97′ N, 3° 11.399′ W. Marker is in Edinburgh, Scotland. Marker is on Royal Mile close to W Parliament Square, on the right when
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Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. Adam Smith (within shouting distance of this marker); The High Street Wellhead (within shouting distance of this marker); Alexander & Bucephalus (within shouting distance of this marker); Advocate's Close (about 90 meters away, measured in a direct line); The City Chambers (about 90 meters away); Lodging of Sir Simon Preston (about 90 meters away); Edinburgh Municipal Building (about 120 meters away); The Lawnmarket Wellhead (about 120 meters away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Edinburgh.
Also see . . .
1. James Braidwood: Biography on Undiscovered Scotland. (Submitted on December 1, 2018, by Michael Herrick of Southbury, Connecticut.)
2. James Braidwood (firefighter) on Wikipedia. (Submitted on December 1, 2018, by Michael Herrick of Southbury, Connecticut.)
Photographed By Michael Herrick, August 23, 2018
2. James Braidwood Marker
Credits. This page was last revised on January 27, 2022. It was originally submitted on December 1, 2018, by Michael Herrick of Southbury, Connecticut. This page has been viewed 195 times since then and 21 times this year. Photos: 1, 2. submitted on December 1, 2018, by Michael Herrick of Southbury, Connecticut.
