Great Plague
The Black Death swept across Europe killing millions in its path and desimating entire communities…how did the town of Leith cope through the dark times it was faced with? (more…)
12/20/2003
The pestilence continues…
The plague of Leith started in April 1645 with a brief mention in the records of the Kirk Records of South Leith Parish Church. All it says is Desyn Jon Kellas to furnish James Thomsone and Jon Dinlop till this day 8 dayes being inclosit for fear of ye plague” it also mentions Desyrs Jon Aldinstone to furnish (ie give provisions to) ye women at ye Yarde heads who is steeket up for feare of ye plague”. This is the 3rd April 1645 and by the time the plague ended in November 1645 2736 people would have died an agonising death. (more…)