Greyfriars Bobby

Greyfriars-bobby-edin

Greyfriars Bobby was a Skye Terrier who became known in 19th-century Edinburgh, Scotland, after reportedly spending 14 years guarding the grave of his owner, John Gray, until he died himself on 14 January 1872. Bobby's story continues to be well known in Scotland, through several books and films.

History

John Gray, also known as "Auld Jock," was a night watchman for the Edinburgh City Police. He adopted Bobby as a companion and watchdog. When Gray died of tuberculosis on 15 February 1858, he was buried in Greyfriars Kirkyard, a cemetery in the Old Town of Edinburgh. Bobby is said to have spent the rest of his life sitting on his master's grave.

Memorials

A year after Bobby's death, Baroness Burdett-Coutts commissioned a fountain with a statue of Bobby placed on top. The statue, created by William Brodie, was unveiled on 15 November 1873. The monument is located near the entrance to Greyfriars Kirkyard and has become a popular tourist attraction.

Cultural Impact

The story of Greyfriars Bobby has inspired numerous books, films, and other media. Notable adaptations include the 1961 Walt Disney film "Greyfriars Bobby: The True Story of a Dog" and the 1912 novel "Greyfriars Bobby" by Eleanor Atkinson.

Greyfriars Kirkyard

Greyfriars Kirkyard is a historic cemetery in Edinburgh, known for its association with Greyfriars Bobby. It is also the burial place of many notable Edinburgh residents, including George Buchanan, Mary Erskine, and James Hutton.

See Also

• List of individual dogs
• Edinburgh
• Skye Terrier
• Greyfriars Kirkyard