Peterhead Councillor Comments On Park Lane Historic Plaque

Peterhead North & Rattray SNP councillor Anne Allan has welcomed the recognition of an important part of Peterhead history with the siting of a plaque at the Seagate end of Park Lane.

The plaque commemorates the time spent in Peterhead by the Old Pretender when he landed in Peterhead in 1715 in his attempt to win back the throne, and his stay in the town at Park Lane.

Commenting, Councillor Allan said:

“I was delighted to be there, not only as a local councillor but also as a member of the Family History Society of Buchan.

“Park Lane is one of the oldest streets in Peterhead, one of five lanes which ran from Longait to Seagait, and has its own special place in Peterhead's history, as described in Dr David Bertie’s excellent book on Peterhead street names.

“I am delighted to see that the importance of this old street has been recognised, for it was in this street that James Stuart, the "Old Pretender" stayed overnight when he arrived back in Scotland in 1715 to attempt to regain his throne. It was named after James Park, (son in law of Thomas Arbuthnot, the last Baron Baillie to the Earl Marischal, who welcomed the Prince when he landed) in whose home he stayed.

“All too often redevelopment in our towns result in the loss of parts of our heritage, so to see this ancient street recognised and still used as a thoroughfare is wonderful.”