26th April 1854 saw the death of Lord Cockburn of Bonaly.
Henry Thomas Cockburn, as he was born as, was largely responsible for saving many of the beautiful building we have in our capital city, he campaigned to protect and improve the beauty of Edinburgh as it began to grow in the early nineteenth century.
Cockburn was born on 26th October 1779, the son of Archibald Cockburn and Janet Rannie..Henry was a nephew of the notorious politcian Henry Dundas and through his influence gained the position of advocate-depute. Fortunatley he did not share his uncle's political persuasion and was instrumental in the foundation of the 'Edinburgh Review' in 1802.
As an advocate he defended many of the political radicals, who had been a constant worry to the establishment since the French Revolution. He became Lord Cockburn in 1830 and Solicitor General of Scotland. In this capacity he assisted in the drafting of the Scottish Reform Bill in 1832. In 'Memorials of His Time' he laments 'the last purely Scotch age' before political factionalism and provides a vivid first-hand account of life in the capital during the 'Age of Enlightenment'.
He was a noted conservationist of Edinburgh's built environment. The Cockburn Society, which continues to have a significant role in the protection of the city, is named in his honour.
He died at Bonaly Tower, the country seat he had built in southwest Edinburgh, and lies buried in Dean Cemetery. Cockburn Street in the Old Town of Edinburgh was also named after him.
