Greyfriars Bobby ― Scottish legend of a dog’s loyalty

The story of Greyfriars Bobby is engrained into Scottish folklore like bagpipes. It has been a subject of Hollywood movies and numerous books. Our Swede friend Virve shares her experience of visiting Bobby’s shrine.

When you hear the word “Scotland”, what first comes to your mind? Perhaps stunning views over green hills, hundreds of square miles with beautiful lakes, medieval ruins, or Loch Ness and its mythical “Nessie”?

Let’s not forget to mention the melodious sound ringing from bagpipes, playfully lingering around you like the background music in a fabulous movie. These have all been my top associations when reflecting over Scotland, but after visiting Edinburgh in July I found yet another association; something that touched my heart deeper than anything else. Edinburgh, the capital of Scotland, holds many treasures for the one looking for a destination of profound historical and cultural dimensions.

And in the middle of this, being an adorer of the canine world, I discovered a piece of history that moved me in the most delicate way: the story of Greyfriars Bobby.

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The Greyfriars Bobby statue, located on Candlemaker Row in Edinburgh, is an iconic symbol of loyalty and devotion. This world-famous Skye Terrier monument has stood since 1873, commemorating Bobby’s enduring vigil by his master John Gray’s grave in Greyfriars Kirkyard. Despite local authorities discouraging the tradition of rubbing Bobby’s nose due to costly damages, visitors continue to do so, believing it brings good luck.

Bobby’s tale, a blend of folklore and historical fact, tells of his unwavering loyalty to John Gray, a nightwatchman who passed in 1858. For 14 years, Bobby remained at his master’s graveside, earning the love and care of Edinburgh’s residents. In 1867, the Lord Provost ensured Bobby’s safety by licensing him, and today, his collar is displayed at the Museum of Edinburgh. Visitors can also explore Bobby’s resting place near John Gray’s grave and the memorial fountain financed by Baroness Burdett-Coutts. This cherished story of loyalty continues to draw tourists and dog lovers alike to Edinburgh, celebrating the timeless bond between humans and their canine companions.

Story of Greyfriars Bobby

Legend has it that precious Bobby was the quadruped companion of a night watchman of the Edinburgh City Police, named John Gray. They shared life’s ups and downs for two years in the mid-19th-century, until Bobby’s dear friend tragically died from tuberculosis. What then happened to this loyal dog, you might be wondering?

The extraordinary but supposedly true continuation of the story reminds us of the many different expressions of unconditional love. Mr Gray was buried in Greyfriars Kirkyard, which is the graveyard surrounding Greyfriars Kirk in Edinburgh’s Old Town. Despite the efforts of the yard’s keeper and others, Bobby would not be discouraged from guarding the grave of his human. And there he sat; watching over the person he loved the most, every single day – for 14 years.

See also: Hachiko, the loyal dog who waited forever

Bobby was provided with a shelter just near to Mr Gray’s grave, as many locals were touched by his faithful commitment. Even though the citizens of Edinburgh looked after him, Bobby would not abandon his late companion. It is said that Bobby would leave the tomb only once per day; at one o’clock, when the gun sounded from the prominent Edinburgh Castle. This was the time he would run to a certain eating house, in which he would be served a meal at the gracious hands of the holder of the beanery. Upon finishing it, however, he would return to the spot of his comrade’s rest.

The brave Bobby died at the noble age of 16, on January 14th 1872. He was buried in Greyfriars Kirkyard, too, approximately 75 yards from Mr Gray’s grave. He rests under a red granite headstone, adorned with a most suitable inscription that reads:

“Greyfriars Bobby – died 14th January 1872 – aged 16 years. Let his loyalty and devotion be a lesson to us all.”

It’s fair to mention that separating fact from legend is always tricky, but whatever the case is, it does not negate the core moral of the legend: that true love is unconditional. It challenges the concept of death and even conquers it because true love lives on, into eternity.

And the most important lesson of them all: there’s no love like a dog’s love! Be kind to animals – always.

Also, read, How do you wait for someone who will never return? 

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