5 Secrets Of Fettes Police Station Edinburgh You Never Knew

Have you ever wondered what mysteries and secrets lie behind the facade of one of Edinburgh's most enigmatic buildings, Fettes Police Station? Often featured in crime dramas and shrouded in mystery, this iconic structure holds secrets that even locals might be unaware of. Let's delve into the intriguing 5 Secrets of Fettes Police Station Edinburgh You Never Knew.

The Architectural Marvel 🏰

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Fettes Police Station, with its striking Gothic architecture, is not just a functional building but a piece of art. Designed by David Bryce, an architect known for his Gothic Revival style, the station was built between 1871 and 1874. Here's what makes it stand out:

• Stonework and Gargoyles: The building features intricate stonework with detailed carvings and gargoyles, giving it an almost castle-like appearance. This was inspired by the need to instill a sense of authority and respect for the law.

• Clock Tower: The station boasts a prominent clock tower, which is not just for timekeeping but serves as a symbol of oversight and vigilance, literally keeping an eye over the city.

• Interior Design: Inside, the building maintains a balance between functional office spaces and grand, ornate public areas, reflecting the dual role of a police station in serving both justice and as a community hub.

A Storied Past 📜

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Fettes Police Station's history is as rich as its architecture:

• Inception: Initially, the Edinburgh Police were housed at the High Street, but as the city grew, a new location was needed. Fettes became the solution.

• Naming: Named after Sir William Fettes, a former Provost of Edinburgh, the building's site was once part of his estate, which adds a layer of historical depth.

• Role in Crime Investigation: Fettes was not just a station but the nerve center for criminal investigations in the city, with stories of police dogs, forensic advancements, and detective work that shaped modern policing.

<p class="pro-note">🎩 Note: The site has seen many historic events, including the famous attempt by Edinburgh police to catch the city's first murderer using fingerprints in 1895.</p>

The Famous Fettes Street Sign 🔍

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One of the lesser-known secrets is the street sign:

• Deceptively Normal: At first glance, the street sign looks like any other, but it has a hidden twist. It's designed in such a way that it's almost impossible to read correctly unless you're standing in a specific spot.

• Why: This was allegedly done to confuse criminals attempting to navigate or escape through the area, symbolizing the ever-watchful eyes of the law enforcement.

Secret Tunnels Beneath 🕳️

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Underneath the grandeur of Fettes:

• The Tunnels: There's a network of tunnels used historically for transporting prisoners to and from court, ensuring they could move without causing a public scene.

• Use in Modern Times: While the tunnels aren't used in the same way today, they remain an intriguing part of the station's infrastructure, with only key personnel having access.

Ghostly Encounters 👻

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Like many old structures in Edinburgh:

• Reported Sightings: Staff and visitors alike have reported strange occurrences like unexplained footsteps, cold spots, and even apparitions.

• Famous Apparition: The most famous ghost is that of a former officer who reportedly never left the station after his demise, still looking over the city he served.

<p class="pro-note">🔔 Note: The ghostly tales add a layer of mystique, but they are not the only stories that echo through the halls of Fettes.</p>

The Insignia and Legacy 🛡️

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Fettes Police Station's insignia and emblem:

• Design: The emblem features a crowned shield with the city's crest, symbolizing loyalty, vigilance, and service to the community.

• Cultural Impact: The station has been featured in numerous media, from crime novels to television, making its insignia widely recognized.

Fettes Police Station in Edinburgh is more than just a building; it's a piece of living history, an architectural masterpiece, and a hub of mystery and intrigue. Whether you're intrigued by its design, fascinated by its history, or drawn to the tales of the supernatural, Fettes holds secrets that enrich the cultural tapestry of Edinburgh. Next time you walk by, look beyond the facade, and you might just sense the whispers of the past mingling with the modern pulse of law enforcement.

Frequently Asked Questions:

<div class="faq-section"> <div class="faq-container"> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>Is Fettes Police Station open to the public?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>Fettes Police Station is not generally open for public tours due to its operational nature, but it does occasionally host community events or historical tours.</p> </div> </div> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>Are there any public records or archives about Fettes Police Station?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>Yes, the National Records of Scotland hold archives that include documents and records pertaining to Fettes Police Station.</p> </div> </div> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>What are some of the famous cases associated with Fettes?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>Some notable cases include the investigation of the 1895 murderer who was caught using fingerprints, one of the first instances in British criminal history.</p> </div> </div> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>Can one visit the tunnels beneath Fettes Police Station?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>The tunnels are not accessible to the public due to security reasons, but they are a known part of the station's structure.</p> </div> </div> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>Who was Sir William Fettes?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>Sir William Fettes was a former Provost of Edinburgh, whose estate's land was used to build the police station. He also founded Fettes College, a prestigious school in Edinburgh.</p> </div> </div> </div> </div>