View From Queens Cross Looking North

AssociatedAssociated with Rubislaw Church

Photographer George Washington Wilson (Alvah, Banffshire, Scotland, 1823 - 1893)

Date1878

Object NamePhotograph

Mediumalbumen print

ClassificationsPhotographs

Dimensions13.3 x 9.7cm

AcquisitionPurchased in 1987 with assistance from the National Fund for Acquisitions, the National Art Collections Fund, the National Heritage Memorial Fund and with income from the Ramsay-Dyce Bequest.

CopyrightOut of copyright - CC0

LocationView by Appointment - Aberdeen Treasure Hub

Object numberABDMS017750

Keywords

About MeGeorge Washington Wilson's home at Queen's Cross was completed in 1865. Designed by architect J Russell Mackenzie with significant input from Wilson the house was a symbol and sign of the wealth and social status of the photographer. With plate glass windows and a central heating system the house was one of the most modern in the city.

The photographer moved from his more modest house on Crown Street to an area which housed Aberdeen's elite, well away from the sights, sounds and smells of industry and commerce.

Rubislaw Parish Church is seen here at the centre of the photo. The Church was also designed by J Russell Mackenzie and opened in 1875. Made from sandstone it contrasts with the granite which was the material fo choice for most of the architecture of the area. A spire was added later.