Catherine Sinclair stone plaque

This stone commemorative plaque records: Catherine Sinclair Born 17 April 1800 Died 6 August 1864 She was the friend of all children and through her book Holiday House speaks to them still. Besides success in her writings which were many and popular, she was an early pioneer in philanthropy. Her volunteer Brigade for the boys of Leith was the first of its kind, she initiated Cooking Depots for working men and erected the first drinking fountain in Edinburgh; her Hall for lectures and her work amongst cabmen endeared her name to different sections of her fellow-citizens. This monument was raised by some of her many friends. The inscription, except the name and dates was added in 1901 by her affectionate nephew, Sir Tollemache Sinclair, Bart., of Ulbster, Caithness-shire.

Catherine Sinclair was a prolific author and philanthropist who significantly impacted Victorian-era social welfare through initiatives like her volunteer brigade for boys and cooking depots for working men. Her work in Edinburgh, including the establishment of the city's first drinking fountain, reflects her dedication to improving the lives of underprivileged citizens.