A Brief History of Leith
Leith has a long history as a famous and integral port throughout Scottish history. Situated to the north of Edinburgh City, Leith was first established sometime in the 12th century. It finally became a part of Edinburgh in the 1920s.
In 1449 Mary of Guelders, bride of James II arrived at the Port of Leith. 100 years later Mary of Guise, the mother of Mary Queen of Scots, would help to fortify Leith and spent time worshipping at the South Leith Parish Church.
After the abdication of Mary Queen of Scots in 1568 a three year period of war broke out known as the “Marian civil war”. During this period of vying powers the Kings army were encamped in Leith whilst sieging Edinburgh Castle, and so it would also become known as “the war between Leith & Edinburgh”. The fighting would end with the surrender of Edinburgh Castle by William Kirkcaldy of Grange to the King’s men.
In 1590 King James and his new wife Anne of Denmark landed in Leith. James’ plan had been to land in the previous Autumn, but perilous storms had forced Anne’s ship to dock in Norway until its passing. James would pin these storms upon the work of witches.
The plague of 1645 would see a large swathe of Leith’s populus fall victim to its horrific fate, somewhere around 45%.
In 1650 Leith prepared to become a battleground as the invading forces, headed by Oliver Cromwell, drew closer.
A rampart was built from Calton Hill to Leith in preparation, this stretch would go on to become what is known today as Leith Walk.
Scotland would go on to become occupied before the forces even reached Leith and thus the site was not witness to bloodshed.
Port O’ Leith Snuff
Sir Walter Scott’s have done it again! This unique, exquisite snuff blend is only available from The Pipe Shop.
A smooth, rich blend of top shelf Burley and bright leaf Virginia are paired with a deep, sweet Raspberry Liqueur that leaves a pleasant aroma after its consumption.
Medium grind, semi coarse snuff, this is recommended for people who are already well acquainted with using snuffs.
Easy on the nose, Port O’ Leith snuff is accentuated but not overpowered by the liqueur flavouring.
Sir Walter Scott’s
Sir Walter Scott’s, run by long time friend to The Pipe Shop, Sir Johnny Scott (known by some as The Countryman) is perhaps the highest quality, tradition focussed snuff brand in the country.
With a burning passion Sir Johnny Scott’s one man band operation, Sir Walter Scott’s Snuff is his passion project firstly.
He employs a higher level of scrutiny to the manufacturing of genuine vintage recipes than any other brand and the end product is always a testament to his ethos.
We have a collection of blogs focussed on snuffs by Sir Walter Scott’s, click on any of the links below to read more!
