TREES FOR ALL
A little of the history
COVID-19 inflicted pain and loss on many lives through illness and death, and the accompanying social isolation and restrictions took their toll on all ages.
As the nation emerged from under the pandemic, Rev Ian Y Gilmour, Minister of Cramond Kirk, had a bright idea to lighten the load of grief. As a result, a group of local representatives started to enhance the neighbourhood of Cramond, on the outskirts of Edinburgh, by planting trees and bulbs as focal points for remembrance and symbols of renewal.
Sites for planting were identified and people with a connection to the area donated towards individual trees.
The project grew and now has fifty-eight trees sponsored by families whose loved ones have passed away and not necessarily due to the pandemic. In planting the trees, the environment is improved and comfort brought in remembrance of loved ones.
Local schools, Cargilfield and Cramond Primary were involved from the start. The first tree was planted by the children on 4 November 2021 near the main entrance to Cramond Kirk Halls. In line with the preference for native species, this is a sessile oak and was planted with great celebration, amidst songs and poetry written and recited by the pupils.
In total, fifty-eight trees have been planted for Cramond Commemorates and although no more are planned this is a living project which will continue through the trees themselves.
The History Continued
After the first tree
In November 2022, a year after the first tree was planted, Cramond Primary planted another oak, this time in memory of Queen Elizabeth II who had died two months earlier.
Working with the City of Edinburgh Council and local landowners further sites for planting were identified: at Cramond Primary School, in ancient parkland by Cramond House and in old walled gardens by Cramond Kirk Halls. These can be found on the map . [Link]
As the project rolled out many in the community became involved in the clearing and preparation of the ground and well as the planting. The first two years are particularly important when it comes to watering young trees. When a hose could not reach, the school children, Cubs and Scouts saved the day by forming bucket chains. They have also transported tonnes of wood chippings by wheelbarrow to help the trees to thrive. [Photo of tree watering and Scouts helping – Edith to find this as its gone walk about!)]
Acknowledgement
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Rev Ian Y Gilmour – who’s bright idea it was!
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David Bleiman – Well renowned for his Scots poetry, David ran workshops with local school children, to write poetry for the project alongside his own. Proceeds from sales of his book Gathering light: a Cramond causeway (Dempsey & Windle, 2022) were donated to the project.
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City of Edinburgh Council – for help and support through various departments. In particular the parks and Greenspaces staff who advised and helped with practicalities as well as sourcing and supplying some of the saplings.
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Cramond Estates – who provide land and trees for the orchard.
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Historic Environment Scotland – who granted permission when necessary.
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Edinburgh Archaeological Field Society –who checked no good treasure was to be found when digging the holes.
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Cramond Woodland Group – who continue to look after many of the trees.
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Cramond Primary School and Cargilfield School – for participation from the start.
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The congregation of Cramond Kirk, now united with Pennywell Kirk to form Edinburgh Northwest Kirk.
The First Tree
The first tree, a sessile oak, was planted outside Cramond Kirk Halls on …….. In general remembrance of losses due to COVID.
This was a great occasion shared by pupils of Cargilfield and Cramond Primary schools, and members of the community and congregation of
Cramond Kirk.
Local poet, David Bleiman (?sp) had helped with poetry writing and children read excellent verses and planted the tree with much
enthusiasm
It thrives, not least from the care it has received. It has been watered by many willing volunteers, including the Monday morning coffee group
and hall staff, but the prize goes to the Cubs and Scouts for their bucket chains during the very dry months.
What Next?
The area in front of Cramond House has been generously planted with fruit trees by Cramond Estates, in aid of Cramond Commemorates. The trees are to be tended and harvested by the community.
One of Cramond Commemorates’ biggest supporters is the Cramond Woodland Group, who regularly trim the areas around the trees. In the orchard they help with pruning to encourage maximum yield and manageability for years to come.
We would love to hear from you!
If you would like to be involved or find out more please email Cramond Commemorates at ………
Although spearhead by volunteers from Edinburgh Northwest Kirk: Cramond and Pennywell the project is for the community.
If you would like to make a donation [“DONATE” box} – can we link this to the kirk donate site?
Alexa Young, CA
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Morgan James, NY
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Lisa Driver, MI
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