Description

William Lindsay, circa 1710. Former wellhead (no longer functioning) re-located from East-end of Castle Street, surmounted by small semi-nude male lead figure. Square-plan with ogee cap. Coursed sandstone. Base course, deep cornice. Carved stone Green-man type heads forming spouts at each corner of cap. Small carved lion's head spout and wrought iron lamp bracket to E face. Cast-iron hinged opening to W face.

Statement of Interest

Situated originally at the East End of Castle Street, this water cistern was the first to provide piped water to the city. It is an important part of the city's engineering and social history and forms a significant part of the streetscape. The well was originally to have a number of gilt figures but the cost of £1,571 proved too much and a single figure, locally know as 'The Mannie' was erected. On special days, the carved heads at the corners spouted water.

The well was fed by springs from Cardensheugh (now Carden Place) to the West of the city, and the water was brought by six lead pipes to the well. Previous to this, the city had been supplied by water from local lochs, burns and ancient wells.

The cistern was moved to The Green in 1852 where a handle on the side of the plinth could be turned to provide spring or river water. The well remained at The Green until 1974 when it was moved to its current position, back in Castle Street.

External Links

• Historic Environment Scotland Listing
• Wikidata Q17779763

External links are from the relevant listing authority and, where applicable, Wikidata. Wikidata IDs may be related buildings as well as this specific building. If you want to add or update a link, you will need to do so by editing the Wikidata entry.

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