Edinburgh rock

A box with a red tartan background, and image of Edinburgh Castle and in large letters across the middle, "Edinburgh Rock".
One brand of Edinburgh rock
A pile of small cylindrical pieces of confectionery each one a different pale pastel colour
Edinburgh rock
An old Ferguson's 'Edinburgh Rock' advertisement

Edinburgh rock or Edinburgh Castle rock is a traditional Scottish confection, and is quite distinct from conventional rock. It consists of sugar, water, cream of tartar, colourings and flavourings. It is formed into sticks, and has a soft and crumbly texture.

History

Edinburgh rock was first made in the 19th century by a man named Alexander Ferguson, who became known as 'Sweetie Sandy'. Ferguson was born in Doune, Perthshire in 1798. He learned the confectionery trade in Glasgow, and then moved to Edinburgh to set up his own business. The success of Edinburgh rock was such that he was able to retire back to Doune a very rich man.[1]

In the early 20th century the rock was produced and sold at 1 Melbourne Place (demolished but previously the corner of George IV Bridge with the Lawnmarket).[2]

Discovery

There is an apocryphal tale that Ferguson discovered Edinburgh rock by accident. One day he came across a tray of sweets that had lain forgotten for months. He tried a piece of the desiccated results, found it to be delicious, and so Edinburgh rock was born.[3]

See also

References

  1. ^ "Traditional Scottish Sweets from Gordon and Durward of Crieff". Archived from the original on 2007-05-15. Retrieved 2007-05-16.
  2. ^ Edinburgh and Leith Post Office Directory 1911-12
  3. ^ "Features - Scottish Food, Traditions and Customs - Edinburgh Rock". Archived from the original on 2007-08-08. Retrieved 2007-05-16.


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