15 legendary Edinburgh institutions that are gone but not forgotten
By David Mclean
Published 3rd Jun 2019, 17:38 BST
Updated 3rd Jun 2019, 18:38 BST
James Thin
Edinburgh has witnessed scores of institutions vanish over the years, never to return.
But while these institutions may have bitten the dust, our collective memories of them will never fade. From Brattisani's wonderful fish and chips to the great engineering works at Ferranti, we take a look at 15 legendary social institutions from around Edinburgh that are gone but not forgotten.
A favourite of Edinburgh University students, James Thin stationer and bookseller developed a foothold in Edinburgh during the 20th century, with a number of shops including the famous corner store at South Bridge (now Blackwells).
Established in the 1930s, Casey's of Edinburgh produced and sold more gobstoppers, soor plooms and dolly mixtures over the years than you could shake a dentist's drill at. The shops at St Mary's Street and Easter Road were the most famous.
Countless great bands played here including The Stone Roses (twice), My Bloody Valentine and The Manic Street Preachers. For a generation, this truly was THE venue. It closed in 2006.
Rankins' sold fruit, veg and flowers to generations of Edinburgh folk. This institution boasted various outlets in the Capital including several in the city centre.
Although not Edinburgh-founded, electrical engineering firm Ferranti opened a factory at Crewe Toll in the 1940s. Works team Ferranti Thistle today ply their trade as Livingston FC.
Founded in 1918, Leith's Henry Robb shipyard employed thousands in the shipbuilding industry. The yard closed in 1984 with the Ocean Terminal shopping centre now occupying much of its footprint.
