#MyrtleMondays: On Holiday in Scotland

Alas, that headline does not reflect the current reality for your Learned Author. However, it is the happy state in which we find Myrtle and company in Myrtle, Means, and Opportunity, Myrtle Hardcastle Mysteries Book 5. Coming October 24, Myrtle’s next misadventure in Victorian Criminology is set in Argyll, Scotland. If your own summer travel plans do not include a tour of the wonders of Caledonia, at least we can all enjoy this look at the heyday of Victorian Scottish tourism.

Thus Myrtle, Miss Judson, Cook, and Peony arrive in Scotland. Although they are technically here on business, they find themselves among throngs of tourists—a not-uncommon occurrence in 1890s Scotland. The appeals of Scotland were introduced to a captivated English audience by the Royal Family, who began visiting their northernmost kingdom in 1847.

Morning in the Highlands, Carl Haag, 1843, celebrates one of the Royal Family’s many visits to Scotland

Queen Victoria was so taken with Scotland that she published illustrated editions of her diaries from the trips, which spread Scotland fever throughout Great Britain.

1868 presentation edition of Her Majesty’s Leaves from the Journal of Our Life in the Highlands

Ferry Passengers disembark at Rothesay Harbor in Argyll, near Myrtle’s destination (colorized photograph from the 1890s)

While railway travel opened up much of the UK to holidaymakers from the 1840s, the islands of western Scotland relied on boats to serve their tourists.

1851 souvenir map of Scotland (reproductions are still available today!)

 

Detail view showing Loch Fyne (circled), setting of Myrtle, Means, and Opportunity

Advertising memorabilia used striking imagery of traditional Scottish life like tartan clothing, thistles, and curling, along with popular attractions like Edinburgh’s Stirling Castle (center inset) and fishing, helping popularize images of Scotland that we still recognize today.

And that imagery enjoyed international recognition. This French poster advertises tours to Ecosse (Scotland). These happy tourists have evidently arrived via steamboat up a loch, to meet their Scottish gillie (a local hunting and fishing guide).

Remnants of Scotland’s past dot the coastline and countryside, like this 13th century castle ruin (Threave, colorized photo)

Visitors to Scotland came to see the same things that attract tourists today: the striking scenery, the fascinating history, and the relaxing country pursuits of hiking and fishing.

Souvenirs of Scottish holidays abounded. Travelers could bring home mementoes from their travels that are still gift shop staples–everything from books, art, and jewelry, to collectible spoons and commemorative teacups.

A clan badge like this Victorian Clan Bell souvenir plays a critical role in Myrtle’s next mystery.

Those resigned to enjoying the pleasures of Scotland vicariously could always turn to that old standby, the stereoscope view.

Stereo view showing bekilted guards on duty at Stirling Castle

And a steamship plying Loch Katrine (note how the Scots has been translated to Lake Katrine for its American audience)

I can’t wait to take you along on Myrtle’s grand tour of Scotland. I have lots more Scottish content planned before the big adventure on October 24. Stay tuned!