Airlie Monument

The Airlie Monument was erected in memory of the11th Earl of Airlie who was killed in the Boer War on 11th June 1900. The ceremony of laying the memorial stone took place on 2nd September 1901. The whole of the stonework of the monument was taken from Herdhill Quarry Kirriemuir except for the carved panels, which were taken from Corsehill Quarry Dumfrieshire. It is 65 feet high and is 1230 feet above sea level. The architect was Mr T M Cappon, FRIBA, 30 Reform Street, Dundee, the contractors for the whole work were Messrs Gray and Sons, Newtyle and the carving work was executed by Mr James Bremmer Broughty Ferry. The cost of erecting the monument was £1,300. The following is an extract of the inscription cut into the stone panel over the main entrance “ In the year 1901, under the sense of a great loss and feeling of sorrow, his own people, his countrymen, and his friends united in raising this monument to perpetuate the revered memory of David William Stanley Ogilvy, 11th Earl of Airlie Lieutenant- Colonel commanding 12th Lancers, born 20th January 1856, who fell in action while gallantly leading his regiment at Diamond Hill, near Pretoria, on 11th June 1900. He was a brave and distinguished soldier who served his country in the Afghan War: 1878 –1879, in Suakim 1884, in the Soudan Expedition 1884-1885 as well as in the Boer War 1899 – 1900. On hearing of Lord Airlie’s death Lord Roberts the General Officer Commanding the British forces in South Africa said in his dispatch “I deplore the death of that gallant soldier, the Earl of Airlie, who, true to the loyal and patriotic traditions of his ancient house and at the call of duty, yielded his life of devotion to his God, his Queen, and his country on the battlefield.” He was buried where he fell at Diamond Hill.