image copyright Rachel Windsor

Nautical training has always been important in Leith, first provided by the Fraternity of Masters and Mariners, who appointed a dedicated professor to teach the mathematics of navigation in 1680, and the first formalised examinations in 1788.   Before erecting the first purpose built nautical college in the UK at 59 Commercial Street, the Leith Navigation School was situated at 60 Tolbooth Wynd and 14 Dock Place.  Work commenced on the building in 1901, with the assistance of a £200 legacy from Mr John Wishet in 1887 and additional financial support from the Dr Bell’s School Fund, which was now available since Dr Bell’s School had been taken over by the School Board.  The new college was designed by William C Laidlaw and opened in 1902.  The next 80 years were to see the School expand, extend, and finally remove to new premises at Milton Road East where abruptly, in 1987, funding for the college was withdrawn and the School closed.