Newhailes House. Musselburgh, Scotland.

 It was in 1686 that James Smith the Scottish architect purchased the estate of Whitehall near Musselburgh on which he designed and built a country house now known as Newhailes. Smith pioneered the Italian Palladian style in Scotland and was involved in the design of many buildings including Drumlanrig Castle in Dumfries and Galloway, Old Surgeons Hall Edinburgh and Dalkeith House in Midlothian.

 

Front Elevation and Main Entrance.

However an unsuccessful coal-mining venture forced him to sell the estate in 1701 to John Bellenden 2nd Lord Bellenden who in turn sold it in 1709 to Sir David Dalrymple (Lord Hailes) who added the east wing as a library, described by Dr Samuel Johnson as ‘the most learned room in Europe’ because of its grand collection of books, all of which have since passed to the National Library of Scotland.

 

Rear Elevation.

 On his death in 1721 the house passed to his heir Sir James Dalrymple who was responsible for adding the west wing, moving the entrance and laying out the gardens.

Rear Gardens.

After James death the house passed down through 7 generations of Dalrymple's until the National Trust acquired it in 1997. It is now open to the general public by way of pre booked guided tours. Other than general maintenance nothing has been done to the house since the 18th century. Its liveable rich interiors include some very important portraits by Alan Ramsey, who is best known for painting Charles Edward Stewart’s portrait, along with other historical items of importance.

 

Memorial found in the grounds. 

Note. It was Sir John Dalrymple (1648 - 1707) under the monarchs William and Mary who became Lord Advocate and Secretary of State and was deemed to be ultimately responsible for the infamous massacre of 38 MacDonalds at Glencoe in February 1692. Forced to resign in 1695, he was also involved in the political wrangling of the 1707 Union settlement that as we know only benefited those with money and power.