John Home

This plaque commemorates Reverend John Home, a significant figure in Scottish letters and society during the 18th century. Born in 1722, he distinguished himself not only as a minister and soldier but also as an author. His play, 'Douglas', achieved considerable renown, becoming a standard text for Scottish schoolchildren for many years. Additionally, Home was among the group who founded the Royal Society of Edinburgh in 1783, highlighting his involvement in the intellectual life of the city. While his work is largely unremembered today, this memorial serves to acknowledge his contributions.

The plaque dates from 1923, a period when there was a clear appreciation for figures like John Home and their literary contributions, particularly those whose works, such as 'Douglas', held a place in educational curricula. Home's play remained a widely used school text until the mid-20th century, specifically the time leading up to the Second World War. That global conflict, which began in 1939 with Germany's invasion of Poland, was a period of immense upheaval and change, ultimately affecting educational practices and the prominence of certain literary works.

This commemorative plaque can be found in Edinburgh, marking the place where Reverend John Home was born. Visitors will observe a simple inscription on a plaque installed by the P&P Club in 1923. It serves as a static historical marker, providing a quiet moment for reflection on the life of an 18th-century Scottish writer.