People's Story

People's Story review

With Edinburgh's Tolbooth long since consigned to the annals of history, the Canongate Tolbooth is one of the most emotionally resonant buildings in the Old Town. It's where justice was meted out and prisoners awaited their fate, whether hanging, beheading, branding, burning, transportation or any of the other official punishments of the day. These days it houses the People's Story museum, but visitors are reminded of its history by the tableau of three of the city's less illustrious citizens. The museum also affords a glimpse into the grinding poverty that some of Edinburgh's
citizens endured long into the 20th century, and continue to endure to this day in run-down estates. Take the time to read their testimonials, and a very different side to the city is revealed.