| History of the Redcliffe |
Built circa 1790 of a unique red grained sandstone,
which is still in evidence today, number one Gordon Terrace only
became a hotel around 50 years ago. Not unaquainted with catering
for guests there is a long history of providing lodgings for visiting
merchants and professionals.
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Its most famous guest is reputedly that of Thomas
Telford, the renowned Scottish Civil Engineer who, during his time
in Inverness overseeing the construction of the Caledonian Canal
(1801-1810) stayed at the Redcliffe. |
| Thomas Telford |
Thomas Telford was born in 1757 at Glendinning, Dumfriesshire
where his father, who died shortly after his birth, was a shepherd.
Raised by his mother, he attended school and served an apprenticeship
to a mason, during which time he learned to carve and build with
stone.
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Amongst his may achievements was the construction
of the Caledonian Canal. Telford’s unique method of construction
was to overcome rather than circumvent obstacles. A more expensive
method but one which produced more durable, long-lasting structures.
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