This is the Scottish American Memorial – or The Call – and it is a tribute to the Scots who fought in the First World War. The Call was funded by Scots and people of Scottish descent based in the United States, through an organisation called the Scottish American War Memorial Committee, and is a clear tribute to the sacrifices made by men and women from the donors’ homeland. 

The sculpture – both the kilted man and the frieze behind him – was created by Doctor Robert Tait McKenzie of the University of Pennsylvania. A talented anatomist and medical doctor, McKenzie also found success following the war as a sculptor with an eye for physicality and movement. During the conflict, he had made his own contributions to the war effort, namely by rehabilitating wounded soldiers who had returned from the front line. 

Each year the last Monday in May marks Scottish American Memorial Day. In 2023, a memorial service will be led by Reverend Peter Sutton, Minister for the Parish Church of Saint Cuthbert at 1pm. He will deliver the service at the memorial, and all are welcome to attend.

To find out more, visit the event page on our website or email [email protected]