A Glimpse into Edinburgh's Student Life in the 1950s and 1960s

Strategic Insights -

Around 60 years ago, students in Edinburgh were involved in a range of activities, including charity fundraising stunts, protests, and social events. The Evening News archives contain photographs and stories of these events, offering a unique glimpse into student life during this time. From "horizontal climbing" to smashing up pianos, students were creative in their fundraising efforts, while protests focused on issues such as the Vietnam war and housing campaigns.

Key Takeaways:

  • Students in Edinburgh in the 1950s and 1960s were actively involved in charity fundraising, with stunts including "horizontal climbing," smashing up pianos, and walking from London to Edinburgh with an egg in a pram.
  • The Rectorial election had become a significant event, with students engaging in protests and demonstrations over issues such as the Vietnam war and housing campaigns.
  • Students protested in support of causes like Shelter, a charity focused on housing and homelessness, with events including a National Fast for Peace in Vietnam.
  • The student population was also involved in social events, such as the Edinburgh College of Art's annual Revel, where students would dress up and participate in activities.
  • Notable figures from this period include Nobel laureate Sir Alexander Fleming, who was carried by students from the McEwan Hall after being installed as Rector of Edinburgh University in 1951.
  • Students also played a role in raising awareness and funds for various causes, with events such as the Edinburgh Students Charities Appeal, which featured stunts like "Pistols at Dawn" in Princes Street.
  • The student population was growing, with an increase in the number of female students, as seen in photographs from the time.
  • The university's library was expanding, with the construction of new facilities, as seen in the photograph of the library in George Square.

Sources:

  • "Retro: 33 Amazing Pictures of Student Life in the 1980s, Including Prams, Pies and Protests" (Edinburgh News)
  • "Retro: 31 Fascinating Photos of the City's Roads, Cars and Traffic in the 1970s" (Edinburgh News)
  • "Retro: 37 Great Pictures of Summer Scenes in the Capital from the 1960s and 1970s" (Edinburgh News)
  • "Retro: 21 Fascinating Pictures of People at Work in the Late 1980s from Laundrette to Lighthouse and Track Laying to Tapestry" (Edinburgh News)
  • "Retro: 25 Fascinating Photos of Student Life in the 1970s from Sit-ins to Banquets" (Edinburgh News)
  • "Retro: 29 Fascinating Photos of Edinburgh at Work in the 1950s and 1960s, Factories, Offices, Farms and More" (Edinburgh News)