OS1/15/53/13A

Continued entries/extra info

[Page] 13a

Ordnance Survey Office
27th April 1853.

Revd [Reverend] Sir,
Will you have the goodness
to inform me what was the ancient
name of Herdmanston. Whether
simply Herdmanston, or
Herdmanston Castle?
Is the present house of
Herdmanston part of the ancient
Castle? or is it the ancient one
modernised?
Can you inform me what is
the date of its foundation?
Has it been noted for any
historical event connected
with the Border Wars?
Your answers in the opposite
margin will much oblige.
I have the honour to be
Sir
Your obdt Servt [obedient servant]
Revd [Reverend] Mr McWatt - Henry James

"Hirdmeston" on Tombstone of
Schir William Synclar date 1594.
"Hirdmestoun" on tombstone of Dame
Sibilla Cochborne his Fiance.
without date.
"Hermeston" and "Hermistoun"
in Kirk Session records of Salton
& Deanery of Had: [Haddington] yearly from
1635 downwards to 1660.
I have found no evidence of its being
called a castle.
The ancient house whc [which] formed 2
sides of a square & with the exception
of a tower (War?) at the north-west corner
is still entire - castelates part of
the present mansion and is easily distin-
guisable from the additions from
the great difference in the thickness
of the walls.
Date of the ancient house not known.
One addition forming the other 2 sides
of the square was made by Lord Sinclair
in 1803: another by Lady Sibbils consisting of
bedrooms &c. in 1832.
Not to my knowledge.
James McWatt
Muir of Salton
25 May 1853.