Speaker - Dennis Hopper 'Scots in Russia'

Stone quarried in Fife was used to construct 17^th century buildings in Russia.

Didn’t know that? Nor did the members of The Rotary Club of St Andrews Kilrymont until the news was delivered in a presentation by Dennis Hopper, a visitor from the sister club, St Andrews Rotary.

Dennis told the audience his interest in the theme of “Scots in Russia” was sparked by a conversation with his wife, who had heard in a talk that the current site of Deep Sea World in North Queensferry had been a quarry from which stone had been transported to St Petersburg for building works.

Further investigation revealed the influence of Scots in Russia has been considerable over a period of almost 400 years. Initially, Scots had a prominent role as mercenaries in the late 16^th century, described in reports of the time as “a nation of strangers, remote, warlike people”.

In 1630 an Aberdeen man became the first general of the Russian Army. His exploits were followed closely by Patrick Gordon who transformed that army into a fighting force, and went on at the request of the current Czar to build the Russian Navy.

By 1735 the Scots influence on martial matters was enormous and Samuel Greig, a native of Inverkeithing, was – after 20 years in the Russian Navy – named Grand Admiral.

Dennis went on to explain the expansion of Scots in Russia included teachers, architects, builders, engineers and a host of other professions and trades.

The construction of palaces ordered by Catherine the Great and her descendants involved the immigration of 73 Scottish tradesmen and their families.

Dennis stated that Scots influence in Russia had been remarkable. For example, standing in a square in St Petersburg, a visitor could gaze at cathedrals, palaces, bridges and other buildings all of which were designed and built by Scots.

In conclusion, he suggested it was little wonder that Rabbie Burns, given his Scottish heritage, had become such a respected and loved figure by Russians.

The vote of thanks for a fascinating talk was given by Anne Tait.