The Granite City – Aberdeen’s Granite Industry by Michael Dey

The Granite City
Aberdeen’s Granite Industry
By Michael Dey

Overview

Aberdeen is the Granite City. Even in the twenty-first century when concrete, steel and glass are more likely to be the buildings materials of choice, the center of Aberdeen still proudly shows a granite face to the world. The buildings remain as a reminder of what was once a major industry employing thousands across the north-east of Scotland, exporting stone to all parts of Britain as well as distant overseas markets. Stretching from the 18th to the later part of the the 20th century, this is a tale of how Aberdeen granite came from humble beginnings as a paving material for the streets of London to become the stone of choice for architecture, great engineering projects, war memorials, and more.

About the Author

Michael Dey graduated in history and on completion of a doctorate went on to work in the museum service in Aberdeen specializing in social and industrial history, including the granite trade in North East Scotland. He has previously contributed to a number of articles and books.