Edinburgh - Adam Smith

6/18 and 6/20

Brent read Wealth of Nations when he was 10 to 12 years old, and its Scottish author, Adam Smith, had a profound influence on him. Therefore, when we were in Edinburgh where Adam Smith lectured and lived in his later life, we searched out his statue and grave at Canongate Kirkyard.

His statue shows him with a beehive and plough symbolizing his impact on agriculture and industry. He rests his hand on a globe showing his worldwide influence.

While walking in the rain to the statue in front of St. Gile's Cathedral, we enjoyed the street performer juggling fiery torches.

Across from his statue is the Mercat Cross (Market Cross) which both marked the city's right to hold a regular market and served as the location where people would gather to here important announcements. It was not a coincidence that Smith's statue stands at the site of a historical marketplace. It is also near a statue of David Hume who greatly influenced Adam Smith's economic theories.

The unicorn at the top of is Scotland's national animal.

Adam Smith is known as the "Father of Economics". His theories had an enormous impact on free trade and capitalism. People come from all over the world to visit his grave at the Canongate Kirkyard.

Outside the church is a paving stone honoring him.

Small plaques on stepping stones lead travelers to his grave.

Once they arrive, fans honor him with the "Wealth of Nations" by sprinkling a few coins of their local currency on his grave.