Any visitor to Aberdeen, frequently described as the Granite City due to the fact that of the stone it is built out of, can ask a homeowner for the area of “Kelly’s Cats” and they will more than likely be pointed in the instructions of the Union Bridge. An overpass situated on Union Street permits safe passage over the Den Burn Valley and its functional train line some 50 feet listed below.
Aberdeen’s Union Bridge is the biggest single-span granite bridge on the planet, at 130 feet (40 meters). When it was integrated in the early 19th century, the style consisted of no cats at all. However at the start of the 20th century, the bridge was expanded, and brand-new ornamental components were included along the edges of the brand-new path.
What may not be understood to lots of is that the name provided to this row of cast iron cats misidentifies their developer. City designer William Kelly commissioned a series of cast iron leopards that would stand along the balustrade of the bridge, and with time they ended up being called Kelly’s Cats. There are some who would state that the label is a misnomer—though Kelly commissioned the sculptures, it was the artist Sidney Boyes who is genuinely accountable for developing the appearance of the lots leopards that are associated with the seal of the city, and for the frieze of toga-wearing gods and goddesses found at its center.
Since the 1400s, Aberdeen’s Coat of Arms has consisted of three towers surrounded by a pair of fleurs-de-lis, above this is the motto “Good agreement,” French for “Good Agreement.” This saying refers to the secret password that the soldiers of Robert the Bruce used as they retook Aberdeen Castle back from the English. On either side of this banner are a pair of leopards. They are said to represent a gift that James I gave to the city as reimbursement for their financial aid when he was held captive by the English.
Kelly’s Cats continue to be a source of public pride as well as a civic nuisance. There are some that state the bodies of the big cats should be facing inwards rather than outwards. There are others that state they need to be eliminated completely. However as long as they stand these solemn sentries will continue to watch the residents of and the traveler to Granite City. Simply keep in mind to whisper “Bon Accord” as you go by.