Robert Cranston

Who was Robert Cranston?

Robert Cranston was a Lord Provost of Edinburgh from 1903 to 1906. He had an illustrious military career largely affiliated to volunteer battalions.

In 1914 he set up the first Edinburgh Pals battalion; the 15th battalion Royal Scots. This was quickly followed by two further volunteer battalions; the 16th and 17th. Sir Robert was honorary commander in chief of all three battalions.

He was awarded the freedom of the city of Edinburgh on 15 October 1923, shortly before his death.

He died at home at 19 Merchiston Avenue Edinburgh following a brief illness and was buried with full military honours in the Grange Cemetery following a service in St. Giles Cathedral.