kids encyclopedia robot

Elphinstone, East Lothian facts for kids

Kids Encyclopedia Facts
Quick facts for kids
Elphinstone
Main Street, Elphinstone - geograph.org.uk - 4341910.jpg
Elphinstone is located in Scotland
Elphinstone
Elphinstone
Population 590 (2020)
OS grid reference NT396702
Council area
  • East Lothian Council
Lieutenancy area
Country Scotland
Sovereign state United Kingdom
Post town TRANENT
Postcode district EH33
Dialling code 01875
Ambulance Scottish
EU Parliament Scotland
UK Parliament
  • East Lothian
Scottish Parliament
  • East Lothian
List of places
UK
Scotland
55°55′19″N 2°57′58″W / 55.922°N 2.966°W / 55.922; -2.966

Elphinstone is a small village in East Lothian, Scotland. It is located southwest of a town called Tranent. Near the village, you can find the old ruins of Elphinstone Tower. This tower was once the home of the important Elphinstone family.

What Does Elphinstone Mean?

The name Elphinstone was first written down in the 1200s. It might mean "Ælfwine's estate." This comes from an old English phrase, Ælfwinestun.

There is also a fun local fairy tale about the name. It says the village was named after an elf. This elf was trapped in stone by a witch he had upset!

A Glimpse into Elphinstone's Past

In 1546, a famous religious reformer named George Wishart was brought through Elphinstone. He was on his way to St Andrews where he faced a trial.

Between 2011 and 2018, the number of people living in Elphinstone grew. The population went from 520 to 590 residents.

What Can You Find in Elphinstone Today?

Elphinstone has some helpful places for its residents. These include a primary school for younger students. There is also a community centre where people can gather. You can find a newsagent for daily needs and a miners welfare club.

Elphinstone's Landmarks and Jobs

Exploring Elphinstone Tower

Remains of Elphinstone Tower (geograph 1961775)
The remains of Elphinstone Tower

About half a mile west of the village are the ruins of Elphinstone Tower. This tower was built a long time ago, between the 1200s and 1400s. It used to be five storeys tall. Now, only the lowest level remains. The Elphinstone family, who lived in the area, took their name from these lands.

Work and Economy in Elphinstone

In the past, the main jobs in Elphinstone were in the mines. These mines were owned by the Edinburgh Colliery Company, Limited. Many of the houses in the village were also owned by this company.

Today, a company called Inveresk Research International is one of the main employers nearby. Elphinstone Tower Farm also helps the local economy. It grows different types of cereal crops.

See also

Kids robot.svg In Spanish: Elphinstone para niños

kids search engine
Elphinstone, East Lothian Facts for Kids. Kiddle Encyclopedia.