The Great History of Deans Court
There are many aspects to the history of Deans Court. Below we have gathered key pieces of its story. If you have knowledge to contribute, please do not hesitate to get in touch and add to the rich history we have already assembled.
Photographs kindly provided by Josephine Tomkins, David Jones, and Riccardo Colella.
The Silver Jubilee Booklet
In 2019, John McCabe, a warden of Deans Court from 1975-85, was kind enough to provide the Association with a copy of the booklet created to mark the residence's Silver Jubilee.
This booklet sets forth in detail the history of St. Leonard's College and Deans Court, with information about the building, its creation, its uses, and how it came to be the residence it is today.
Sir James Irvine's Creation
Despite the centuries of history behind the buildings, the University hall of residence that Deans Court now is has a significant amount of its own history spanning the years since its inception in 1930. Irvine's creation has moved with the times, whilst retaining a deep sense of tradition that the residents cherish to this day. We have collected stories from residents, wardens, and staff here, documenting these changes.
The Current Deans Court Shield
Although there have been various designs over the years, the current used in Deans Court merchandise was created in 2018 by David Jones.
The elements incorporated in this shield come from the crests engraved in archways around Deans Court, all of which link to its various uses prior to its acquisition by Sir James Irvine, and information about them can be found here.
Blue Signs
In 2019, two blue signs connected with the Marie Stuart Society were placed on the front walls - one outside Deans Court and one outside the Roundel. These signs help link the buildings with some of their previous owners from the 15th and 16th Centuries - James Haldenstone, and Sir George Douglas of Loch Leven respectively.
Walter Milne
By far the most famous martyr of St Andrews is, of course, the former student Patrick Hamilton. The observant will note the three encircled crosses laid into the roads around town, however. One of these is on the Deans Court driveway, and marks the place that preacher Walter Milne (or Myln) was burned.
The Pilgrim's Way
In 2019, a slab with an ornate brass marker was laid in the footpath ouside Deans Court where it faces the cathedral. This was one of a series laid to mark key stops on the 70 mile route. Deans Court forms the final stop on the route, which is often still trod by pilgrims and ramblers alike.
