Death in the New Town: Edinburgh'S Hidden Story of Stonemasons’ Silicosis

A major epidemic of silicosis and tuberculosis among stonemasons during the construction of Edinburgh's New Town (18th to 19th centuries) is confirmed by historical records and a preserved lung specimen, revealing the deadly impact of high-quartz Craigleith sandstone. The study highlights how prolonged exposure to dusty stonework in unventilated conditions, combined with misplaced employer assurances post-quarry closure, led to widespread illness. Despite awareness of risks, preventive measures were negligible, and this tragic episode remains largely forgotten. The findings underscore the enduring threat of silicosis to stonemasons today, emphasizing the need to learn from historical failures.

Donaldson, K., Wallace, W., Henry, C., & Seaton, A. (2017). Death in the New Town: Edinburgh’S Hidden Story of Stonemasons’ Silicosis. Journal of the Royal College of Physicians of Edinburgh, 47(4), 375–383. https://doi.org/10.4997/jrcpe.2017.416