Cupar

Cupar, Fife, Scotland

Introduction

This evening, I am focusing on the town of Cupar in eastern Scotland. This town lies about 10 miles west of St. Andrews.

Information on Cupar

Cupar has a population of some 9,000. It impresses as a prosperous town and benefits from good road and rail communication links.

Antiquity of the town is reflected in the actual name which is believed to be of Pictish origin. The name indicates the confluence of two rivers, the Eden and Ladyburn. The etymology suggests the town’s origins dating back as far as the 7th or 8th centuries.

By the 13th century a substantial and strategically important castle existed at Cupar. However, after oscillating between Scots and English control, it was destroyed in the 14th century and never rebuilt.

Cupar’s wealth and importance derived from its role as a place for markets and fairs. During the 18th century hand-loom weaving was important. By 1793 Cupar was producing about 500,000 yards of linen.

Although close to popular visitor sites on the Fife Coast and St. Andrews, Cupar retains its importance as a regional commercial centre. Cupar is also the home of administrative functions for the local (Fife) area.

As will be evident from the images below, Cupar boasts a good selection of interesting and historic architecture. Close by is the historic house known as Hill of Tarvit.

The statue below represents David M.M. Crichton (1801-51) who was of radical disposition. He was a Free Church supporter and leader of a successful campaign to have a bridge crossing over the railway instead of a level crossing. The statue is positioned close to the bridge which he advocated.

Crichton Statue