Belhelvie
churchyard is located approximately 8 miles to the north of Aberdeen.
The church served the parish of the same name. Sometimes known as
Pettens Kirk and built east-west little remains now but the west gable
containing the belfry, sadly devoid of its bell which went missing in
the 1960's.The graveyard itself contains
about 350 gravestones, mostly dating from the 19th and 20th centuries.
Also of note are two vaults, the smaller of which is partially
underground. The exact purpose of this vault is unclear but is likely to
have its origins from the time of the Resurrectionists - or body
snatchers!
Visiting the site by car you should follow the A92
north of Aberdeen. The churchyard is just beyond the village of Balmedie
on the right. Looking carefully and you will see the top of the old
church building. An access road leads down to the site which is rather
narrow but you should find space to park safely.
I was very lucky on my visit. The weather was
bright and warm with the air still. However that's quite rare and there
is usually a fairly cold breeze coming off the sea so be prepared to
wear warm clothes!
A lovely resting place which is well worth a visit.
Recommended
Interesting Snippet - While
speaking about Belhelvie parish some of you may be interested in the
fact that the Statistical Account of 1845 reported that the then late
minister, the Rev A Forsyth, was the inventor of the percussion cap,
which superseded the flint lock!
If you require a specific gravestone photo from the above send me your relevant details and
I'll e-mail you what I have. Contact me
here
Click on photos below to enlarge
