Discover the fascinating stories behind Aberdeenshire's unique sculptures and landmarks.
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Exploring the hidden gems of Aberdeenshire: The Ellon hippo and beyond
Aberdeenshire, a region known for its stunning landscapes and rich history, is home to a variety of quirky sculptures and landmarks that often go unnoticed. One such gem is the elusive ‘Ellon hippo,’ a sculpture that has sparked curiosity among locals and visitors alike.
This article delves into the story behind the Ellon hippo, its origins, and other fascinating discoveries in the area.
The search for the Ellon hippo
Recently, I embarked on a quest to find the Ellon hippo after stumbling upon discussions about it on social media.
Many claimed it was one of the iconic sculptures created by artist Stanley Bonnar in the 1970s, originally intended for the town of Glenrothes. Intrigued by these claims, I set out to uncover the truth. With my loyal Labrador puppy, Dante, by my side, we decided to make a day of it, enjoying the beautiful Aberdeenshire countryside.
Parking near Auchmacoy Mission Hall, we strolled down a peaceful grassy lane towards the River Ythan. This serene area, away from the hustle and bustle of daily life, is perfect for birdwatching and enjoying nature. However, my plans for Dante to take a refreshing dip in the river quickly turned into a muddy mishap, as he found himself covered in muck before even reaching the water’s edge.
Uncovering the history of the Logie Buchan war memorial bridge
Instead of the river, we made our way to the Logie Buchan war memorial bridge, built in 1935. This bridge is adorned with bronze plaques honoring locals who lost their lives in the World Wars. It’s fascinating to think that before this bridge was constructed, a ferry transported people across the river, with remnants of the old jetties still visible today. The stunning views from the bridge, coupled with the chance to spot swans and ducks, made for a delightful experience.
Continuing our journey, we passed the quaint parish church of Logie Buchan, surrounded by rolling hills and lush fields. The graveyard, steeped in history, adds to the charm of this picturesque setting. However, my search for the Ellon hippo was still on my mind. After wandering through the tiny hamlet of Kirkton of Logie Buchan without encountering anyone to ask about the hippo’s whereabouts, I decided to follow a road flanked by ancient drystane dykes.
The mystery of the Ellon hippo’s origins
After a half-mile trek uphill, I finally spotted the Ellon hippo nestled within a gated woodland enclosure. My excitement was palpable, akin to discovering a long-lost treasure. However, the mystery surrounding this sculpture deepened when I learned that it is not one of Stanley Bonnar’s creations, as I initially believed. After reaching out to the artist, he confirmed that the hippo was not his work, although he mentioned being approached by sculptor Denis Barnes to collaborate on similar projects in the past.
Despite my efforts to contact Denis Barnes for more information, the origins of the Ellon hippo remain elusive. This only adds to the charm of Aberdeenshire, where hidden stories and local legends abound. Alongside the hippo, I also learned about a lesser-known ‘pyramid’ sculpture nearby, commissioned as a millennium project. This intriguing structure, split into two halves, symbolizes the transition from the old century to the new, showcasing the creativity and artistic spirit of the region.
Aberdeenshire is a treasure trove of unique sculptures and landmarks waiting to be discovered. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, taking the time to explore these hidden gems can lead to delightful surprises and a deeper appreciation for the area’s rich cultural heritage.
