The Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) this week officially recognised the celebrated poet Robert Burns (1759-1796) for his work as a land surveyor. The bard was awarded the only posthumous membership granted to date at the institution’s Governing Council dinner in Edinburgh.
Portrait of Robert Burns
Burns is a cultural icon and in 2009 was named the greatest ever Scot following a public TV vote. However, while he is recognised internationally for his poetry and song, the only professional training he underwent was as a land surveyor when he was aged 17. This would have included drawing field plans and estate maps and developing a familiarity with the tools of the trade.
A number of surveying chains held in various Scottish museums testify to Burns’ profession which he practiced in Dumfries.
The posthumous recognition was presented to Derek Mackay MSP who accepted it on behalf of the nation. It is expected to be held at the Robert Burns Birthplace Museum in Alloway.
Mr Mackay said; “It is a pleasure to receive this honour of Robert Burns. While his contribution to Scotland and Scottish culture is widely recognised, his work as a surveyor is less well known.
“Like Burns, the work of the surveying profession is a vital part of modern Scottish life and it has been a pleasure to hear more about the work of the profession and its association to the bard.”
Sarah Speir, the director of RICS Scotland, described Burns as “this most talented of Scotsmen” and said there was nowhere better to acknowledge his professional training as a land surveyor than before a global audience in the Scottish capital.
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