Matheson Memorial, Lews Castle, Stornoway, Lewis

The Matheson Memorial, located at Lews Castle in Stornoway, Lewis, was erected in 1880 as a tribute to Sir James Matheson, who owned Lewis from 1844 and was the builder of Lews Castle. Designed in the French Renaissance style, the memorial features a baldacchino with round-arched openings and engaged Corinthian columns at each corner, all raised on a pedestal topped with a leaded dome. Beneath this structure is a white marble pedestal that bears inscriptions, including one stating, "To his memory this monument is erected by his widow, July 1880." Additional inscriptions commemorate Sir James Matheson, detailing his birth on November 17th, 1796, his marriage on November 9th, 1843, and his death on December 31st, 1878, in Mentone, France. One inscription highlights his character, noting that he was "a consistent Christian possessed of those Social virtues conducive to the happiness of others." The memorial also honors Mary Jane Matheson, acknowledging her contributions to benevolent and philanthropic efforts during her husband's life for the benefit of the island of Lewis and its inhabitants.