Robert Louis Stevenson 1850–1894
Treasure Map from Treasure Island – based on the Island of Fidra?
The Stevensons’ section plan for Fidra Lighthouse, 1882 © Northern Lighthouse Board
A Roving Imagination
Robert Louis Stevenson is one of Scotland’s greatest authors. Although he lived abroad most of his life, he based some of his best work, such as Treasure Island and Catriona on his childhood memories of the East Lothian coast. He spent many of his childhood holidays in North Berwick and his wider family still has strong connections with the area.
His tales about our coast included:
1863 The Wreckers (in the School Boys Magazine No. 1)
1879 Pavilion on the Links
1885 Various Poems
1887 The Lantern-Bearers
1892 Catriona (known as David Balfour in US)
We have detailed exhibits in the museum exploring Robert Louis’ childhood experiences on the East Lothian coast and the legacy of his family – the distinguished Stevenson lighthouse engineers who shaped our coastal waters. They were responsible for the design and construction of most of Scotland’s lighthouses, including the Isle of May, Fidra and Bass Rock.
Fidra Lighthouse, Island of Fidra © ELCMS
The Stevensons were interested in the improvement of many of Scotland’s harbours. Their connection with North Berwick’s harbour dates back at least to 1811, when Robert wrote a letter to Sir Hew Dalrymple Hamilton suggesting some much-needed development. Years later, in 1845, his son David drew up plans proposing an extension to the harbour. You can see the original letter and harbour plan in the museum.
Click here to go on a RLS inspired Treasure Hunt.
Discover local walks and hikes
Stevenson was a keen walker and often wrote about his own journeys on foot; long walks were a very Victorian pastime. We have partnered with the official Robert Louis Stevenson website of The Lothians to enable our visitors to discover local walks and hikes that are still easily recognisable as places from Stevenson’s childhood: