Footdee, or the 'Fittie' as it is more commonly known as in Aberdeen, is nothing short of charming. Upon reaching the end of the beach promenade you would be forgive for thinking that there was nothing next to the harbour expect grey, cold stone houses. But if you walk a little way up to get around a wall (and in my case climb over it) and then turn the corner you will be amazed to discover the Fittie that lies before you.
The area itself has been inhabited as far back as the Medieval times but is mostly known for housing the local fishing community of Aberdeen. The Footdee, as a housing development was laid out by John Smith (a well known Aberdonian architect) in 1809 and has since then seen many seafaring families come and go. The rhythmical crashing of waves and the smell of salt reminds you that you are in close proximity to the beach. Although from the narrow streets of the Fittie you cannot see the sea as all the houses face inwards with their backs to the ocean to protect their inhabitants from the weathers cold grasp.
In 1880 the Town Council decided to start selling the houses to their inhabitants and so began a time of reconstruction and individuality in the Fittie. Some people built 'tarry sheds' in the squares of open land that the houses faced. These sheds were originally built from drift wood but over the years some of them have been built and rebuilt using other materials.
But all the houses and sheds have personality.
It jumps out at you in the vibrant colours that scream knock on my door.
It is whispered as you walk by the strangest decorations in the gardens.
It is written in the history of a hard life lived.
It is noticeable in the smallest of details.
It laughs with you at the absurdity of it all.
It smiles back at you as you realise that you just encountered a slice of something out of the ordinary
But shhhhhh don't tell anyone.....
The 'Fittie' is hidden from the public's view by stone walls,
but it's a discovery worth making.
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