The Cowane MansionThe ruined building on the west side of St. Mary’s Wynd, towards the foot, was once one of the most impressive mansions in Stirling, and could still be restored to something of its former grandeur. It has a special claim on the goodwill of the burgh, for it was the residence of one of Stirling’s greatest benefactors, John Cowane, an established historical fact infinitely more interesting than the highly dubious story of its association with Mary, Queen of Scots. The house is of considerable size, with a square staircase tower projecting to the street, and the remains of a corbelled turret at the corner of the north gable. The door and window openings are richly moulded and the interior detail has been of great dignity and refinement. |