Sir John de Graeme was the right-hand man of William Wallace, who led the fight for Scottish independence at the battle of Falkirk in 1298. The Scottish army lost this battle largely because of the power of the English archers and crossbowmen. Wallace resigned as Guardian of Scotland thereafter, leaving the way clear for further efforts including the Battle of Bannockburn in 1314.

It is believed that Sir John de Graeme was killed somewhere near where this photograph was taken, in what is now Victoria Park. Wallace, in his grief, carried de Graeme’s body to the nearby Trinity Kirk churchyard.

This memorial, stands in the park, and has recently been joined by a mural, created by Chris Rutterford, painted on the wall of a nearby building. It depicts the moments before the battle and features the faces of over 100 people who helped crowdfund the project.