Originally the site of St. Mary's Church, the building was demolished in 1755, after having been converted for use as a munitions storehouse. In its place was built the North Barracks which were expanded and renovated to their current appearance in 1863. Following World War I, the building was vacated by the army and was selected as the home for the Scottish National War Memorial. After four years of construction, the building was dedicated by the Prince of Wales (later Edward VIII) on July 14, 1927. Within its walls is a tribute to all Scotsman who have died in defending the nation from World War I to the present day.

