From decade to decade down the timeline, rooms include an original copy of the National Covenant signed at Greyfriars Kirk in 1638 and a reconstruction of Field Marshal Earl Haig's headquarters on the Western Front during the Great War, the latter exhibiting items bequeathed to the Museum.

[1] Situated in the late 16th-century Huntly House on the Canongate, the museum is maintained by the City of Edinburgh Council.

In 1570, the Museum of Edinburgh was constructed for notable members of Clan Gordon who resided in Huntly Castle.

[2] His residency is controversial, being considered erroneous by the Royal Commission on the Ancient and Historical Monuments of Scotland.

[3] Subsequently, the Incorporation of Hammermen, a group of metalsmiths, purchased Huntly House in 1647 as their new headquarters and had the building expanded by architect Robert Mylne during their ownership.