Gilbert Laurie

Gilbert Laurie of Polmont (1729–1809) was an 18th-century Scottish merchant and senior excise officer who twice served as Lord Provost of Edinburgh: from 1766 to 1768 and 1772 to 1774.

For the American lawyer and human rights activist, see Leslie Gilbert-Lurie.

Life

He was born in Polmont in 1729. He was Commissioner of Excise for edinburgh from around 1760.

In 1766 he succeeded James Stuart of Binend as Lord Provost of Edinburgh.

The construction of Edinburgh's New Town began during his term of office.

In 1774 he was living at Baxters Close off the Cowgate in Edinburgh.[1]

In 1784 he was still Commissioner of Excise but lived at Cowgatehead at the east end of the Grassmarket.[2]

In 1784/5 he built or remodelled Polmont House near Falkirk as his main home.[3][4]

He died at Polmont, on 10 September 1787, and is thought to be buried in Polmont Parish Churchyard.

Artistic Recognition

He was portrayed in office around 1768 by David Martin.[5]

Family

He married Katherine Erskine, daughter of the Hon Thomas Erskine, son of Henry Erskine, 3rd Lord Cardross.[6][7]

His daughter, Katherine Laurie married Alexander Marjoribanks of Marjoribanks (1750-1830) in 1790.[8]

Memorials

Laurie Park and Laurie Gardens, both in Falkirk, are named after the Laurie family.[9][10]

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References
  1. Williamsons Edinburgh Directory 1774
  2. Williamsons Edinburgh Directory 1784
  3. https://canmore.org.uk/site/47902/polmont-house
  4. https://www.falkirkherald.co.uk/lifestyle/nostalgia/a-sad-loss-for-polmont-1-2586909
  5. https://artuk.org/discover/artworks/gilbert-laurie-17291809-lord-provost-of-edinburgh-17661768-17721774-93551
  6. http://www.thepeerage.com/p52421.htm#i524205
  7. http://www.clanmacfarlanegenealogy.info/genealogy/TNGWebsite/getperson.php?personID=I67891&tree=CC
  8. https://www.electricscotland.com/history/nation/marjoribanks.htm
  9. http://www.falkirk.gov.uk/places/parks-estates/laurie-park.aspx
  10. https://www.streetlist.co.uk/address/Laurie-Gardens-Falkirk-FK2-0GY


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