James Durie

James Durie, son of George Durie and Mary Elisabeth Taylor, was born on April 26, 1824, in Inveresk with Musselburgh, Midlothian, Scotland. George and Mary raised six children: William Durie, James Durie, Agnes Durie, Elizabeth Durie, John Durie, and Robert Durie. 

James is my husband’s 2nd great-grandfather, with their nearest common ancestor being James’ daughter Jemima, my husband’s great-grandmother.

James was baptized on May 30, 1824, at Inveresk with Musselburgh, in a ceremony witnessed by John Paul and John Braidfoot. The parish, situated near Edinburgh, blended village and town life and was closely tied to the region’s coastal economy.

Birth and baptism record

James’ brother William enlisted in the military on February 13, 1837, despite being only 14 years old. I will share more about William’s life and service in my next post.

By 1841, the Durie family appears across three separate census pages. James’ father, George, was living alone at the West Pans Tollhouse, where he worked as a tollkeeper. The tollhouse—a small roadside cottage built by the turnpike trust—was designed for constant duty rather than family living. With its angled frontage and bay window, George would have monitored passing traffic and collected fees for carts, horses, and pedestrians. Its cramped interior explains why he lived there alone while his family remained nearby.

Mary and the children—James, Agnes, Elizabeth, John, and Robert—lived less than a mile away on High Street in Musselburgh. James, age 16, was recorded as an apprentice “c/wright,” almost certainly a coachwright. This trade, combining woodworking with ironwork, was a natural entry point into Glasgow’s expanding transport and engineering industries. William, the eldest brother, does not appear in the household, likely absent with his military unit.

George in the 1841 Scotland census

Elisabeth in the 1841 Scotland census

James and four of his siblings in the 1841 Scotland census

James married Jane Liddell Braidwood, daughter of Andrew Braidwood and Mary Liddell, on May 13, 1849, in Glasgow. At the time, James was working as an engineer. The couple welcomed nine children: Mary Durie, Agnes Durie, Elizabeth Durie, George Durie, Jemima Durie, Andrewina Durie, John Durie, Robert Durie, and Jane Durie. Their first child, Mary, was born on September 14, 1849, with John Braidwood and John Durie serving as witnesses.

James and Jane in the Scotland marriage register

By 1851, James had transitioned fully into engineering, a natural progression from his coachwright apprenticeship. The family lived at 67–69 Carrick Street in the St. George civil parish of Glasgow. James’ sister‑in‑law, Jessie Braidwood, age 21, was also living with them, likely working as a boy’s clothing maker.

1851 Scotland census

James’ brother William, a private in the 72nd Regiment of Foot (The Duke of Albany’s Own Highlanders), died on April 8, 1853, and was buried at Sandymount Cemetery in Glasgow.

James’ father, George, died of apoplexy on February 10, 1857, at 53 Cadogan Street in the Blythswood district. He had worked as a cotton storekeeper and was buried at Southern Necropolis Cemetery in Glasgow.

In 1861, the Durie family lived at 62 Brown Street in the Clyde District of St. George Parish. James, age 36, was working as an engine smith—crafting and repairing engine parts during Glasgow’s industrial boom.

1861 Scotland census

Tragedy struck that spring when two‑year‑old Andrewina died on May 26, 1861, after six weeks of dothinenteritis (typhoid fever) and two weeks of “water in the head,” likely hydrocephalus. She was buried at Eastern Necropolis in Lair 4964, held by her maternal grandfather, Andrew Braidwood.

James continued working as an engine fitter/journeyman, and by February 6, 1863, the family was living at 22 Pitt Street in Blythswood, Glasgow, where their son Robert was born.

James’ mother, Mary, died two years later on July 13, 1865, at her Cadogan Street home at age 69. Despite searches of Southern Necropolis and other Glasgow cemeteries, her burial place has not yet been identified. A notice of her death appeared in The Herald on July 15.

Another loss followed on November 6, 1866, when James and Jane’s youngest daughter, Jane, died of croup after only two days of illness. Her burial location remains unknown.

By 1871, the family remained at Pitt Street in a two‑window tenement. James continued as an engine fitter, while daughters Mary and Jemima worked as warehouse girls. George was an iron turner, and the younger boys attended school. A Liddell family also lived at the address, possibly relatives of Jane’s mother.

1871 Scotland census

The Durie children began forming their own families in the 1870s. Elizabeth married John Alexander in 1873, and Jemima married James Athya in 1877. By 1881, the family had moved to 46 Lancefield Street in Barony Parish. James was still an engine fitter, and his son Robert had become a plumber. James’ grandson Thomas Alexander, age 8, was also living with them, and was attending school.

1881 Scotland census

James’ son John married Annie Frew in 1881 and had three children—James, Jane, and Annie. Sadly, baby Jane died before her first birthday, and his wife Annie died sometime after 1890.

In 1886, James and Jane were listed in parochial relief records when their daughter Jemima applied for assistance in Cambusnethan.

Robert married Mary Lochhead on February 15, 1889, with James recorded as a journeyman engine fitter.

In 1891, James and Jane lived at 99 Hotcross Street in Barony Parish with their widowed son John and grandchildren James and Annie. James, now a marine engine fitter, continued working well into his later years.

1891 Scotland census

James’ sister Elizabeth died on May 2, 1897, in Kelvin, Lanarkshire, after several months of declining health following what would now be understood as a stroke. She was buried in Lair 974 at Western Necropolis Cemetery. His sister Agnes died on August 22, 1900, in Helensburgh, Row Parish, and was buried in Lair 973 at Western Necropolis. She never married.

In 1901, James and Jane lived at 33 McIntyre Street in Barony Parish with their son John and his children. James, age 77, was still working as a marine engine fitter. His grandson James was apprenticed in the same trade, while Annie attended school.

1901 Scotland census

James died at home on December 13, 1902, from a cerebral hemorrhage and senile decay. His son John was the informant on the death register.

James in the Scotland burial register

James was buried on December 16 at Eastern Necropolis Cemetery in Lair 384, compartment 13, at a depth of 10 feet. The lair, purchased by his son John, became a family resting place. Those buried with him include:

• Catherine Durie (granddaughter, died 1908)
• Jane Durie (wife, died 1908)
• Elizabeth Alexander (daughter, died 1911)
• Mary Durie (believed to be John’s daughter, died 1927)
• John Durie (son, died 1928)

 

Eastern Necropolis Cemetery burial register (see John on both line of both pages)

Lair 384 register

References

• Agnes Durie, Statutory Registers Deaths 503/109, National Records of Scotland, 1900.
• Andrina Durie, Statutory Registers Deaths 644/5 442, National Records of Scotland, 1861.
• Andrwine Durie, Glasgow, Scotland, Burial Records 1855–1861, image 236, FamilySearch.
• Daily interment books, December 1897-August 1912, cemetery records for Eastern Necropolis Cemetery, Glasgow, 1861-1995, film no. 008685206, image 333, FamilySearch.
• Deaths, Mrs. George Durie, The Herald, Glasgow, Scotland, July 15, 1865.
• Eastern Necropolis: Glasgow, Scotland, Cemetery Records 1900–1995, image 41, FamilySearch.
• Elisabeth Durie, Census 689/12/5, National Records of Scotland, 1841.
• Elizabeth Durie, Statutory Registers Deaths 644/6 358, National Records of Scotland, 1865.
• Elizabeth Durie, Statutory Registers Marriages 644/9 127, National Records of Scotland, 1873.
• Elizabeth Morris, Statutory Registers Deaths 644/9 551, National Records of Scotland, 1897.
• George Durie, Census 689/9/1, National Records of Scotland, 1841.
• George Durie, Statutory Registers Deaths 644/6 86, National Records of Scotland, 1857.
• Glasgow, Scotland, Burial Records 1850–1854, images 207–208, FamilySearch.
• Glasgow, Scotland, Burial Records January 1882–March 1900, image 274, FamilySearch.
• James Athya, Statutory Registers Marriages 644/12 176, National Records of Scotland, 1877.
• James Durie, Census 644/1 47/15, National Records of Scotland, 1851.
• James Durie, Census 644/10 30/20, National Records of Scotland, 1881.
• James Durie, Census 644/5 55/7, National Records of Scotland, 1861.
• James Durie, Census 644/69/19, National Records of Scotland, 1871.
• James Durie, Census 689/12/7, National Records of Scotland, 1841.
• James Durie, Census 689/12/7, National Records of Scotland, 1841.
• James Durie, Old Parish Registers Births 689/Inveresk and Musselburgh, 1824.
• James Durie, Scotland, Select Births and Baptisms, 1564–1950.
• James Durie, Statutory Registers Deaths 644/10 734, National Records of Scotland, 1902.
• Jane Braidwood, Old Parish Registers Marriages 644/1 Glasgow, National Records of Scotland, 1849.
• Jane Durie, Statutory Registers Deaths 644/6 504, National Records of Scotland, 1866.
• Jemima Durie (or Athya), Cambusnethan. Parish Poor Law Records 1886–1887, image 180, FamilySearch.
• Jemima Durie, Census 644/5 55/8, National Records of Scotland, 1861.
• John Durie, Census 644/10 13/10, National Records of Scotland, 1901.
• John Durie, Census 644/10 17/3, National Records of Scotland, 1891.
• Mary Durie, Old Parish Registers Births 644/1 Glasgow, National Records of Scotland, 1849.
• William Durie, Old Parish Registers Births 689/Inveresk and Musselburgh, National Records of Scotland, 1821.
• William Durie, UK, Royal Hospital Chelsea Pensioner Admissions and Discharges, 1715–1925.
• Wm. Durie, UK, Royal Hospital Chelsea Admission Books, Registers and Papers, 1702–1980. 

Robert Durie

Robert Durie, son of James Durie and Jane Liddell Braidwood, was born at home on February 6, 1863, at 22 Pitt Street in Blythswood, Glasgow, Lanarkshire, Scotland. He was one of at least nine children born to James and Jane: Mary Durie, Agnes Durie, Elizabeth Durie, George Durie, Jemima Durie, Andrewina Durie, John Durie, Robert Durie, and Jane Durie. Robert is my husband’s 2nd great-uncle, with their closest shared ancestors being Robert’s parents—James and Jane—who are also my husband’s 2nd great-grandparents. Robert’s sister Jemima is my husband’s great-grandmother.

Robert in the Scotland birth register

At the time of Robert’s birth, his father James worked as an engine fitter (journeyman), a skilled tradesman responsible for assembling and maintaining steam engines—an essential role in Glasgow’s industrial economy.

Tragedy struck the Durie family before Robert was born. In the spring of 1861, young Andrewina contracted dothinenteritis (typhoid fever) and suffered for six weeks, also developing “water in the head” (likely hydrocephalus) in her final two weeks. She died at home on May 26 and was buried at Eastern Necropolis Cemetery in Glasgow, Lair 4964, held by her maternal grandfather, Andrew Braidwood.

Another loss followed just a few years later. On November 6, 1866, Robert’s sister Jane died of croup at the family’s Pitt Street home. Robert was only three years old.

By 1871, the Durie family remained at the Pitt Street address, likely in a tenement-style building. Their home had two windows. James continued his work as an engine fitter. Daughters Mary and Jemima were employed as warehouse girls, while George worked as an iron turner. Robert and his brother John were attending school. A family named Liddell also lived at the same address, possibly related through Robert’s grandmother, Mary Liddell.

1871 Scotland census

By 1881, the family had moved to 46 Lancefield Street in the civil parish of Barony, Glasgow. The home, also likely a tenement, had two windows. James was still working as an engine fitter, and 17-year-old Robert had begun his career as a plumber. Also living in the household was Robert’s nephew, Thomas Alexander (age 8), son of Robert’s sister Elizabeth, who was attending school.

1881 Scotland census

On February 15, 1889, Robert married Mary Lochhead, daughter of Robert Lochhead and Helen (or Ellen) Ramage. The ceremony took place at Mary’s family home at 128 Centre Street in Tradeston, Glasgow, and was officiated by John Hunter of Trinity Congregational Church. Witnesses included William Cocran and Janet Lochhead. At the time, Robert lived at 99 Stobcross Street and had completed his training as a plumber, achieving journeyman status. His father and Mary’s father were also journeymen—James as an engine fitter and Robert Lochhead as a mason.

Robert and Mary in the Scotland marriage register

Five months later, on July 3, 1889, Robert and Mary welcomed their first child, Helen Ramage Durie, at their home at 38 Catherine Street in Anderston. Tragically, Helen died just three weeks later on July 24, 1889, from scrofula—a form of tuberculosis affecting the lymph nodes. The cemetery register listed her cause of death as diarrhea. She was buried at Craigton Cemetery in Lair 1422, held by her maternal grandmother, Helen Ramage Lochhead.

On April 3, 1890, their daughter Maria Durie was born prematurely and lived only four hours. Her burial location remains unknown.

By 1891, Robert and Mary were still living at Catherine Street. Robert was employed as a ship plumber, and the census noted their home had two rooms with windows. Mary’s younger brother, James Lochhead (age 16), lived with them as a lodger and apprentice plumber—likely training under Robert.

1891 Scotland census

The Durie family continued to grow:

• James Durie was born on May 10, 1891, at Catherine Street.
• Robert Lochhead Durie followed on February 15, 1893.
• By October 20, 1894, when Jane Braidwood Durie was born, the family had moved to 48 Overnewton Street in Anderston.
• Mary Lochhead Durie was born at the same address on February 7, 1897.

By 1900, the family relocated to 6 Arthur Street in the Seventh Parish Ward of Barony, Glasgow. Their home had two rooms with a window. Robert continued working as a ship plumber, and by the 1901 census, sons James and Robert and daughter Jane were attending school.

1901 Scotland census

On December 13, 1902, Robert’s father James passed away in Anderston from a cerebral hemorrhage. He was buried at Eastern Necropolis Cemetery in Lair 384 on December 16. His wife Jane died on October 28, 1908, from senile cardiac arteriosclerosis—what we now understand as age-related coronary artery disease. She was laid to rest alongside James on October 31.

By 1911, the Durie family was living at 7 Grace Drive in Govan, Glasgow. The census, spanning two pages, recorded that Mary had given birth to six children, four of whom were still living. Their home had three rooms with windows. Robert was still employed as a ship plumber. Son James worked as a leather cutter in a boot factory, while Robert Jr. was a shipyard carpenter. Daughter Jane held the specialized role of a gut drawer in a fishing and tackle factory, preparing animal intestines for use in fishing lines. The youngest, Mary, was still in school.

1911 Scotland census

On February 23, 1911, Robert’s sister Elizabeth (Durie) Alexander died at 40 Overnewton Street in Anderston. She had suffered from hemiplegia, likely caused by a stroke, for three years. Elizabeth was buried in Lair 384 at Eastern Necropolis Cemetery on February 25.

A joyful occasion followed on December 31, 1915, when Robert’s son James married Mary Montgomery at 50 Harmony Row in Govan. James, a 24-year-old leather cutter, lived at 21 Hutton Drive—likely the Durie family home. Mary, also 24, was the daughter of William Montgomery and Jane Knox and lived at 5 Sharp Street. The ceremony was performed by John King, Minister of the United Free Church, and witnessed by Robert Durie (likely James’ father or brother) and Elizabeth McNamara. James and Mary welcomed their daughter, Mary Lochhead Durie, on October 20, 1916, in Govan.

The year 1920 brought two joyful milestones for the Durie family. On August 6, Robert’s daughter Jane Durie married Douglas William Hamilton at the family home on Hutton Drive in Govan. Jane, employed as a boot machinist, worked in a skilled trade operating industrial sewing machines to assemble footwear. Douglas, son of Alexander Hamilton and Annie Taylor, was a quay labourer’s time-keeper, responsible for recording the hours and attendance of dockworkers at Glasgow’s busy quays—ensuring efficient coordination of labor for loading and unloading ships. He lived at 55 Kelvinhaugh Street. The ceremony was witnessed by Robert Murray and Jane’s sister Mary Durie. Interestingly, the marriage register recorded Jane’s name as Jeanie Bradewood Durie, a variation from her birth name, Jane Braidwood Durie.

Later that year, on December 31, Robert’s son Robert Durie Jr. married Helen McNeil, daughter of John McNeil and Helen McCrink. Robert, a journeyman shipwright, lived at 1259 Govan Road, while Helen, a confectioner’s saleswoman, resided at 20 Craigton Road, both in Govan. Their New Year’s Eve wedding took place at the United Free Church on Copland Road, witnessed by William McNeill (likely Helen’s brother) and Robert’s sister Mary Durie.

By 1921, Robert, his wife Mary, and daughter Mary were living at 1259 Govan Road in Govan. Their home had three rooms, and Robert continued working as a ship plumber. Daughter Mary was employed as a fancy box maker, likely producing decorative packaging for retail goods—a common trade in Glasgow’s manufacturing sector.

 

1921 Scotland census

The 1921 electoral register listed Robert, Mary, and their son Robert at the Govan Road address. Robert Jr. was recorded with the suffix “Jr.,” though there’s no evidence that father and son shared the same middle name. Robert Jr.’s birth certificate confirms his middle name as Lochhead, taken from his mother’s maiden name.

In the years that followed, the family experienced several losses. Robert’s sister Mary (Durie) Wark, aged 72, died at home in Anderston on October 18, 1922, from chronic bronchitis and a tumor of the left breast, the nature of which was unknown. His sister Jemima (Durie) Athya passed away in Dennistoun, Glasgow, at age 66 on November 19, 1925, from a cerebral hemorrhage. She was buried in Lair 860 at Southern Necropolis Cemetery on November 21.

On March 28, 1926, Robert’s wife Mary Lochhead Durie died at 1249 Govan Road from double pneumonia, which she had suffered for just two days. The address differs slightly from their 1921 residence, suggesting they may have moved within the same tenement or she was staying elsewhere at the time.

Mary in the Scotland death register

Mary was laid to rest on March 30 in Lair 2146, Compartment HH, at Craigton Cemetery. She received a Class A funeral, indicating a more dignified and lasting burial—either due to financial means or the family’s desire to honor her memory

Mary in the Craigton Cemetery burial register

Just three and a half months later, on June 13, 1926, Robert’s daughter Jane died at age 31 in Govan from valvular heart disease, which she had endured for six months. She was buried on June 16 in the same lair as her mother at Craigton Cemetery, also receiving a Class A funeral.

Robert’s brother John Durie died at age 66 on December 11, 1928, from intestinal obstruction and cardiac failure at the Western Infirmary in Hillhead, Glasgow. He was buried on December 14 in Lair 384 at Eastern Necropolis Cemetery.

Robert himself passed away on April 11, 1931, at Southern General Hospital in Govan at age 68. His cause of death was listed as cerebral softening—likely the result of a stroke or poor blood flow—and hypostatic pneumonia, a lung infection common in bedridden patients. These conditions suggest Robert had been seriously ill and immobile in his final days. His son James Durie was the informant on the death register. At the time, Robert’s usual residence was 3 Drive Road, Govan.

Robert in the Scotland death register

Robert was buried on April 14, 1931, at Craigton Cemetery, joining his wife and daughter Jane in Lair 2146. Like them, he received a Class A funeral.

Robert in the Craigton Cemetery burial register

The cemetery certificate (No. 26808) records the depth of each burial: Mary at eight feet, Jane at seven, and Robert at six. The lair fee of £4:10s in 1931—equivalent to roughly $450 USD today—reflects the cost and care associated with a permanent and respectful burial.

Craigton Cemetery certificate no. 26808

References

• Andrina Durie, Statutory Registers Deaths 644/5 442, National Records of Scotland, 1861.
• Andrina Durie, Weekly interment book, nos. 1–8950, 1855–1861, weekly installments paid on lairs, 1901–1963, Eastern Necropolis Cemetery, Glasgow, Lanarkshire, Scotland, image 236, FamilySearch.
• Cemetery records for Craigton Cemetery, Glasgow, 1873-2003, Register of interments, vol. 1, 1873-1879; vol. 3, 1885-1891, images 668–669, FamilySearch.
• Douglas William Hamilton, Statutory Registers Marriages 644/21 285, National Records of Scotland, 1920.
• Elizabeth Alexander, Daily interment books, December 1897–August 1912, Eastern Necropolis Cemetery, Glasgow, Lanarkshire, Scotland, image 759, FamilySearch.
• Elizabeth Durie, Statutory registers Deaths 644/11 103, National Records of Scotland, 1911.
• Glasgow, Lanarkshire, Scotland, Electoral Registers, 1857–1962, 1900.
• Helen Ramage Durie, Statutory Registers Births 644/10 883, National Records of Scotland, 1889.
• Helen Ramage Durie, Statutory Registers Deaths 644/10 562, National Records of Scotland, 1889.
• James Durie, Eastern Necropolis Cemetery, Glasgow, Scotland, Burial Records 1902–1906, image 59, FamilySearch.
• James Durie, Statutory Registers Births 644/10 682, National Records of Scotland, 1891.
• James Durie, Statutory Registers Deaths 644/10 734, National Records of Scotland, 1902.
• James Durie, Statutory Registers Marriages 644/21 33, National Records of Scotland, 1916.
• Jane Braidwood, Statutory Registers Births 644/10 1325, National Records of Scotland, 1894.
• Jane Durie, Statutory Registers Births 644/6 475, National Records of Scotland, 1865.
• Jane Durie, Statutory Registers Deaths 644/21 689, National Records of Scotland, 1926.
• Jane Durie, Statutory Registers Deaths 644/6 504, National Records of Scotland, 1866.
• Jane Durie, Statutory Registers Deaths 644/6 881, National Records of Scotland, 1908.
• Janes Durie, Eastern Necropolis Cemetery, Glasgow, Scotland, Burial Records 1906–1912, image 102, FamilySearch.
• Jemima Athya, Southern Necropolis : Glasgow, Lanarkshire, Scotland. Burial Registers 1914–1954, image 117, FamilySearch.
• Jemima Athya, Statutory Registers Deaths 644/4 1426, National Records of Scotland, 1925.
• John Durie, Census 644/69/19, National Records of Scotland, 1871.
• John Durie, Eastern Necropolis Cemetery, Glasgow, Scotland, daily interment books, August 1912–February 1944.
• John Durie, Statutory Registers Deaths 644/12 1137, National Records of Scotland, 1928.
• Maria Durie, Statutory Registers Births 644/10 401, National Records of Scotland, 1890.
• Maria Durie, Statutory Registers Deaths 644/10 236, National Records of Scotland, 1890.
• Mary Durie, Census 644/10 26/4, National Records of Scotland, 1891.
• Mary Durie, Census 644/10 48/28, National Records of Scotland, 1901.
• Mary Durie, Census 644/21 75/6, National Records of Scotland, 1921.
• Mary Durie, Census 646/2 80/5, National Records of Scotland, 1911.
• Mary Durie, Glasgow, Lanarkshire, Scotland, Electoral Registers, 1857–1962.
• Mary Durie, Statutory Registers Deaths 644/21 335, National Records of Scotland, 1926.
• Mary L. Durie, Craigton Cemetery: Glasgow, Burial Records 1920–1924, pages 166–167, FamilySearch.
• Mary Lochhead Durie, Statutory Registers Births 644/10 303, National Records of Scotland, 1897.
• Mary Lochhead, Statutory Registers Births 468/160, National Records of Scotland, 1860.
• Mary Wark, Statutory Registers Deaths 644/11 917, National Records of Scotland, 1922.
• Robert Durie, Craigton Cemetery: Glasgow. Burial Records 1929–1935, images 144–145, FamilySearch.
• Robert Durie, FHL Film 0203666 GRO Ref Volume 644-10, Enumeration District 30, p. 20, ref. no. 506088, Barony, Lanark, Scotland census, 1881.
• Robert Durie, Glasgow Cemetery Records, Craigton Cemetery, Register of Certificates, item 24196–27274, image 342, FamilySearch.
• Robert Durie, Statutory Registers Births 644/6 125, National Records of Scotland, 1863.
• Robert Durie, Statutory Registers Deaths 644/21 349, National Records of Scotland, 1931.
• Robert Durie, Statutory Registers Marriages 644/13 17, National Records of Scotland, 1889.
• Robert Lochhead Durie, Statutory Registers Births 644/10 281, National Records of Scotland, 1893.
• Robert Lochhead Durie, Statutory Registers Marriages 644/20 12, National Records of Scotland, 1921.
• Thomas Alexander, Statutory Registers Births 644/6 201, National Records of Scotland, 1873. 

Samuel Alexander Wright

At first glance, the title may seem misleading—this sketch is not about one individual named Samuel Alexander Wright, but two. In fact, a third person of that name exists in the family’s history, though his story is not told here.

The lives of these two infants begin with their parents, Samuel Wright and Christina Braidwood, who together welcomed eight children: Christina Martin Wright (1891), the two Samuels (1893 and 1894), James Braidwood Wright (1896), Hugh McDougall Wright (1897), Alexander Braidwood Wright (1900), Thomas Wright (1902), and Joseph Wright (1904).

These children are 2nd cousins 2x removed from my husband. Their closest shared ancestors are Andrew Braidwood and Mary Liddell—great-grandparents to the children and third great-grandparents to my husband.

On May 8, 1893, the couple welcomed their second child and first son, Samuel Alexander Wright, born at home at 249 Main Street in the Bridgeton district of Glasgow. In keeping with Scottish naming conventions, they named him after his paternal grandfather, Samuel Alexander Wright, born in 1823 in the Gorbals district of Glasgow.

Birth register for Samuel Alexander Wright (infant number 1)

At the time, Samuel and Christina had been married for two and a half years, with a young daughter already in their home. Father Samuel worked as a coachman, a respected domestic servant who drove horse-drawn carriages for a private employer. 

Tragically, the child’s life was brief. Twelve days after his birth, little Samuel died at home on May 20, the recorded cause being debility—a term often used for failure to thrive.

Death register for Samuel Alexander Wright (infant number 1)

He was laid to rest on May 22 in Lair 4964 at Eastern Necropolis Cemetery. 

Eastern Necropolis Cemetery burial register for infant number 1

Just under 11 months later, on April 8, 1894, Christina gave birth to another son at their new residence: 3 Polmadie Road in Hutchesontown, a densely populated working-class district south of the River Clyde.

To honor their first son and continue traditional naming patterns, they named this child Samuel Alexander Wright—a practice not uncommon in 19th-century Scotland.

Father Samuel had now transitioned to work as a carter, transporting goods by horse-drawn cart. While less prestigious than his earlier coachman role, carters were vital to Glasgow’s industrial economy. Records show that his own father was listed as a master carter in 1881, suggesting this path was a generational trade, likely taught through family instruction.

Birth register for Samuel Alexander Wright (infant number 2)

By 1895, Samuel Wright had advanced again—employed as a bailie’s vanman, likely responsible for moving goods, supplies, or official documents under the direction of a municipal officer or magistrate, known in Scotland as a bailie. This role hints at growing trust and standing within civic circles.

But tragedy returned. The second Samuel died at just 10 months old on February 17, 1895, after a 21-day battle with pneumonia. The death was recorded at 11 Polmadie Road, suggesting the family had moved to a new flat within the same tenement building.

Death register for Samuel Alexander Wright (infant number 2)

He was buried two days later, on February 19, in the same lair as his older brother.

Eastern Necropolis Cemetery burial register for infant number 2

Lair 4964, held by Andrew Braidwood, the infants’ maternal great-grandfather, became a resting place filled with generational connection. Though neither infant appeared in census records—taken in 1891 and 1901, they are preserved in birth, death, and burial registers, so are not forgotten.

Lairs 4963 and 4964, held by Andrew Braidwood,
Eastern Necropolis Cemetery

The Wrights endured further loss when their infant son James died of pneumonia in Bridgeton on September 14, 1896, at just three months old. He was buried the next day in Lair 5045 at Eastern Necropolis Cemetery.

Interestingly, no record so far shows a middle name or initial for the infants’ father, Samuel Wright. One wonders if he, too, bore the full name Samuel Alexander Wright—perhaps tying all four Samuels together in a meaningful tradition.

References

• Alexander Braidwood Wright, Statutory Registers Births 644/2 7, National Records of Scotland, 1901.
• Christina Martin Wright, Statutory Registers Births 644/11 1890, National Records of Scotland, 1891.
• Eastern Necropolis Cemetery Records, Daily Interment Book, Glasgow, Scotland, film no. 008685205, images 499, 625, and 724, FamilySearch.
• Eastern Necropolis Cemetery, Glasgow, Scotland, Burial Records 1893–1897, image 79, FamilySearch. 
• Hugh McDougall Wright, Statutory Registers Births 644/1 961, National Records of Scotland, 1897.
• James Braidwood Wright, Statutory Registers Births 644/11 1123, National Records of Scotland, 1896.
• James Braidwood Wright, Statutory Registers Deaths 644/1 964, National Records of Scotland, 1896.
• Joseph Wright, Statutory Registers Births 644/2 1687, National Records of Scotland, 1904.
• Kreft, Karen, The Coachman, Ticknall Life Community Magazine, February 10, 2021; https://www.ticknalllife.co.uk/the-coachman/. 
• Lair 4964, Glasgow, Burial Records 1800–1970, Eastern Necropolis Cemetery, image 40, FamilySearch.
• Lair 5045, Eastern Necropolis Cemetery, Glasgow, Cemetery Records 1861–1995, image 93, FamilySearch.
• Samuel Alexander Wright, Old Parish Registers Births 644/2 Gorbals, National Records of Scotland, 1823.
• Samuel Alexander Wright, Statutory Registers Births 644/1 658, National Records of Scotland, 1893.
• Samuel Alexander Wright, Statutory Registers Births 644/11 822, National Records of Scotland, 1894.
• Samuel Alexander Wright, Statutory Registers Deaths 644/1 570, National Records of Scotland, 1893.
• Samuel Wright, Govan, Lanark, Scotland census, 1881.
• Samuel Wright, Statutory Registers Deaths 644/11 259, National Records of Scotland, 1895.
• Smith, Sarah, What Is a Carter?, Genealogy, Old Occupations, Scotland, Unlock Your Past, June 21, 2024; https://www.unlockyourpast.co.uk/old-occupation-carter/. 
• Thomas Wright, Statutory Registers Births 644/2 1306, National Records of Scotland, 1902. 

Thomas Bowman

Thomas Bowman was born January 23, 1877, at 102 Foundry Lane in St. Rollox, Glasgow, Lanarkshire, Scotland, to Joseph Bowman and Mary Braidwood. His parents had married on September 1, 1876, and had been together for just under five months at the time of his birth. His father, a journeyman glassblower, was originally from England. Thomas was the oldest of three, with Joseph Bowman and Alexander Bowman as his younger siblings. 

Thomas in Scotland birth register

Thomas is my husband’s 2nd cousin 2x removed. Their closest shared ancestors are Andrew Braidwood and Mary Liddell—Thomas’ great-grandparents and my husband’s 3rd great-grandparents.

By the time Joseph was born, the family had relocated to 77 East-John Street in Camlachie, Glasgow. By 1881, they were living in Dennistoun, Glasgow, where Alexander was born. That same year, the Bowman family resided at 5 County Park Terrace in Saint John Parish, Glasgow. Their home had only one windowed room, indicating modest living conditions. At age 26, Thomas’ father continued working as a glassblower.

1881 Scotland census

By 1891, Thomas (14) was living at 33 Mill Street in Bridgeton with his widowed grandmother, Christina (Martin) Braidwood (58), his widowed mother (30), aunt Martha Braidwood (26), and brothers Joseph (11) and Alexander (9). His father had evidently passed away between 1881 and 1891. His mother and aunt worked as paint workers, while his brothers were noted as scholars—though Thomas was not. Compared to their earlier home, this one had three rooms with windows, suggesting improved circumstances.

1891 Scotland census

Thomas married Sophia Johnston on February 7, 1899, at Fairbairn Free Church in Bridgeton, according to the Forms of the Free Church of Scotland. At 22, he worked as a furniture warehouseman, and his 20-year-old bride, Sophia, was a spinster. Thomas resided at 56 Albany Street, while Sophia, daughter of William Johnston and Mary Lowrie, lived at 5 Harvie Street.

Thomas in Scotland marriage register

The couple had five children—Mary Bowman, Sophia Bowman, William James Bowman, Violet Bowman, and Thomas Bowman. Their first child, Mary, was born five months after their wedding at the Johnston family home on June 10, 1899. At the time, Thomas continued as a furniture warehouseman.

Mary Bowman in Scotland birth register

Mary passed away on April 8, 1900, at 219 London Road in Camlachie, Glasgow, at just nine months old. She succumbed to acute bronchial pneumonia, which she battled for seven days. Sadly, her great-grandmother and Thomas’ grandmother, Christina (Martin) Braidwood, had died just one day prior. Mary was buried in Lair 3224 at Sandymount Cemetery, in a plot owned by her grandfather, William Johnston.

Mary Bowman in Scotland death register

Their second daughter, Sophia, was born on January 21, 1901, at the Johnston home. Thomas remained in furniture warehousing. However, in the 1901 census, Thomas and Sophia lived separately—Thomas with his widowed mother and brothers in Dalmarnock, and Sophia with her widowed father and brother in Calton. Both were recorded as married, yet their separation raises speculation—perhaps for work, family care, or other reasons.

Sophia Bowman in Scotland birth register

Thomas later worked as a paint maker, responsible for mixing pigments, oils, and resins for buildings, ships, and machinery. His brothers, Joseph and Alexander, worked as machinemen, operating and maintaining industrial machinery.

In 1901, the census captured two households connected by marriage. Thomas, a paint maker by trade, shared a modest two-windowed home at 29 Ardenlea Street with his mother Mary and brothers Joseph and Alexander. Both brothers worked as machinemen, likely in one of the area’s industrial facilities.

Meanwhile, Thomas’ wife Sophia was living separately with her family in their two-windowed home on Harvie Street. She stayed there with her widowed father William, her nine-year-old brother (also named William), and her infant daughter Sophia, just two months old at the time. Her father worked as a bleachfield worker in the textile industry—a job that involved spreading cloth across open fields and using both chemicals and natural sunlight to achieve the desired white color. Young William, like many children his age, was listed as a scholar, attending local schooling.

Thomas in the 1901 Scotland census

Thomas' wife and daughter in the 1901 Scotland census

By May 25, 1904, Thomas and Sophia seemingly reunited, as their son, William James Bowman, was born at 125 Summerfield Street in Bridgeton. Their third child, Violet Bowman, arrived on June 11, 1906, at 12 Davidson Street. Thomas continued to be employed as a paint worker.

William James Bowman in the Scotland birth register

Violet Bowman in the Scotland birth register

Thomas passed away on June 7, 1908, at age 28, at the Royal Infirmary in Glasgow. His death resulted from lockjaw (tetanus), caused by a puncture wound in his left foot sustained weeks prior. He endured 12 days of suffering before succumbing. At the time, he lived at 44 East Hope Street in Dennistoun and worked as a bone work laborer, a role involving processing animal bones for industrial goods like buttons, combs, and fertilizer.

Thomas in the Scotland death register

Correction sheet to Thomas’ death register

Thomas was laid to rest in Lair 4963 at Eastern Necropolis Cemetery on June 10, 1908, alongside his grandmother, parents, and other relatives. His great-grandfather, Andrew Braidwood, was the lair’s proprietor.

Thomas in Eastern Necropolis Cemetery's burial records

Eastern Necropolis Cemetery, Lairholder Registry

Sophia was left to care for their three young children—but it turns out she was already pregnant. On November 7, 1908—five months after Thomas’ death—she gave birth to a son, Thomas Bowman, at 39 Springfield Road in Bridgeton.

Thomas’ son Thomas Bowman in Scotland birth register

Sophia passed away in 1920 from smallpox. She was buried in Lair 3224 at Sandymount Cemetery, alongside her father and daughter, Mary.

Sophia in Scotland death register

William Johnston Lair, Register of Lair Owners and Burials,
Sandymount Cemetery, Glasgow

References

• Alexander Bowman, Statutory Registers Births 644/3 670, National Records of Scotland, 1881.
• Andrew Braidwood, Glasgow, Scotland, Burial Records 1800–1970, images 1 and 40, FamilySearch.
• Bridgeton, Glasgow, Lanarkshire, Scotland Census, 1891. DOWNLOAD
• Eastern Necropolis Cemetery: Glasgow, Scotland Burial Records 1906–1912, image 86, FamilySearch.
• Joseph Bowman, Statutory Registers Births 644/2 940, National Records of Scotland, 1879.
• Mary Bowman, Statutory Registers Births 644/1 1741, National Records of Scotland, 1908.
• Mary Bowman, Statutory Registers Deaths 644/2 320, National Records of Scotland, 1900.
• Sandymount Cemetery: Glasgow, Scotland, Burial Records 1880–1989, images 4 and 425, FamilySearch.
• Sophia Bowman, Census 644/116/2, National Records of Scotland, 1901.
• Sophia Bowman, Statutory Registers Deaths 644/1 625, National Records of Scotland, 1920.
• Thomas Bowman, Census 644/130/3, National Records of Scotland, 1891.
• Thomas Bowman, Census 644/175/14, National Records of Scotland, 1901.
• Thomas Bowman, Census 644/321/13, National Records of Scotland, 1881.
• Thomas Bowman, Statutory Registers Births 644/1 1741, National Records of Scotland, 1908.
• Thomas Bowman, Statutory Registers Births 644/6 239, National Records of Scotland, 1877.
• Thomas Bowman, Statutory Registers Deaths 644/4 761, National Records of Scotland, 1908.
• Thomas Bowman, Statutory Registers Marriages 644/1 76, National Records of Scotland, 1899.
• Violet Bowman, Statutory Registers Births 644/1 1036, National Records of Scotland, 1899.
• William James Bowman, Statutory Registers Births 644/1 1033, National Records of Scotland, 1904.