William Durie

William Durie, son of George Durie and Mary Elisabeth Taylor, was born on November 20, 1820, in Inveresk and Musselburgh, Scotland. He was the oldest of six children: William Durie, James Durie, Agnes Durie, Elizabeth Durie, John Durie, and Robert Durie. William is my husband’s 3rd great uncle, with their nearest common relatives being his parents—my husband’s 3rd great grandparents.

William was baptized on Christmas Eve 1820, at Inveresk and Musselburgh. At the time, his father was employed as a weaver.

1821 Scotland birth register

On February 13, 1837, William was registered as a private by Sergeant David Henderson with the 72nd Regiment of Foot (The Duke of Albany’s Own Highlanders) in Edinburgh, Scotland, under age as a boy. He was just 14 years and 9 months old and living in Inveresk. Because he was below the standard age for enlistment, his case was forwarded to the Horse Guards for review. An extract from a letter dated February 20, 1837, shows that Lord Hill, Commander‑in‑Chief of the British Army, approved his enlistment, noting that William was “of a very promising description.” His age meant he entered in a non‑combat role, with the expectation of becoming a full soldier at 18.

Extract of a letter from the Horse Guards, February 20, 1837

William had a fair complexion and grey eyes. His hair was described as flaxen—a pale blond shade often seen among Highland recruits. At nearly 15, he stood 5 feet 5¼ inches tall, noticeably above average for boys his age in 1830s Scotland. Before enlistment, William’s trade was recorded as grocer.

William (bottom line) in the Edinburgh, Scotland Army Attestation Register

Although vaccinated as an infant in 1823, William contracted a mild form of smallpox in April 1837, shortly after his enlistment. The illness left no lasting effects, though the small vaccination mark on his arm remained.

During his time in the military, William served eight years and five months abroad, including one year and two months at the Cape of Good Hope, three years and two months at Gibraltar, three years and four months in the West Indies, and nine months in North America (Canada). William received Good Conduct Pay beginning in April 1847, but it was withdrawn in January 1849, likely due to a disciplinary infraction.

William would have worn an interesting uniform during his military career. Between 1837 and 1853, the 72nd Regiment wore a red jacket, trews (tight‑fitting tartan trousers), a Highland bonnet, and the usual soldier’s gear. The tartan used for their trews during this period was the Prince Charles Edward Stuart pattern—a bright, distinctive sett of reds and blues that the regiment adopted when it regained its Highland status in the early 19th century. It gave the unit a recognizable Highland appearance and remained the standard trews tartan throughout William’s years of service. You can see an example of the uniform here. 

Although the 72nd Regiment was stationed across the British Empire during William’s years of service, these were peacetime postings rather than wartime campaigns.

I have not located William in any of Scotland’s census records, likely due to his early entry into the military and long periods stationed abroad.

In the spring of 1852, William fractured his left ankle when his foot was accidentally stuck between the bars of his bedstead in Barbados. He was not on duty when the fracture occurred. A doctor examined him in early September and determined that he was unable to march any considerable distance and that his left ankle would not be able to bear fatigue. His discharge was approved on September 28, and he completed the formal process at the military depot in Chatham, the usual point where unfit soldiers were examined and released from service. At the time of his discharge, William was 31 years old and had served 12 years and 131 days.

 

UK, Royal Hospital Chelsea Pensioner Admission and Discharge Records

In September 1852, William was admitted to the Royal Hospital Chelsea pension rolls as a former soldier of the 72nd Regiment of Foot. At the time, he was living in the 2nd Glasgow District, likely having settled there after discharge. His pension was temporary—scheduled to last 29 weeks into 1853—and payments began on October 20. The limited term was tied to the ankle injury that led to his discharge. He remained on the rolls until his death the following spring.

UK, Royal Hospital Chelsea Returns of Payment of Army and Other Pensions

UK, Royal Hospital Chelsea Register

William died on April 8, 1853, at the age of 32, and was buried at Sandymount Cemetery in Glasgow. The cemetery burial register identified him as a pensioner of the 72nd Regiment. The entry lists his father, George Durie of 230 Holm Street, as the individual responsible for arranging the interment, and the burial order was placed the same day William died. His cause of death was recorded simply as “lungs,” a common shorthand for pulmonary disease such as tuberculosis or chronic respiratory illness. William’s funeral took place on April 12 at 3 p.m., and he was buried in Lair No. 56, a plot owned not by the Durie family but by N. W. Bell. The nature of the relationship between the Durie and Bell families is unknown. The burial was classified as Class No. 20, a modest category within the cemetery’s fee structure, with interment costs recorded as 7 shillings and 6 pence.

Sandymount Cemetery Burial Register

 When I started my research to write a sketch for James Durie, William’s brother, I knew almost nothing about William. I discovered his burial entry during that work. The register contained the names George and William Durie, both of which I was already researching for James’s sketch. The deceased man was listed as William Durie, son of George Durie of 230 Holm Street—a familiar address from past research. Although I have not yet located William in any Scottish census, the 1851 census shows his parents and several siblings living at that same address. This confirmed that the William in the burial register was indeed the son of George Durie and the brother of James. The notation that William was a pensioner of the 72nd Regiment also provided a valuable clue, allowing me to locate his military records and further document his life. William never married and had no children.

William’s signature

References

• 72nd Regiment of Foot (The Duke of Albany’s Own Highlanders), National Army Museum; https://www.nam.ac.uk/explore/72nd-regiment-foot-duke-albanys-own-highlanders. 
• Agnes Durie, Census 622/87/2, National Records of Scotland, 1851.
• Glasgow, Scotland, Burial Records 1850–1854, images 207–208, FamilySearch.
• William Durie, Edinburgh, Scotland, Army Attestation Registers, 1796–1857.
• 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.
• William Durie, UK, Royal Hospital Chelsea Returns of Payment of Army and Other Pensions, 1842-1883
• William Durrie, UK, Royal Hospital Chelsea Pensioner Service Records, 1760–1925.
• Wm. Durie, UK, Royal Hospital Chelsea Admission Books, Registers and Papers, 1702–1980. 

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. 

Mary Durie Athya

Mary Durie Athya was born on August 26, 1897, to James Wylie Athya and Jemima Durie in Mossend, Bellshill, Lanarkshire, Scotland. Mary was one of 11 children, including siblings James Athya, Jane “Jeanie” Durie Athya, Margaret Wylie Athya, Elizabeth Durie Athya, James Athya, Isabella Gilchrist Athya, Robert Durie Athya, John Durie Athya, George Durie Athya, and David Durie Athya. Like six of her siblings, Mary was given her mother’s maiden name as her middle name, a common Scottish practice. Two other siblings were given the middle names Wylie and Gilchrist, also family names. Mary’s paternal grandmother was Jane Wylie, and her paternal great-grandmother was Margaret Gilchrist. This naming tradition honors ancestors and keeps these family names alive for future generations. Mary is my husband’s great-aunt, with their nearest common relatives being her parents and my husband’s great grandparents.

Mary’s parents, who married in the Gorbals District of Glasgow, Scotland in 1877, had been married for 20 years when she was born. Tragically, they lost four children before her birth: James, born in 1876, lived less than one month; Jane, born in 1878, died at age 10 in 1888; a second son named James, born in 1883, was three and a half months old when he died in 1884; and John, born in 1890, was just over one year of age when he died in 1891. Mary’s father worked as a journeyman joiner, a skilled craftsman who worked with wood.

Birth register

In 1901, the Athya family resided on Hope Street in the civil parish of Dalziel in Motherwell, Lanarkshire, Scotland. John and Rosina Beck lived in the home as boarders. Mary’s father, James, worked as a joiner. Her brothers, Robert, George, and David, attended school, while Mary, aged 3, stayed at home with her mother, Jemima. The home consisted of two rooms with one or more windows.

1901 Scotland census

On June 6, 1902, the Athya family gathered for the marriage of Mary’s sister, Margaret, to John Close in Springburn, Glasgow. Their sister, Elizabeth, was one of two witnesses for the nuptials. At the time, Margaret, a 22-year-old spinster, lived at 111 Campsie Street in Glasgow. Their father, James, was employed as a railway wagon builder journeyman.

This joyous time was followed by two tragic events in the Athya family. The first was the death of Mary’s sister, Isabella, on June 21, just 15 days after Margaret’s wedding. Isabella likely died suddenly from cardiac disease syncope, a condition where a person faints because their heart is not able to pump enough blood to their brain. This can happen due to heart problems like irregular heartbeats or blockages in the heart valves. Isabella’s death occurred at 135 Campsie Street.

The second tragic event took place just over two months later. Two days after her fifth birthday, Mary died on August 28, 1902, after suffering from tuberculosis meningitis for 10 days. Both Isabella and Mary’s deaths took place at 135 Campsie Street in Springburn, Lanarkshire, Glasgow, so it was likely their home. Given that Margaret lived at 111 Campsie Street when she married in June, it is unclear if she lived separately from the rest of the Athya family or if a move took place during the summer months. 

Death register

Mary was buried in Lair 859, owned by her great grandfather, Isaac Athya, at Southern Necropolis Cemetery in Glasgow, Scotland.

Register of interments, Southern Necropolis Cemetery

 References

• David Athya, Statutory Registers Births 625/3 157, National Records of Scotland, 1894.
• Elizabeth Athya, Statutory Registers Deaths 644/6 1019, National Records of Scotland, 1942.
• George Durie Athya, Statutory Registers Births 625/1 452, National Records of Scotland, 1892.
• Isabella Gilchrist Athya, Register of Interments, Southern Necropolis Cemetery, Glasgow, Scotland, 1902.
• Isabella Gilchrist Athya, Statutory Registers Births 628/302, National Records of Scotland, 1885.
• Isabella Gilchrist Athya, Statutory Registers Deaths 644/3 1402, National Records of Scotland, 1902.
• James Athya, Statutory Registers Births 644/10 75, National Records of Scotland, 1884.
• James Athya, Statutory Registers Deaths 644/10 246, National Records of Scotland, 1884.
• James Athya, Statutory Registers Deaths 644/5 418, National Records of Scotland, 1913.
• James Athya, Statutory Registers Deaths 644/7 538, National Records of Scotland, 1876.
• James Athya, Statutory Registers Marriages 644/12 176, National Records of Scotland, 1877.
• Jane Durie Athya, Statutory Registers Births 644/12 604, National Records of Scotland, 1878.
• Jeanie Athya, Statutory Registers Deaths 628/294, National Records of Scotland, 1888.
• Jemima Athya, Census 639/9/11, National Records of Scotland, 1901.
• John Durie Athya, Statutory Registers Births 625/1 530, National Records of Scotland, 1890.
• John Durie Athya, Statutory Registers Deaths 625/1 309, National Records of Scotland, 1891.
• Margaret Wylie Athya, Statutory Registers Marriages 644/6 150, National Records of Scotland, 1902.
• Mary D. Athya, Register of Interments, Southern Necropolis Cemetery, Glasgow, Scotland, 1902.
• Mary Durie Athya, Statutory Registers Births 625/3 376, National Records of Scotland, 1897.
• Mary Durie Athya, Statutory Registers Deaths 644/3 1769, National Records of Scotland, 1902.
• Robert Durie Athya, Statutory Registers Births 628/557, National Records of Scotland, 1888.
• Syncope (Fainting), American Heart Association; https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/arrhythmia/symptoms-diagnosis--monitoring-of-arrhythmia/syncope-fainting. 
• Syncope (Fainting), Brigham and Women's Hospital; https://www.brighamandwomens.org/heart-and-vascular-center/diseases-and-conditions/syncope-fainting.