Alexander Dunbar facts for kids

Dunbar Memorial Hall, Auldearn

Alexander Dunbar was a Scottish Presbyterian minister and teacher who lived in the 1600s. He was part of a group called the Covenanters. These were people who believed in following their religious beliefs very strictly, even if it meant disagreeing with the King. Alexander Dunbar was known for preaching outdoors, which was against the law at the time. Because of this, he was held prisoner on a famous island called the Bass Rock for about a year.

Early Life and Education

Auldearn Church

Covenanters Grave, Auldearn

Symbolic Panels in Auldearn Graveyard

Alexander Dunbar was born around 1645. This was the same year as the Battle of Auldearn, a famous battle in Scotland. He was likely the son of John Dunbar, who was a minister in a place called Edinkillie.

Alexander went to King's College, Aberdeen, a university in Scotland. He earned his Master of Arts degree in 1661. After finishing his studies, he worked as a school teacher in Auldearn from 1666 to 1670. Later, he became a chaplain and tutor at a place called Kilravock.

His Work as a Preacher

Alexander Dunbar became a licensed preacher in Edinburgh in 1682. This meant he was allowed to preach, but he chose to preach in ways that were not approved by the government. He started preaching right away and continued until early 1685, when he was arrested.

He was accused of several things. These included holding "conventicles," which were religious meetings held in private homes or outdoors without permission. He was also accused of not attending the official church services and of teaching ideas that the government didn't like.

When he was questioned in 1685, he admitted that he had preached in private homes. He also refused to promise his loyalty to King James. Because of this, he was sentenced to be sent away to work in the West Indies. However, this never happened. Instead, he was sent to the Bass Rock prison in February 1685. He stayed there for a full year. He was finally released because his health was very poor.

Later Life and Freedom

After his release, Alexander Dunbar continued his work. In 1687, he was officially recognized by other Presbyterian ministers. He became the minister at Auldearn in 1689.

Alexander Dunbar was an important figure in the church. He was a member of the General Assembly, which is like a big meeting for Presbyterian ministers, in 1690 and 1692. He passed away on October 29, 1707, after being ill for three years.

People remembered him as a very dedicated and holy person. Sir Hugh Campbell of Cawdor, a well-known writer, even called him "the holy Mr Alexander Dunbar." Alexander Dunbar cared deeply about his church. He left money to buy silver communion cups for the Auldearn parish.

Family Life

Alexander Dunbar was married twice. His first wife was Margaret Meldrum, who passed away in 1689. His second wife was Beatrix Fowler, who outlived him.