Archibald Campbell (Glasgow MP) facts for kids
Archibald Campbell of Blythswood (born 1763 – died 13 June 1838) was an important Scottish landowner and politician. He inherited a large estate near Glasgow and played a big role in developing the city. He also served in the army and was a Member of Parliament for several areas in Scotland.
Archibald Campbell's Life
Archibald Campbell was born in 1763 with the name Archibald Douglas. His father, Colonel James Douglas, inherited a huge estate called Blythswood in Glasgow in 1767. After that, his father became known as Campbell of Blythswood. Archibald's mother was Henrietta Dunlop.
When his father passed away, the Blythswood estate first went to Archibald's older brother, Lieutenant Colonel John Campbell. Sadly, John was killed in Martinique in 1794. This meant the estate then passed to Archibald. Parts of the estate closest to Glasgow were sold to people who wanted to build new areas. One of the main buyers was William Harley. This led to the creation of the "New Town of Blythswood." John Campbell had already made this possible with a special law in 1792.
Archibald joined the British Army. By 1790, he was a captain in the 1st Foot regiment. He was promoted to major in 1794. He left the army when he inherited the family estate at Blythswood, which is in Renfrewshire.
He became a Senior Bailie for the City of Glasgow starting in 1802. A Bailie is like a local official or magistrate.
Political Career and Public Service
Archibald Campbell was elected as a Member of Parliament (M.P.) for several Scottish areas. He represented Glasgow Burghs from 1806 to 1809. Later, he was M.P. for Elgin Burghs in 1812. He then represented Perth Burghs from 1818 to 1820. Finally, he was M.P. for Glasgow Burghs again from 1820 to 1831.
Besides being an M.P., he also served as the Lord-lieutenant of Renfrewshire. This is a representative of the monarch in a county. He held this important role from 1826 until his death. He was also the Rector of Glasgow University from 1809 to 1811. The Rector is a senior official in a university.
Archibald Campbell never married. When he died, the Blythswood lands went to his second cousin, Archibald Douglas of Mains. This cousin also took on the surname Campbell to continue the family name associated with the estate.
Artistic Depictions
Archibald Campbell was important enough that artists created his likeness. A full-length painting of him was made by Colvin Smith. There is also a marble bust of Campbell created by James Fillans. One copy of this bust is in a private collection in the United States. Another copy is on display at the Paisley Sheriff Court in Scotland.
