Duke Gordon facts for kids

Duke Gordon (1739–1800) was a Scottish librarian who loved books and learning. He spent most of his life working at the University of Edinburgh library. Even though his first name was "Duke," he wasn't actually a duke! His father simply admired the Duke of Gordon and gave his son that name.

Early Life and Education

Duke Gordon was born on May 20, 1739, in Potterrow, Edinburgh. His father, William Gordon, was a weaver.

Young Duke went to school in an area of Edinburgh called the Cowgate. His teacher was Andrew Waddel. Later, in 1753, Duke Gordon started studying Greek at the University of Edinburgh. He was a very good student and became a skilled scholar, meaning he was excellent at academic studies.

Working at the University

After finishing his studies, Duke Gordon worked as a private tutor for families. He helped teach their children.

In 1763, he got a job at the University of Edinburgh library. The head librarian, James Robertson, hired him as his assistant. Duke Gordon continued in this role even when Andrew Dalzel took over as the new librarian.

He worked at the library for many years. His salary was quite small, so he often continued to give private lessons to earn more money.

A Dedicated Scholar

Duke Gordon was known as a very patient and smart person. He had a good sense of humor too. He was so good at finding mistakes in books that he even found errors in a famous Latin book by the poet Horace, which was thought to be perfect!

When he retired from his job in 1800, the university gave him a special degree called an MA (Master of Arts). This was a way to honor his hard work and dedication.

Duke Gordon passed away on December 30, 1800. He was buried in St Cuthbert's churchyard in Edinburgh. He left £500 to the Edinburgh Infirmary, which was a hospital, and also left some property to help the poor people in his local area.