George Fergusson, Lord Hermand facts for kids
George Fergusson, Lord Hermand (born August 25, 1743 – died August 9, 1827) was an important Scottish lawyer and judge. He was also a Fellow of the Royal Society of Edinburgh, a group of smart people who study science and other subjects.
Life of a Scottish Judge
George Fergusson was born on August 25, 1743. He was the eighth son of Sir James Fergusson, a respected landowner from Kilkerran in Ayrshire, Scotland. His mother was Jean Maitland. His older brother was Sir Adam Fergusson.
George went to school in Edinburgh, first at James Mundell's School, then at the High School from 1755 to 1756. After school, he studied law at the University of Edinburgh.
He became a member of the Faculty of Advocates on December 17, 1765. This meant he could work as a lawyer, also known as an advocate, in Scotland. He worked as a lawyer for 34 years and was very successful.
In 1783, George Fergusson helped start the Royal Society of Edinburgh. His brother Adam and many other important people from the Scottish Enlightenment also helped. This group brought together many clever thinkers in Scotland.
When a judge named Robert McQueen, Lord Braxfield, passed away, George Fergusson took his place. He became an "ordinary lord of session" on July 11, 1799. This meant he was a judge in the highest civil court in Scotland. He was known by his special title, "Lord Hermand."
Later, on August 4, 1808, he was also made a "lord justiciary." This meant he became a judge in the highest criminal court in Scotland. He stopped working as a judge in both these roles in 1826.
An artist named John Kay made a picture of Lord Hermand. His picture also appeared with other judges in a famous painting.
Lord Hermand passed away at his family home, Hermand House, on August 9, 1827. Hermand House is located near West Calder in Scotland. The house and its land are still there today.
Family Life
George Fergusson married a woman named Graham McDowall. She was the daughter of William McDowall of Garthland. Graham lived for several years after George passed away. They did not have any children.
