George Haliburton (bishop of Aberdeen) facts for kids

George Haliburton (born around 1635, died 1715) was an important Scottish church leader. He was also a supporter of the Jacobite cause. He served as the Bishop of Aberdeen and held a top position at King's College, Aberdeen.

George Haliburton's Life and Career

Early Education and Church Roles

George Haliburton studied at St Salvator's College, St Andrews. He earned his first degree, a Master of Arts, in 1652. Later, in 1673, he received an honorary Doctorate in Divinity. This was a high academic honor.

In 1659, he became a minister in Coupar Angus. By 1663, he was the Archdeacon of Dunkeld. After getting his doctorate, he led the local church group, called the Presbytery of Meigle, starting in 1678.

Becoming a Bishop

George Haliburton became the Bishop of Brechin on June 13, 1678. He was officially made a bishop at St Andrews Cathedral. As bishop, he also served as the provost and minister of Brechin. However, he continued to be the minister of Coupar Angus as well.

Moving to Aberdeen

On June 22, 1682, Haliburton was chosen for a bigger role. He moved to the larger diocese of Aberdeen. He officially became the Bishop of Aberdeen on July 5, 1682.

Unlike many in the Church of Scotland, Haliburton believed in episcopacy. This meant he supported having bishops lead the church. He was also active in opposing the Quakers, a different religious group.

Changes After the Glorious Revolution

In 1688, a major event called the Glorious Revolution happened. This brought big changes to Scotland. The system of having bishops in the Church of Scotland was ended. All bishops, including Haliburton, lost their church positions, known as sees. George Haliburton was officially removed from his bishopric on July 22, 1689.

Later Years and Jacobite Support

After losing his position, Haliburton moved to Newtyle parish in Angus. He helped an episcopal minister there until the Church of Scotland took control in 1698. He then retired to his home at Halton, which was nearby. The next year, he started receiving a pension.

Haliburton became a strong supporter of Jacobitism. This was a movement that wanted to bring back the old royal family to the throne. He worked closely with other bishops who also supported this cause. However, these bishops sometimes kept their secret plans for new bishops from him.

In 1710, he moved to Denhead. George Haliburton died at Halton on September 29, 1715. Just twenty days before he died, he attended an important event. He was there when the flag of the Old Pretender was raised at Fetteresso. This act started the First Jacobite rising.

His Family

George Haliburton was married twice. His first wife was Agnes Campbell of Keithock. She was the widow of David Haliburton of Pitcur, who was George's cousin. After she passed away, he married Ms. Rutherford, who died in 1738. They had several children together.