George Ross, 13th Lord Ross facts for kids
George Ross, 13th Lord Ross of Halkhead (born 1681 – died 1754), was an important Scottish nobleman. He held several key positions during his life.
Who Was George Ross?
George Ross was the oldest son of William Ross, 12th Lord Ross. His mother was Agnes Wilkie. The Ross family of Halkhead lived in Renfrewshire, Scotland. They were a Lowland family, which means they lived in the flatter, southern parts of Scotland. They were not related to the famous Clan Ross from the Scottish Highlands.
His Important Jobs
George Ross had many important jobs throughout his career:
- In 1702, he became a Commissioner of Supply for Renfrewshire. This meant he helped manage taxes and resources for the government in that area. He also held this role for Edinburgh in 1704.
- He was chosen as the Lord Rector of Glasgow University in both 1727 and 1728. This is a high-ranking official position at a university.
- In 1739, he was made Governor of Edinburgh Castle. This meant he was in charge of one of Scotland's most famous castles.
- He also worked as a Commissioner of Customs and Salt in 1744, 1746, and 1751. In this role, he helped collect taxes on goods and salt.
When his son Charles passed away in 1745, George Ross inherited the Balnagown estate. George Ross himself died in Edinburgh in 1754.
His Family Life
Around 1711, George Ross married Elizabeth Kerr, who was the daughter of William Kerr, 2nd Marquess of Lothian. She passed away in 1758. They had several children, including:
- William Ross, 14th Lord Ross (born around 1720 – died 1754)
- Charles Ross (born 1721 – died 1745). He inherited the Balnagown estate from his uncle in 1732. Charles was killed during the Battle of Fontenoy.
- George Ross (born 1722), who passed away before his father.
- Jane Ross (born 1719 – died 1777). She married John Mackye in 1755 and inherited the Halkhead estates after her older brother William died.
- Elizabeth Ross (born 1725 – died 1791). She married John Boyle, 3rd Earl of Glasgow in 1755 and inherited the Halkhead estates after her older sister Jane died.
- Mary Ross (born 1730 – died 1762). She was believed to have been affected by an illness that people at the time didn't understand. She never married.
- Margaret Ross (born 1731), who also never married.
