James Macphail facts for kids
James Calder Macphail (born 1821, died 1908) was a Scottish minister and teacher. He is most famous for being one of the very first photographers to take pictures in the Holy Land. He was also a pioneer in photography in general.
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Early Life and Photography
James Calder Macphail was born on February 21, 1821. His birthplace was near Loch Broom in northern Scotland.
He became interested in photography at a young age. In 1843, when he was just 22, he joined the Edinburgh Calotype Club. This was a group for people who loved photography. His friend Cosmo Innes encouraged him to explore this new art form.
In 1847 and 1848, James traveled to Italy and Malta. He took some of his earliest photographs during this trip. Four of these old pictures still exist today.
Education and Church Work
James studied to become a minister. He attended the University of Aberdeen and New College, Edinburgh. After finishing his studies, he became an assistant minister.
In 1849, he became a minister in the Free Church of Scotland. His first church was in Aberdeen. Later, in 1868, he moved to Pilrig Church in Edinburgh. This church was newly built and very grand.
Helping Others
James Calder Macphail cared deeply about education. In 1869, he started a special fund. This fund helped boys who spoke Scottish Gaelic go to university. He wanted to make sure they could get a good education.
In the 1870s, James went on an important trip. He traveled to the Holy Land and took many photographs there. This made him one of the first people to capture these historic places on camera.
He continued to serve as a minister at Pilrig Church for many years. The University of Edinburgh even gave him an honorary degree. He retired around 1896 and left Edinburgh.
James Calder Macphail passed away on February 12, 1908. He is buried in Dean Cemetery in Edinburgh.
Family Life
James Calder Macphail was married to Ann Badenach Nicolson. They had two daughters, Annie and Sybella.
They also had two sons. His elder son, James Robert Nicolson Macphail, was interested in old historical items. His younger son, Earle Monteith Macphail, became a missionary in India. He later became the head of Madras University. He also held an important position in the government in India.
Images for kids
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Pilrig manse, Edinburgh
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The grave of Rev Dr James Calder Macphail, Dean Cemetery, Edinburgh
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Pilrig St. Paul's Church
