Richard Baty facts for kids

Richard Baty (died 1758) was a Scottish religious leader in the Anglican Church. He was known for helping his community in many ways.

Richard Baty's Life Story

Richard Baty was born in a place called Arthuret in Cumberland, Scotland. He went to Glasgow University and finished his studies there in 1725. After university, he worked for seven years as a church leader in Kirkandrew-upon-Esk, which was near his hometown.

In 1732, a local leader named Viscount Preston gave him the important job of leading the main church in the parish.

Helping His Community

Richard Baty cared a lot about the people in his parish. He built a house for himself, called a parsonage, using his own money.

He also helped everyone in the town by creating a ferry service across the River Esk. This river ran through the town, and there was no bridge to cross it before Baty made the ferry. This made it much easier for people to travel.

Baty also believed that education was very important. He worked to build a schoolhouse in the area so children could learn.

A Friendly Leader

People liked Richard Baty because he was kind and friendly. He got along well with everyone, including important people from both sides of the border. Some people thought he was too generous with his hospitality, meaning he hosted many guests and spent a lot on them.

An Eye Doctor

Interestingly, Richard Baty also studied the human eye and its diseases. He became known in his local area as a skilled eye doctor, or oculist. He helped many people with their vision problems.

Richard Baty passed away in 1758.