kids encyclopedia robot

Robert Cullen, Lord Cullen facts for kids

Kids Encyclopedia Facts
Robert Cullen, Lord Cullen as caricatured by John Kay, 1799
Robert Cullen, Lord Cullen was a Scottish judge.

Robert Cullen, Lord Cullen (born September 22, 1742 – died November 28, 1810) was an important Scottish judge. His friends often called him Bob Cullen. He worked closely with his father, William Cullen, to help create the Royal Society of Edinburgh in 1783. This society became a very important group for science and learning in Scotland.

Early Life and Education

Robert Cullen was born in Hamilton, Scotland, on September 22, 1742. His mother was Anne Johnstone, and his father was William Cullen. William Cullen was a famous doctor and scientist. When Robert was young, his family moved to Edinburgh, Scotland. They lived in an old building that used to be a mint, where coins were made. Robert also had a brother named Henry Cullen, who became a doctor too.

Robert went to school at the High School in Edinburgh. After that, he studied at the University of Edinburgh. He became a lawyer in December 1764.

A Career in Law

Robert Cullen became a very important person in Scottish law. He served as a judge in different roles. From 1796 to 1799, he was a Senator of the College of Justice. This meant he was one of the main judges in Scotland's highest court. Later, from 1799 until he died in 1810, he was a Lord of Justiciary. This was another very high position, dealing with criminal cases.

In 1783, Robert Cullen helped start the Royal Society of Edinburgh. This society brought together many smart people to share ideas in science, history, and literature.

Later Life and Family

Robert Cullen lived in Argyll Square in Edinburgh during his final years. He passed away on November 28, 1810. He was buried next to his father in the churchyard at Kirknewton, which is southwest of Edinburgh.

Burial enclosure of William and Robert Cullen - geograph.org.uk - 1050342
The burial place of William and Robert Cullen in Kirknewton.

Later in his life, Robert Cullen married Mary Russell. She had worked for his family. They did not have any children together. After Robert died, Mary married again. She passed away in the West Indies in 1818.

Writings

Robert Cullen also enjoyed writing. He wrote articles for two magazines called "Mirror" and "Lounger."

kids search engine
Robert Cullen, Lord Cullen Facts for Kids. Kiddle Encyclopedia.