Robert Ferguson of Raith facts for kids
Robert Ferguson (born September 8, 1769 – died December 3, 1840) was an important figure from Raith, Scotland. He served as a Member of Parliament (MP) for different areas in Scotland. At the time of his death, he was the Lord Lieutenant of Fife, a special representative of the King or Queen.
Robert Ferguson was also very interested in geology and minerals. A mineral called Fergusonite was even named after him!
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About Robert Ferguson
Robert Ferguson was the oldest son of William Ferguson of Raith and Jane Crauford. His brother was General Sir Ronald Craufurd Ferguson. Robert went to the High School in Edinburgh from 1777 to 1780. He also had a private tutor named John Playfair.
Later, he studied law at the University of Edinburgh. He became a qualified lawyer in 1791. He lived at Raith House, which is close to Kirkcaldy.
His Political Career
Robert Ferguson was part of the Whig political party. He was first elected as a Member of Parliament (MP) in 1806 for Fifeshire. After some time, he was elected again following the Reform Bill.
From 1831 to 1835, he represented the Kirkcaldy area. In 1835, he won an election for Haddingtonshire. He supported the Whig government's plans.
He was defeated in the 1837 election. However, he soon returned to represent the Kirkcaldy area again.
His Scientific Interests
Robert Ferguson had a strong interest in mineralogy, which is the study of minerals. Because of his knowledge, he became a member of the Royal Society of London in 1805. This is a very old and respected scientific group.
In 1806, he also became a member of the Royal Society of Edinburgh. From 1837, he served as the Lord Lieutenant of Fife.
Robert Ferguson passed away in London on December 3, 1840.
Memorials and Recognition
There is a large monument dedicated to Robert Ferguson near Haddington. It was designed by a sculptor named Robert Forrest in 1843.
You can also find a memorial for him inside Abbotshall Church in Fife.
His Portrait
The famous artist Sir Henry Raeburn painted a portrait of Robert Ferguson when he was younger. This painting is called "The Archers" and also shows his brother, Ronald.
Two monuments, known as the Raith Monuments, were built to remember him. One is in Fife and the other is in Haddington. Both were designed by Robert Forrest.
