Thomas Reid's tombstone facts for kids
Thomas Reid (1710–1796) was a very important thinker. He was a professor at the University of Glasgow. He also started a way of thinking called the Scottish common sense movement. This idea focused on what people naturally believe to be true.
What's really cool is that his tombstone is inside the main building of Glasgow University. It's right under the huge 85-meter (278 feet) tall tower! Thomas Reid was first buried in a churchyard in Glasgow. When the university moved in 1870, his tombstone was moved too. It was placed in its current spot when the tower was being built. This made it a special memorial for him.
What the Tombstone Says
The words on Thomas Reid's tombstone are in Latin. They tell us about his life and work. Here's what the main part of the inscription means:
This is to remember Thomas Reid. He used to be a Philosophy Professor in Aberdeen. Later, from 1764 to 1796, he taught Moral Philosophy at the University of Glasgow. He changed how people thought about the human mind. He was like the famous Lord Bacon, who changed how people thought about nature. Thomas Reid was very smart and knew many things. He was also very serious and kind. He passed away on October 7, 1796, when he was 86 years old. His bones are buried here with his beloved wife, Elizabeth Reid. Also buried here are three of their daughters who died too young. His loving daughter, Martha Carmichael, who was his only child still alive, had this monument put up.
Why His Remains Were Moved
When the old Glasgow College buildings were taken down, Thomas Reid's remains were moved. They were placed with other professors and their families. This new burial spot is called the Professors' Monument. It is located in the Glasgow Necropolis. This is a large cemetery near Glasgow Cathedral.
The monument has its own inscription. It says: "To remember Professors of the University of Glasgow. Also, members of their families. Their bodies were first buried in Blackfriars Churchyard. They were moved here in 1876."
