Old Photograph Thomas Guthrie Scotland

Old photograph of Thomas Guthrie born 12 July 1803 in Brechin in Angus, Scotland. John was one of the most popular preachers of his day in Scotland, and was associated with many forms of philanthropy, especially temperance and Ragged Schools, of which he was a founder. Guthrie studied at Edinburgh University for both surgery and anatomy, under Dr Robert Knox, but then concentrated on Theology. He was licensed to preach from 1825, and became the Minister of Arbirlot, in Angus in 1830, and then of Old Greyfriars Parish Church, Edinburgh in 1837. In 1840 he planted a new church in Victoria Street called St. John's Parish Church Edinburgh. After the Disruption of 1843 his congregation worshiped for 2 years in the Methodist Hall in Nicholson Square before moving into the purpose built Free St John's, Johnston Terrace, now St Columba's Free Church, in 1845. He possessed of a commanding presence and voice, and a remarkably effective and picturesque style of oratory. He was made Moderator of the Free Church of Scotland in 1862. Other roles included manager of Edinburgh Royal Infirmary, work for the Blind Asylum and work at the Night Refuge. He died in at his house in St. Leonards, Edinburgh in 1873 and was buried in The Grange Cemetery, Edinburgh. His grave is in a commanding position, terminating the main central avenue at its southern end. His will left his copy of the National Covenant to the Free Church. His wife, Anne Burns, born 1810, died 1899, daughter of Reverend James Burns of Brechin, is buried with him. Blog post of interest to folks with ancestry, genealogy or Scottish Family Roots in Scotland who may wish to travel and visit one day.



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