3. The Quest for Solvency

Scottish landowners were constantly seeking ways of improving their finances- they kept away from their creditors, looked for rich wives, sent their boys to Jesuit schools on the Continent, travelled to Holland to trade, opened mines and saltpans, and worked as agents for neighbours and relations. The Ramsays did all this, but were as cash-strapped as anyone in the 18th century.

15.2. Admission to the office of Advocate

Sir Andrew’s letter of admission to the office of Advocate in 1704 has been preserved among the family papers. His portrait was commissioned later, possibly…

15.1. Ramsay 2nd Baronet Whitehill

Sir John Ramsay, Baronet of Whitehill, born 26 Feb 1645. He was the second son of Simon Ramsay, Advocate, who had purchased Whitehill in 1623…

Elisabeth Learmonth

Elizabeth Learmonth was the only child of Thomas Leirmonth, a wealthy advocate in Edinburgh. She was married to Andrew Ramsay in April 1716, and brought…

John Ramsay, Bart. (the last baronet)

A quick recap of the four John Ramsays who feature in this record. 1. Sir John Ramsay of Whitehill, 1st Baronet and Anne Ramsay; brother of…

18. Mrs Calderwood of Polton

Magaret CALDERWOOD (1715–1774), was a daughter of Sir James Steuart of Coltness, bart., sometime solicitor-general for Scotland. She married Thomas Calderwood of Polton in 1735….

19. The Ramsay wardrobe

Nothing attests so firmly to the importance of appearance in the 18th century as the coats that the men wore! The Ramsay men were dark…

20. The Ramsay holster

Edinburgh citizens needed to watch out, not only for creditors, but for footpads and highwaymen. So, it made sense to keep a pistol handy in…

21. Keeping elegant time

This clock was in the National Trust’s Georgian House, in the main bedroom for many years. Visitors to Edinburgh would come and visit it, in…

22. Elisabeth Learmont’s silverware