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GENEALOGY COLLECTION
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GENEALOGY
929.2
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CONTRIBUTIONS ^
TOWARDS A
NELSON GENEALOGY.
SOME NEILSONS OF SCOTLAND.
By WILLIAM NELSON.
Paterson, N. J.:
Thk Paterson History Club.
Copyrighted, 1904. by William Nelson.
ONE HUNDRED COPIES PRINTED.
1381517
CONTENTS.
Forewords .
Elxtracts from "History of the Lands and their Owners in Gallo-
way" (Scotland), relating to the Neilsons 1
Conunissariat of Glasgow Testaments, being extracts from Neilson
wills. 1564-1737 16
Genealogical Table of the Foregoing Wills 37
Extracts from the Rental Book of the Diocese of Glasgow, relating
to Neilsons 42
Abstract of Protocol of the Diocese of Glasgow, relating to James
Neilson, Proctor, 1503-1513; James Neilson, Vicar of Clon-
mell, 1607-1512; and other Nelsons. 1506-1510 45
Extracts from Wodrow's "History of the Sufferings of the Church
of Scotland," etc., relating to the persecution and martyrdom
of John Neilson of Corsock, who died for the faith
FOREWORDS.
In the course of some investigations concerning the Nelson Fam-
ily, pursued personally and with the aid of expert genealogists in
England, Ireland and Scotland, the writer has inclined to the belief
that in all probability there are two distinct origins of the family, one
Celtic, and the other English, and more remotely Scandinavian. '
The former claims descent from that Neil, Earl of Carrick, who
died in 1256, and whose three sons, at a critical period, brought their
warrior septs from the North of Ireland to the assistance of Robert
the Bruce, and so aided materially in seating him on the Scottish
throne. In token of the royal gratitude the King granted great es-
tates to the three brothers— to William and John lands in CraigcaiBe,
m the parish of Loch Ryan, Wigtonshire ; and to Gilbert a third of
Cameleden (now Cumloden), parish of Minnigaff, Kirkcudbright-
shire—all being in that southeastern district of Scotland known as
Galloway. In the original charters these brothers are described as
IVilliam Alius Nigilli; Gilbcrti fil Nigelli, and John fit Nigelli et Car-
rick: that is, William son of Neil; Gilbert son of Neil; and John
son of Neil and Carrick; which by a transition easy to the Lowland
Scotch in the course of time became William, Neil's son; Gilbert,
Neil's son, and John, Neil's son, whence Neilson. The Highland
form, Mac Neil, was sometimes used, but the Celtic, O'Neil, is sel-
dom if ever found in the Scottish annals.
At Craigcaffie the Neilsons built a strong house or fortalice, which
was still standing in 1870, though so far descended from its original
knightly character as to be used as a farm-house— a change significant
of the transformation which six or seven centuries have wrought in
the social conditions of Galloway.'
The arms of the Neilsons of Craigcaffie are described as : argent,
three left hands (gules ?), bend sinisterways, two in chief and one
in base, holding a dagger azure. Gilbert Neilson bore them in this
form : Chevron, argent, and or, in chief two sinister hands couped,
and erect, gules, and in base a similar hand holding a dagger, azure,
point downwards. Crest, a dexter hand holding a lance erect, proper.
Motto — Hie Regi servitium.'
Tragic is the story of the Neilsons of Corsock, which place was
granted to John Neilson and his wife, Isabel Gordon, in 1439. John
Neilson of Corsock was cruelly persecuted for his adherence to the
Presbyterian Church, and finally, after most barbarous torture, was
executed at Edinburgh in December, 1666. In 1749 another John
Neilson of Corsock died in South Carolina, whither he had removed
in the vain hope of restoring the fortunes of his family. The arms
of the Corsock Neilsons differed slightly from those of Craigcaffie,
being : Argent, three left hands, bend sinister, two in chief, and one
in base, holding a dagger azure, with a crescent in the centre for the
difference. Crest, a dexter hand, holding a lance erect, proper.
Motto — Hie Regi scrvitiutn}
These arms are obviously derived from those of the founder of
the Neil family, known as Red O'Neil, or O'Neil of the Red Hand,
whose arms were : Argent, a sinister hand, couped at the wrist, gules,
proper. This was said to commemorate a fierce contest between some
of those wild chieftains of the olden time to reach first the shore of
an enemy, and so to lead in the attack. Neil was outstripped by some
of his companions in arms, but not to be outdone drew his sword, cut
off his left hand, and with the shout, "O Neil !" hurled the ghastly,
bloody member to land, before any of the other chieftains had gained
the shore. Hence, according to the fanciful Irish legend, the name,
"O'Neill," and the arms of the family. The three bloody hands on
the shield of the Scottish Neilsons signify the three sons of him whose
shield bore the Red Hand.
The proximity of Scotland to the North of Ireland, and the reli-
gious and political influences invoked in the early years of the sev-
enteenth century, brought about a large emigration from Galloway,
and among those thus interested in the "Plantation of Ulster" were
many Neilsons. There was a certain poetic fitness in this settlement
of the Irish province by the Neilsons of Scotland, who all unwit-
tingly were made the instruments for the dispossession of the great
Earl Neil of Ulster, and thus, after four centuries spent in Scotland,
were brought to their own again, after a fashion, they being, with
the dispossessed Earl, descended from a common ancestor. Earl Neil
of Carrick.
Another stream of emigration from the Lowlands of Scotland
poured over the English border into Yorkshire, and from the Neil-
sons who thus came into England the Virginia Nelsons trace their
origin.
It is but natural to suppose that the Nelsons of Lancashire, Eng-
land, are similarly of Scottish origin ; but some of this family claim
that their lands have been in their possession for eight centuries.
The records of the Hundred of Leyland seem to bear out this state-
ment. If this is true it would preclude the theory of a descent from
the Neilsons of Scotland, and would point more directly to the Scan-
iSee Nos. 7, 8, 9, 10, 13. 14, IB, 16, pages 2-10. 52-56, post.
dinavian freebooters of the seventh to the ninth centuries as being
more probably the ancestors of the Nelsons of this region. The arms
of the Nelsons of Maudesley and Fairhurst, Lancashire, dating at
least from 1664, are : Argent, a cross flory sa. over all a bend gules.
Other Lancashire Nelsons bear arms : Or, a cross patonce sa. be-
tween four mullets gu. a bendlet of the last. Crest: a lion's gamb
erect ppr. holding an escutcheon sa. thereon a cross patonce or.
There are differences, distinguishing various families.'
The Nelsons of Bedale, Yorkshire, England, have arms : Per pale
ar. and sa. a chev. between three fleurs-de-lis, all countercharged.
The Nelsons of Grimston, Yorkshire, bear the same arms, and the
crest : A cubit arm quarterly, ar. and sa. holding in the hand ppr. a
fleur-de-lis per pale ar. and sa.
The marked differences in these arms indicate separate origins
for the Scottish, the Lancashire and the Yorkshire families, notwith-
standing the general proximity of the seats of all three.
The name Nelson is found in nearly every county in England, but
perhaps more numerously in the seaboard counties, which were espe-
cially exposed to the ravages of the Norse vikings.
Among the Scandinavians family names were unknown, the son
being designated by his father's name, with the suffix sen. Thus,
Jan the son of Hans would be known as Jan Hanssen ; William son
of Nils (the popular abbreviation of Nicholas) would be called
William Nilssen, easily varied into William Nelson. The process has
been going on for nearly three hundred years in the southern part of
New Jersey, settled about 1635 by the Swedes, among whose descend-
ants are many Nelsons, who have acquired their family name in the
manner described.
In the North of Ireland the names Neilson and Nelson are found
in the same parish, and members of the same family spell the name
differently. The probabilities are, as intimated above, that most if
not all these families are descended from the Scottish Neilsons. But
there remains the possibility that the Nelsons of Lancashire and of
London and vicinity were located in Ulster by the London and other
companies engaged in the Plantation of the province in the seven-
teenth century.
In view of the manifest descent of so large a portion of the Nel-
sons from the Scottish family, the writer has collected the following
notes from various sources not readily accessible, in order to make
a preliminary contribution towards a Nelson Genealogy.
The facts gleaned from the "History of the Lands and their Own-
ers in Galloway" are of much interest and value in relation to the
the Free
viii
Neilsons. The conjectures of the author of that work are of less
importance, but are given for what they are worth.
The extracts from "Commissariat of Glasgow Testaments," from
1564 to 1737, there being sixty-three Neilson wills abstracted, were
made by a thoroughly competent expert from the records in the Pub-
lic Record Office in Edinburgh, at the writer's request, and as they
have never been published they constitute a distinct contribution to
the subject. The Genealogical Table of these extracts of wills has
been prepared by the writer, to embody in condensed form the data
thus presented.
The extracts from the Rental Book of Glasgow show the location
of many Neilsons in that Diocese, from 1510 to 1565, with sundry
particulars as to their means, occupations, relationships, etc.
The extracts relating to James Neilson, Proctor in the Diocese of
Glasgow, 1503-1512, indicate that he was a man of much prominence;
James Neilson, Vicar of Clonmell, 1507-1512, appears to have exer-
cised considerable influence in his office; and the other Neilsons men-
tioned on page 51, post, were also potent factors in their several local-
ities.
The story of John Neilson of Corsock, and of his martyrdom for
his faith, taken from Wodrow's "History of the Sufferings of the
Church of Scotland," is of thrilling interest. It is but a single illus-
tration, which might be multiplied indefinitely, of the heroic stuff of
which the Neilsons of Scotland were made.
If time and opportunity permit, the writer hopes to publish further
contributions towards a Nelson Genealogy.
Paterson, N. J., July 25, 1904
NELSON FAMILY
GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL NOTES.
Extracts from "History of the Lands and their Owners In
Galloway . . . With a historical siietch of the district."
By Peter Handyside MacKerlie. 5 Vols.
Edinburgh, 1870-79.
WIGTONSHIRE.
1. Kirl<lands-Parish of Leswalt. Vol. I, p. 119.
In November, 1644, Gilbert Neilsone had sasine of the
lands; but this was, no doubt, in security, for Thomas
Boyd had sasine of the same lands, 24th November, 1671.
The infeftment of Gilbert Neilsone no doubt arose from
the fact that Thomas Boyd was fined, about the year 1662,
in the sum of £360, for his adherence to Presbyterianism.
2. Donlochi, or Duniocii— Parish of Kirl<colm p.
129. We afterwards trace that, in October, 1623, Gil-
bert Neilsone had sasine of an annual rent of "fourtie-five
merkis furth of the landis of Dunloch."
3. Loclinaw- Parish of Leswalt. p. 99. In a
precept for the infeftment of Andrew Agnew, as heir to
his father, in the lands of Lochnaw, &c., i6th May, 1455,
the name "rollandson (Roland) son of Andrew Neilson"
appears as a witness.
2 GALLOWAY FAMILIES
4. Balneil-Parish of NewLuce. Vol. 2, p. 244.
In "Balneil" we have the town or residence of Neil, prob-
ably some descendant of him of Carrick, the ancestor of
the Neilsons, which name in the suffix has, however, a
Scandinavian termination. Indeed, the whole name may
be considered as such.
5. Craigcaffie-Parish of LochRyan. p. 208.
Nesbit gives the armorial bearings of the Neilsons as : Ar-
gent, three left hands, bend sinisterways, two in chief, and
one in base, holding a dagger azure. Or, as Gilbert Neil-
sone of Craigcaffie bore them : Cheveron, argent, and or,
in chief two sinister hands couped, and erect gules, and in
base a dagger, point downwards. Crest, a dexter hand
holding a lance erect, proper. Motto — Hie Regi servitium.
KIRKCUDBRIGHTSHIRE.
6. Duohra, now Hensol-Parish of Balmaghie
Vol.3, pp 150-151. Also at the same time [November
1665] Thomas Neilson, son to James Neilson of Arrie,
and Marion Gordon, his spouse, had sasine of the ten shil-
ling land of the Maynes of Duchra ********
* * * * On 6th July 17 11 James Neilsone in Drum-
glass, had sasine of the forty shilling land of Mains of Du-
chrae, &c.
7. Barscobe-Parish of Balmaclellan. pp. 67-68.
It is stated that a daughter of William M'Clellan of Bars-
cobe married Robert Neilson of Corsock, parish of Par-
toun. ************ In August
1666 John Neilsone of Corsock, parish of Partoun, had
sasine of Barscobe. As he was his [Robert M'Clellan's]
cousin, and also a Covenanter, no doubt it was friendly
aid.
Succeeding the Revolution, on the 2d January, 1 691,
John, son of John Neilson of Corsock, had retour.
KIRKCUDBRIGHTSHIRE NELSONS 3
8. Drumanister-Parish of Balmaclellan. p. 103.
The first notice of this farm found by us is in August,
1666, when John Neilson of Corsock had sasine. Then,
on the 15th January, 1674, James Cannan of Barnsalloch
had principal sasine. Both the Neilsons and Cannans hav-
ing been Covenanters, and their lands forfeited, in May,
1682, the usual representative of Prelacy, George, Lord
Livingstone, had sasine of the mylne lands of Dennister,
&c. Hov^rever, as with their other lands, Drumanister was
restored to the Neilsons, John, son of John of Corsock,
having had retour on the 2d January, 1691.
9. Fairgarth or Forgarth-Parish of Colvend. p.
338. Next there is the statement made by Nesbit that he
saw a precept granted by James Lindsay, dated in 1489,
in favor of John Neilson of Corsock.
10. Earlstown-Parish of Dairy, p. 422. It is
stated that a daughter of Sir Alexander Gordon of Earls-
town, viz., Ann, born 1679, married in 1697 John Neilson
of Corsock, parish of Parton, and had issue.
11. Breconside-Parish of Kirkgunzeon. Vol. 4,
p. 226. It is stated that a daughter of John Maxwell of
Breconside, viz., Catherine, married Robert Neilson of
Barncailzie, parish of Kirkpatrick-Durham. Died in 1758.
12. Cumloden— Parish of Minnigaff. p. 411. To
whom the land belonged prior to the time of Robert the
Bruce we are not in possession of. He granted to Gil-
berti fil Nigelli a charter of tertiam partem terrae de Cam-
eleden. He was brother to John, who obtained Craigcaffie,
parish of Lochryan, as the next entry is "Johannis fil Ni-
gelli et Carricke, terre de Kellechaffe in Gallovidia." The
surname became Neilson. The name is to be found in
Scandinavia.
4 GALLOWAY FAMILIES
13, Corsock-Parish of Parton. Vol. 5, pp. 41-46.
This property can be traced to the fourteenth century.
There is a charter from King David II. in confirmation of
a grant to Walter Stewart of Dalswinton, from John
Randolph, Earl of Moray, who fell at Durham in 1346,
of the lands of Corsock. This, however, could only have
been one of those "sheepskin" transactions which those in
favor at court were indulged in so much. The lands at
this time appear to have been owned by the Lindsays.
Subsequently there was a precept granted by James Lind-
say of Forgirth (parish of Colvend), infefting John Neil-
son and his wife Isabel Gordon in the lands of Corsock,
which is dated in 1439; also a charter of confirmation,
dated 20th July 1444, to Fergus Neilson, son and heir to
John Neilson of Corsock, by Sir John Forrester of Cor-
storphine (Edinburgh), and his wife Marion Stewart,
which no doubt referred to the superiority obtained in the
manner above described. The lands or farms comprising
the estate are not mentioned.
Before proceeding further, we will refer to the state-
ment given by Nesbit in his Heraldry, that the surname
Neilson was originally O'Neal, three brothers bearing it
having arrived from Ireland who served with bravery
under King Robert the Bruce. The hammers borne in
the armorial bearings of the Neilsons of Corsock have
been made use of to show by what weapon the service
was rendered. We have no wish to go against well-sus-
tained traditions, but we do not think this one. We think
it is generally admitted that Gaelic was the language then
in use in the district, and we therefore scarcely think it
probable that Erse settlers would have the prefix "O"
changed to the suffix "son." By Robertson's "Index of
Charters" the name appears in Gaelic as MacNeil, which
would have been retained if correct. The extract given
is, "Joannis filii Gilberti M'Neil, quinque denariatas terre,
NELSONS OF CORSOCK 5
in lie Rinns de Gallovidia." The charter in which it ap-
pears was granted by King Robert Bruce. We can under-
stand that as descendants of Neil, Earl of Carrick, they
subsequently added "son," as the family was not of Celtic
origin. Nesbit, indeed, tells what we gave under Craig-
caffie, parish of Lochryan, Vol. I., that the first known
was "William," described in a charter which Nesbit saw,
as "filius Nigilli." This charter was also granted by King
Robert I., the lands being those of Craigo.
14. We will now follow Nesbit in his statement, ad-
ding other information, that in 1497 a charter was granted
by James Lindsay of Fairgirth, parish of Colvend, to
John Neilson of Corsock, who married a daughter of John
( ?) Cairns of Orchardtown, parish of Rerwick; that by
her he had a son (name not given), who got the land of
Arvie, which family ended in three daughters who died
without issue, and the land was purchased by Corsock.
Secondly: That he married Janeta, daughter of (James)
Lindsay of Fairgirth, and had a son, John, who succeeded
to the lands of Corsock, by charters granted in 1539 and
1546. Also that John Neilson married a daughter of
Kirkwall or Kirko of Bogrie (parish of
Lochrutton), and was succeeded by his son John, who
was in possession on the 15th March, 161 1, and built the
present house of Corsock, on which a stone was placed
above the head of the door of the tower, with the date, and
the shield with their arms, but without crest or motto. He
married Margaret, daughter of James Gordon of Macart-
ney, now Walton Park, parish of Kirkpatrick-Durham,
and had issue :
Robert.
Gilbert.
We find that he was succeeded by his son Robert, who,
on the 29th July, 1630, was infeft in the lands of Little
6 GALLOWAY FAMILIES
Corsock, Marnhowle, Blackmark, and Arvie. We have
been inclined to think that the property was divided
under the designation of Meikle and Little Corsock ; that
the first was owned by the Lindsays and the latter by the
Neilsons. This opinion we think is confirmed by the fact
that on the 15th of March, 1664, James Lindsay, heir (pro
avi) of James Lindsay of Forgirth, was infeft in the land
Meikle Corsock, Auchinvey, and Ryis.
In the valuation roll of 1642, Robert Neilson possessed
also Auchenvey, Mairnhowl, and Cruchie. At the same
period James Neilson owned Arvie and Loch, with Low
Arvie, and Robert Glendonwyne of Parton, and his son
James, Lower Armannoch.
Robert Neilson married , daughter of William
Maclellan of Barscobe, parish of Balmaclellan. He had
issue :
John.
He succeeded his father, and was infeft on the 19th
September, 1654. He married Annie, eldest daughter of
Sir Alexander Gordon of Earlstoun, parish of Dairy, and
had issue :
John.
Margaret, who died unmarried in 1780.
John Neilson of Little Corsock was cruelly persecuted
for his attachment to the Presbyterian Church. About
1662 he was fined £600. Fined and persecuted, he was at
length forced to leave his home ; troops were quartered at
his house; his wife and children turned out; his tenants
also ruined from being compelled to furnish the troops
with provisions. That he took up arms was the natural
result. He was taken prisoner, and after excruciating
sufferings from the application of "The Boot" (a diaboli-
cal instrument of torture, of the same character as "The
Scavenger's Daughter" in England) he was tried and sen-
tenced to be hanged at Edinburgh on the 14th of Decern-
NELSONS OF CORSOCK 7
ber, 1666, with the usual forfeiture of lands. Immedi-
ately after his execution, Maxwell of Milton, parish of
Urr, with thirty men, proceeded to his house, to which his
family had returned, and under cover of legal authority
they were again turned out and everything seized that was
fancied. At this black period it was usual to try and save
lands by transfer, and in this case, in February, 1666, we
find that Gilbert, the uncle of John Neilson, had sasine.
We will now refer to the Lindsays. Whom James Lind-
say, already named, married we do not learn, but he had
issue :
James.
Alexander.
Francis.
Samuel.
Janet.
On the 6th January, 1680, James, his son, was infeft.
We find nothing more of the Lindsays.
15. In regard to the Neilsons, on the 2d January, 1691,
John, son of John Neilson, had retour of Corsock-Lindsay,
comprehended in Little Corsock, viz., Warnhoill (Mairn-
howl), Blackmart, Ervie, Creich, Auchinvae, Nether Ar-
mannoch, in the parish of Partoun ; also Lairdlach, in the
parish of Kirkpatrick-Durham; and Barscobe, Mark or
Earmark, Drumanister and Corodow, in the parish of Bal-
maclellan. In what way John Neilson became possessed
of all these lands does not appear. They were not en-
joyed very long, if at all, for we have found in other cases
that claims were made, and retour obtained, when others
were in possession. On the 2d July, in the same year,
John Maxwell of Middlebie had principal sasine of the
five-merk land of Nether Corsock, &c., followed on the
5th April, 1692, by John Neilson of Corsock. Also on
the 2d January, 1705, Alexander M'Ghie, son to Alexan-
8 GALLOWAY FAMILIES
der M'Ghie of Over Armanoch, had sasine of Over Arma-
noch.
John Neilson was married, but his wife's name is not
known to us. So far as learned, they had issue, one son :
John.
John Neilson died in 1708, and was succeeded by his
son, then a minor, whose mother it is stated managed the
estate satisfactorily during his minority. He married, in
1722, Janet, daughter and heiress of Robert Rae of Car-
gen, parish of Troqueer. It was a runaway marriage.
On the 5th January, 1723, John Neilson of Corsock had
sasine of the twenty shilling land of Corsock. Again, on
the 1st December, 1738, John Neilson of Corsock, heir to
his father the deceased John Neilson of Corsock, had
sasine of the five merk, twelve shilling and eightpenny
land of Corsock-Lindsay, &c. On the 4th November pre-
viously, Dorothea Clerk-Maxwell, daughter of the de-
ceased William Clerk, advocate, and the deceased Agnes
Maxwell, his spouse, and then spouse to George Clerk-
Maxwell of Middlebie, second son to Sir John Clerk, bar-
onet, and Baron of the Exchequer, had sasine of Nether
Corsock, &c.
John Neilson's marriage involved him in much after
trouble, and added to his family difficulties. At last the
land, being so much encumbered, got into the hands of
creditors. He was obliged to leave his family, and ac-
cepted a situation in South Carolina. He sailed on the
20th October, 1748, and died there about a year afterwards
— a sad end. At that time these parts, and the West-
Indies, finished the earthly career of many a wanderer
from Scotland, in search of wealth. He left issue :
Richard.
Thomas, a surgeon, went abroad, and died in 1758.
Archibald went to North Carolina, but returned in 1776
and succeeded his brother as a manufacturer in Dundee.
NELSONS OF CORSOCK 9
Ann, and two other daughters, whose names are not
given. They all died unmarried.
On the 5th December, 1748, Mrs. Janet Rae, only law-
ful daughter of the deceased Richard Rae of Cargen, and
spouse to John Neilson of Corsock, had sasine. On the
nth May, 175 1, Andrew Crosbie of Merkland had sasine
thereof. Then, on the ist June, 1754, Richard Neilson,
manufacturer in Dundee, eldest son of the deceased John
Neilson of Corsock, and Janet Roe (Rae), his spouse,
had sasine of the five lib. land of Cargen, etc., parish of
Troqueer. It would appear from this that he had suc-
ceeded to these lands in right of his mother. She was
alive subsequent to this date, as we find in September,
1760, that Janet Rae, relict of John Neilson of Corsock,
had sasine, but of which lands is not stated — no doubt of
Cargen.
From what we have given, it will be seen that the last
of the Neilsons of Corsock was John, whose death in a
foreign land — where, of course, he had gone to try and
retrieve his fortune — with separation from his family, was
a melancholy end. At that period a voyage across the
Atlantic was no ordinary undertaking, as it now is, but
one which was tedious; and in the Southern States pesti-
lence and death were rife, as they were then throughout
the western tropics. His eldest son, Richard, manufac-
turer in Dundee, succeeded as the representative of the
family. He married Christian, daughter of James Guth-
rie of Craigie, and had issue :
Archibald.
William.
David.
Josiah.
Janet.
lO GALLOWAY FAMILIES
16. The armorial bearings of the Neilsons of Corsock
were:
Arms — Argent, three left hands, bend sinister, two in
chief, and one in base, holding a dagger azure, with a
crescent in the centre for the difference.
Crest — A dexter hand holding a lance erect, proper.
Motto — Hie regi servitium.
WIGTONSHIRE.
17. Craigcaffie, or Craigcathie— Parish of Loch-
ryan. Vol. 1, pp. 136-39. This property appears
from Robertson's Index to Charters, in the Great Seal
Register, to have been granted by Robert the Bruce to
John, son of Neil of Carrick. The lands are therein
called Kellechaffe. Instead of the usual Gaelic prefix Mac,
they added the word "son" to Neil, hence Neilson. The
Neilsons are said to have traced their descent from Neil,
Earl of Carrick, who died in 1256. The properly they
acquired was never large. At Craigcaffie they built a
strong house or fortalice, sometimes called a castle. It
still stands, and is occupied by farm servants.'^ The situa-
tion, in a hollow, was not well chosen. It is to the east of
Innermessan, and was surrounded by a fosse. As to the
family, no very consecutive account can now be gathered.
Nigello Nelsoun had a charter of the lands of Cragcathy
from James III., 12th July, 1474.
Then there is a long blank of more than a century, when
we find a charter to John Neilsoun of Craigcaffie, arid his
spouse, Margaret Strang, of the Mill of Innermessan, &c.,
29th July, 1592. He had previously had a charter of
Craigcaffie, Smertoun, &c., united, 22d July, 1591. He
1 "The Castle of Craigcaffei, formerly the seat of the extinct family of
the Nelsons of Craigcaffel, Is still entire, and has been transmuted Into
a farm-house." It Is In the parish of Inch, In Wlgtonshlre. See "The
Topographical, Statistical, and Historical Gazetteer of Scotland," Glas-
gow, 1844, H., 2.
NELSONS OF CRAIGCAFFIE II
appears to have had a son, Alexander, who, in a charter of
"Nether Craig, ahas Craigcaffie," dated 2d July, 1601, is
described as the eldest son of John Neilsoun of Craig-
caffie. He had also another son, Gilbert, who had a char-
ter of the mill of Innermessan, 29th November, 16x4.
This Gilbert seems to have been an advocate, for he is so
styled in a sasine, 31st December, 1618, as heir to his
brother Alexander. In 1623 (23d April) he had the es-
cheat of William Stewart of Dunduiif, in Ayrshire, con-
ferred on him; and in July of the same year he had a
charter of Blairquhan, no doubt as a guarantee for money
advanced to the Kennedies of that place, who were then
considerably embarrassed. Gilbert had a 3on, Thomas,
who, in a charter of the Barony of Craigcafhe, T6th June,
1639, is described as "filio natu maximo Gilberti Neilsoun
de Craigcaffie." The same Gilbert, we presum.e, had a
charter of Pinbraid, Blackfardin, &c., in the county of
Ayr, 28th November, 1635.
The successor of Thomas was Gilbert, probably his son.
Gilbert Neilsoun of Craigcaffie, advocate, had a charter
of the lands of Leachtis, &c., 29th July, 1642, upon which
sasine followed, loth August of the same year. He had
also sasine of the lands and barony of Craigcaffie in No-
vember, 1643. Robert Neilson, junior — but whether or
not the son of Gilbert does not appear — had a charter of
the lands of Craigcaffie, 13th September, 1647. '^^his
Robert seems to have been succeeded by another Gilbert,
who, in December, 1647, had sasine of the lands and bar-
ony of Craigcaffie. He had a charter of the barony of
Leacht, 4th April, 1649, and sasine thereafter in Novem-
ber of the same year. Gilbert Neilson of Craigcaffie was
fined in £1300 for his adherence to the Presbyterian faith,
about 1662.
Gilbert Neilson of Craigcaffie — but whether the same
individual does not appear — had a charter of the barony.
12 GALLOWAY FAMILIES
14th July, 1675. In August, 1678, Gilbert Neilsone,
younger, had sasine of the lands and barony of Craig-
caffie. The family, about this period, or perhaps some
time before, seem to have been involved in considerable
pecuniary difficulties. In June, 1682, Cornelius Neilsone,
merchant in Edinburgh, and Margaret Keith, his spouse,
had sasine of the lands and barony, houses, yeards, &c.
In this instrument, as in the first charter quoted, the name
is spelled Craigcathie. Then, in May, 1688, Sir Thomas
Kennedy of Kirkhill, late provost of Edinburgh, had sa-
sine of the lands and barony. These were, no doubt, in
security of loans advanced; for, on the 9th September,
1695, Gilbert Neilsone of Craigcaffie had sasine of the
lands of Meikle and Little Laight, with the fishing, &c.
He appears to have married Margaret Kennedy, who, in
a sasine, dated 23d September, 1720, is mentioned as the
spouse of Gilbert Neilson of Craigcaffie. They had a son :
John Neilson of Craigcaffie, who in a charter of resig-
nation of the barony, 12th February, 1709, is styled
"senioris de Craigcaffie." He had also a son named John,
who appears to have a held a commission either in the
army or navy. On the 12th May, 17 10, Lieut. John Neil-
sone and Agnes Bell, his spouse, had sasine of the lands
of Craigcaffie. On the 6th June, 1722, Thomas Kennedy,
advocate, had also sasine of the lands and barony, both
evidently as securities.
John Neilson and his son had a charter of resignation
of the lands of Craigcaffie, 26th July, 1732; and on the
24th February, 1738, John Neilson, elder, of Craigcaffie,
and Mrs. Agnes Bell, his spouse, granted a reversion to
John Neilson, their eldest son, of their liferent of the lands
of Craigcaffie. Again, on the 21st November, 1732, Lieu-
tenant John Neilson of Craigcaffie, and John Neilson, his
eldest son, had sasine of the lands of Craigcaffie, Braid,
and Braidyeard. Then, on the ist November, 1758, John
NELSONS OF CRAIGCAFFIE 13
Neilson had sasine of the lands of Craigcaffie, and on the
3d May, 1759, Mary Ross, his spouse, had sasine.
This seems to have been the last of the Craigcaffie fam-
ily. They were of good and ancient lineage. The prop-
erty was small, and did not expand like others in the dis-
trict, no doubt from lack of Court, or, what was even bet-
ter, Church influence.
18. On the 2d June, 1759, John M'Dowall of Logan
had sasine of the lands of Craigcaffie, and on the 15th
November, 1791, the Earl of Stair was duly infeft on a
Crown charter.
The Craigcaffie family sent forth various branches
from time to time. According to the Great Seal Register,
there were, in the Stewartry, the Neilsons of Chepman-
leis, of Meithfield, Corsok, &c.; and in Wigtonshire, of
Lacht, Chapel, &c.
19. Barncalzie-Parish of Kirkpatrick- Durham.
Vol. 4, pp. 309-12. The first notice found by us in
regard to this land is that Gilbert, second son of Neil
Neilson of Craigcaffie, parish of Lochryan, obtained a
charter from Henry, bishop of Whithorn, dean of the
Chapel Royal of Sterling, and commendator of the mon-
astery of Dundranan, with the special advice of the haill
convent, of all and haill the lands of Barncalzie, Larg-
laught, etc., under date 20th December, 1537. This was
by virtue of a precept contained in a letter of confirma-
tion by Pope Paul III. He was infeft in the haill lands
on the 3d August, 1541. Whom Gilbert Neilson married
is not known, but, so far as learned, he had issue :
William.
He succeeded his father, and got a precept of clare con-
stat from Adam, commendator of Dundrennan,^ by infeft-
1 The ancient name of the parish of Rerwick.
14 GALLOWAY FAMILIES
ing him as heir, under date 17th June, 1547. William
married and had issue:
John.
John succeeded. He married , daughter of
MacKnight of Kilquhannadie, and had two sons :
John.
William, of Marquhorns.
John was infeft in the land on a precept of clare con-
stat from Edward, commendator of Dundrennan, dated
29th April, 1579. He succeeded his father, but died with-
out issue, and was succeeded by his brother William.
Whom he married is not stated, but he had issue :
Gilbert,
He succeeded, and was infeft as nephew and heir of
John of Barncalzie, 20th May, 1588, and by sasine, 8th
May, 1596. The lands of Marquhorns, Knockwalloch,
etc., were confirmed to him by charter from John Murray
of Lochmaben, Superior, 12th May, 1614.
On the 3d June, 1617, John, son of Roger M'Nacht,
merchant burgess, Edinburgh, had sasine of Larglach, or,
as now called, Lairdlaugh. This must have been a wad-
set.
Gilbert Neilson married Grizel, daughter of
Grierson of Capenoch, and had issue:
David.
He succeeded, and had a charter from John Murray of
Lochmaben, dated 17th November, 161 5, and was infeft
on the 7th April, 1618. On the 29th July, 1630, Robert,
son of John Neilson of Corsock, had retour of Largle-
ache. This must either have been a wadset or referring
to the superiority. David Neilson married Isabel, daugh-
ter of John Maclellan of Bar. and had a son :
John.
He succeeded, and had sasine, on the 30th September,
NELSONS OF BARNCAILZIE I 5
1637. John, son of Robert Neilson of Corsock, had re-
tour on the 19th September, 1654. These entries in re-
gard to the Neilsons of Corsock are rather conflicting, as
a John and Robert of Lairdlaugh (or Barncalzie) appear
about the same period. So far as we can judge, they were
distinct, and not one and the same person.
John Neilson of Barncalzie, etc., married, but whom we
do not know. He had issue, but the name of the heir to
the land alone is found. His name was
Robert.
He succeeded, and was infeft on 20th July, 1665. He
obtained a ratification of other lands, which his father had
purchased. He also had sasine of the six merk land of
Corbelly, and two merk land of Garlofif, on the 2d June,
1683. He married Elizabeth, daughter of John Stewart
of Shambelly, parish of New Abbey, and left a son :
Robert.
He succeeded, and was infeft 19th (26th ?) September,
1732. He married Catherine,daughter of Alexander Max-
well of Ferraughty, parish of Troqueer, and had an only
child :
20. Mary.
She was heiress, and had sasine on the 4th June, 1747,
of the merk land of Barncailzie, and the two merk land
of Lairdlaugh, etc. She married Robert Glendonwyn, late
of that ilk, and left issue :
William.
Charles.
Agnes.
21 . She must have sold the lands soon after her mar-
riage, as we find John Syme, writer to signet, of Barncal-
zie. Whom he married is not known to us, but he had a
daughter named Janet, who married William, second son
1 6 GALLOWAY FAMILIES
of John Maxwell of Ferraughty and Munches. The land
was not long retained by John Syme.
In the Valuation Roll of 1799 the only farm named is
Barncalzie, which was then owned by Major General
Thomas Goldie of Goldielea, parish of Troqueer. In 1819,
the Hon. Fletcher Norton of Norton was the owner. He
sold the land to Robert Kirkpatrick-Howat of Mabie, par-
ish of Troqueer. They were again sold to Thomas Boyd
Dick, who was a few years ago proprietor.
22. The farms owned are Lairdlaugh, Westfleld, and
Barncalzie Mains; Shankfoot and Mill pool, Lochpark.
The name Lairdlaugh appears to be a corruption of the
old name Larglaught or Larglach, from the Gaelic learg
or leirg, a little eminence, and the old Scottish word leuch
or leugh, low-lying. The only other name which we will
refer to is Barncalzie, which Pont, in his map, spells Bar-
keylly. We think the proper rendering of it would be
Barcoille, the wooded hill
CommissDriat of GUsgow Testaments.
23. Vol. I. Inventory of the Goods, etc. which per-
tained to the deceased James Neilsoun in Lytill Fulwod,
who died intestate given up by Katherine Sympill his
spouse, and mother to Cristin, Margaret, Jonet and Helen
Neilsoun, daughters to the said deceased James, who are
decerned Executrices Dative to their said father on 8
January 1564.
Free Gear £138. 5s. ..
Robert Neilsoun father to the deceased is mentioned as
a creditor.
Confirmed 8 January 1564.
ABSTRACTS OF NELSON WILLS 1 7
24. Vol. I. Testament Dative and Inventory of the
Goods, etc. of the deceased Issobell Neilsoun spouse to
Patrick Buchanan in Craigtoun, parish of Kilpatrick, who
died in the month of February 1610, given up by the said
Patrik in behalf of Patrik and Agnes Buchanan bairnes
lawful to them, & Executors dative decerned to their said
deceased mother.
Free Gear £40 .. ..
Confirmed 9 July 16 10. Cautioner not named.
25. Vol. 8. Testament Dative and Inventory of the
Goods, etc. of the deceased John Neilsoun in Cubracane
in the parish of Kilerne, who died in February 161 1, given
up by John, Janet, Kathrein and Agnes Neilsoun bairns
procreat betwixt the defunct and Elizabeth Buchanan his
last spouse, and by Andro and John Neilsoun bairns pro-
creat betwixt the deceased and the late Kathrein Barhoick
his first spouse, Executors Dative decerned to him.
Free Gear £132. 14. 4.
Confirmed 26 May 1612. John Buchanan at the Kirk
of Killairne is cautioner.
26. Vol. 9. Testament Dative and Inventory of the
Goods, etc. of the deceased Issobell Neilsoun spouse to
William Mauchane in Garroch in the barony of Glasgow,
who died in Feb. 16 14, given up by John and Archibald
Mauchanes bairns procreat betwixt them, and Executors
Dative decerned to her.
Free Gear £302. 7. 4.
Confirmed 30 April 16 14. John Mauchane in Glasgow
is cautioner.
27. Vol. 11. Testament Testamentary and Inven-
tory of the Goods, etc. of the deceased John Neilsoune in
Over Gyneshill in the parish of Dunlope, who died in Jan-
uary 1615, given up by himself as appears by his Latter
Will.
l8 GLASGOW FAMILIES
Free Gear £256. 8s. ..
In his Will, dated at Gemishill 24 January 1615, the
deceased nominates Jonet Dunlope his spouse his only Ex-
ecutrix, and makes provision for John, Jonet and Mar-
garet Neilsounes his children at the sight of Robert Neil-
soune of Bordland his brother and Robert Neilsoune
younger his son. John Dunlope in Overhill is also an
overseer; and Robert Dunlope elder and younger in
Nether Gymshill are witnesses.
Confirmed 23 Nov. 1615. Andrew Wat in Gymshill is
cautioner.
28. Vol. 13. Testament Dative and Inventory of the
goods, etc. of the deceased Euphame Neilsoune spouse to
Robert Calmeroune merchant burgess of Glasgow, who
died in the month of July 161 6, given up by the said Rob-
ert in behalf of James Calmeroune lawful bairne to them.
Free Gear £47- HS- ••
Confirmed 25 Feb. 1617. James Birscat, tailor, burgess
of Glasgow, is cautioner.
29. Vol.13. Testament Dative and Inventory of the
goods, etc. which pertained to the deceased Finlay Neil-
soune in Birkinheid in the parish of Kilbarchane, who
died in the month of January 161 7, given up by Elizabeth
Clarke his relict in name of Alexander, Christiane and
Margaret Neilsounes bairnes lawful to them, and Execu-
tors Dative decerned to their said deceased father.
Free Gear £148. i6s. ..
Confirmed 2 June 161 7. Lyoune Neilsoune in Southbar
is cautioner.
30. Vol.14. Testament Dative and Inventory of the
Goods, etc. of the late Patrick Neilsoune in Blairquosche
in the parish of Strablane, who died in March 161 7, given
up by Jonet Blair his relict in behalf of James and John
ABSTRACTS OF NELSON WILLS 19
Neilsounes bairnes lawful, and Executors dative decerned
to the defunct.
Free Gear ^392 •• ••
James Neilsoun in Cannothell and Downie Neilsoune
in Caldstreade are mentioned as debtors, and Elspeth
Neilsoune as a creditor.
Confirmed ii Nov. 1617. James Bachope in Drumqu-
hairne is cautioner.
31 . Vol. 14. Testament Dative and Inventory of the
Gk)ods, etc. of the deceased William Neilsoune in Litle
Camhothell in the parish of Balfrone, who died in Febru-
ary 1 616, given up by James Neilsoun his son, and Exec-
utor Dative decerned to his said deceased father.
Free Gear ^3°. 6. 8d.
Confirmed 11 Nov. 161 7. James Bachope in Drumqu-
hairne is cautioner.
32. Vol.14. Testament Dative and Inventory of the
Goods, etc. of the deceased Mareon Armour spouse to
James Neilsoune, maltman, burgess of Glasgow, who died
in April 16 17, given up by the said James in behalf of
William, Jeane and Jonet Neilsounes bairnes lawful to
them.
Free Gear £6 13. 4-
Confirmed 30 Dec. 1617. James Gib, maltman, burgess
of Glasgow, is cautioner.
33. Vo 1 . 1 5 . Testament Dative and Inventory of the
Goods, etc. of the deceased John McClorkane in Craig-
milne and deceased Neilsoune his spouse in the
parish of Innertig, who died both in the month of July
1614, given up by Cristiane McClorkane daughter lawful
and Executrix Dative decerned to the defunct.
Amount of Inventory . . . £79. 6. 8d.
Confirmed 13 June 1618. Patrick McClog in Lersing
is cautioner.
20 GLASGOW FAMILIES
34. Vol. 15. Testament Dative and Inventory of the
Goods, etc. pertaining to the deceased Margaret Neilsoun
spouse to John Reid merchant burgess of Glasgow, who
died in January 1618, given up by herself as to the nom-
ination of the Executor, etc. and partly given up by the
said John Reid.
Free Gear ^3403. 12. 5.
In her Will dated at Glasgow 3 January 1618, the de-
ceased nominates the foresaid John Reid to be her only
Executor; and names legacies to^ James Neilsoun her
brother, James Neilsoun lawful son to Hew Neilsoun
tailor, to Margaret Neilsoun daughter to William N.
younger, and to Mareon and Agnes Neilsoun her two sis-
ters. John Neilsoun burgess of Glasgow is witness to the
Latter WiU.
Confirmed 8 July 1618. Patrik Colquhoun in Rottoun
Raw, burgess of Glasgow, is cautioner.
35. Vo 1 . 1 7 . Testament Dative and Inventory of the
Goods etc. of the deceased Hew Neilsoun tailor burgess of
Glasgow, who died in August 1619, given up by Marga-
ret Sm)rth his relict in behalf of James Neilsoun only law-
ful son and Executor dative to the deceased.
Free Gear £122. 8. 4.
Confirmed 13 Sept. 1620. William Neilsoun younger,
maltman, burgess of Glasgow, is cautioner.
36. Vol. 18. Testament Testamentary and Inven-
tory of the Goods, etc. of the deceased Margaret Smyth
relict of Hew Neilsoun tailor burgess of Glasgow, who
died in the month of January 1622, given up by herself
as to the nomination of her Executors, and partly given
up by William Neilsoun younger maltman burgess of
ABSTRACTS OF NELSON WILLS 2 1
Glasgow, in behalf of James Neilsoun her son only Exec-
utor, acceptor of the same.
Free Gear £43. 18. 8.
The Will, dated at Glasgow 8 January 1622, contains
the nomination of Wm Neilsoun elder, Wm Neilsoun
younger, maltman, and James Neilsoun her lawful son,
her only Executors, and leaves all her property to the
said James, whom she appoints to be guided during his
minority by the said Wm Neilsoun younger.
Confirmed 23 Feb. 1622. William Neilsoun younger
foresaid is cautioner.
37. Vol. 20, pt. 1. Testament Dative and Inventory
of the Goods, etc. of the deceased Jonet Bar spouse to John
Neilsoun, Notary, burgess of Irwen, who died in Decem-
ber 1625, given up by her said spouse in behalf of William,
Alexander, Laurence, Agnes, Jonet and Jeane Neilsoun
lawful bairnes to the defunct, and Executors Dative to
her.
Free Gear £45. 6. 8d.
Confirmed 8 January 1627. James Neilsoun, cordiner,
burgess of Irwen, is cautioner.
38. Vol. 20, pt. 1. Testament Dative and Inventory
of the Goods, etc. of the deceased Cristiane NcGrenane
spouse to James Neilsoune in Piemont in the parish of
Girvan, who died in the month of October 1626, given up
by the said James in behalf of John Neilsoune lawful son
to the defunct and Executor Dative to her.
Free Gear £48. 11. 4d.
Jonet NcKgrenane sister to the deceased is a creditor.
Confirmed 30 Augt. 1627. Robert Kennedy in Balla-
choill is cautioner.
39. Vol. 21, pt. 2. Testament Testamentary and
Inventory of the Goods, etc. which pertained to the de-
ceased Gilbert Neilsoun in Fuirdhons of Craigneill in the
22 GLASGOW FAMILIES
parish of Colmonell, who died in January 1628, given up
by himself as his Will proports.
Free Gear fio6
Alexander Neilsoun brother to the deceased is owing
in the sum of f 10.
In his Will, dated 21 January 1628, the deceased nom-
inates Janet McKevne his spouse, Gilbert, John, Bessie,
Agnes, and Jonet Neilsounes his only begotten bairnes
lawful his only Executors; and makes bequests to John
and Gilbert Neilsounes, and to James Neilsoun his broth-
er's son. Mention is made of Bessie Kennedy mother to
the said Gilbert; as also of John, Gilbert, and James
Neilsoun lawful bairnes to the deceased Alexr Neilsoun
sometime in Fuirdhous of Craigneill.
David MacRiwine in Craigneill is witness to the Lat-
ter Will.
Confirmed 2 Septr. 1628. John Macllvoat in Schalloch
is cautioner.
40. Vol. 21, pt. 2. Testament Dative and Inven-
tory of the Goods, etc., of the deceased Sara Neill spouse
to William Neilsoune elder, maltman, burgess of Glasgow,
who died in June 1628, given up by Mareoun Neilsoune
spouse to John Andersoune, cordiner, burgess of Glasgow,
lawful daughter, and Executrix Dative to her said de-
ceased mother.
Free Gear £1669
Mareoun Neilsoun spouse to John Anderson, cordiner,
burgess of Glasgow, is a creditor.
Confirmed 27 Dec. 1628. William Wilsoun younger,
merchant, burgess of Glasgow, is cautioner.
41. Vol. 23. Testament Testamentary and Inven-
tory of the Goods, etc. of the deceased Alexander Neil-
soun in Spittell of Ballach Maidane in the parish of Drum-
men, who died in April 1631, g^ven up by his own mouth
ABSTRACTS OF NELSON WILLS 2 3
as to the nomination of his Executrix etc., and partly
given up by Margaret Neilsoun his spouse.
Free Gear £922
The Will is dated at Spittell of Ballach Maidane 18
April 163 1, wherein the deceased nominates his spouse
foresaid as his only Executrix for the weill of William,
Walter, and Janet Neilsounes his bairnes with advice of
Patrick Neilsoune in Camoquhell, James Neilsoune her
brother there, and John Neilsoune in Kilfasset.
Confirmed 9 November 1631. James Neilsoune in Cam-
othell is cautioner.
42. Vol. 23. Testament Testamentary and Inven-
tory of the Goods, etc. of the deceased Agnes Dickie spouse
to James Neilsoune, cordiner, burgess of Irwen, who died
in July 1632, given up by herself as her Latter Will pro-
ports.
Free Gear £814. 4. 4d.
In her Will, dated at the Burgh of Irwen 1 1 July 1632,
the deceased nominates her said spouse together with
William Dickie in Bourtriehill and Robert Dickie in Gour-
shalloch her brothers german her Executors, and names
legacies to John, Jonet, and Elizabeth Neilsoun her chil-
dren.
Confirmed 14 August 1632. Hugh Montgomery in
Bowis is cautioner.
43. Vol. 24. Testament Testamentary and Inven-
tory of the Goods, etc. of the deceased Robert Neilsoune
portioner of Over Bordland in the parish of Dunlope, who
died in October 1631, given up by himself.
Free Gear £192. 11. 8d.
The deceased in his Will, dated at Over Bordland 17
Oct. 1 63 1, nominated Agnes Gemmill his spouse his only
Executrix, to whom he leaves his whole free gear.
Confirmed 9 April 1633. Archibald and David Neil-
24 GLASGOW FAMILIES
sounes, sons to Agnes Gemmill, relict and Executrix fore-
said, are cautioners.
44. Vol.24. Testament Dative and Inventory of the
Goods, Geir, etc. which pertained to the deceased John
Chirrie, mariner, burgess of Glasgow, who died in the
month of September 1634, given up by George Alexander,
merchant, burgess of Glasgow, Executor Dative quo cred-
itor decerned to him.
Amount of Inventory . . . £133. 6. 8d.
Confirmed 16 October 1634, John Campbell Notary in
Glasgow, cautioner.
45. Vol. 25. Testament Dative and Inventory of
the Goods, etc. of the deceased Issobell Neilsoune spouse
to Wm Reid in Mylnetoun, in the parish of Sanct Kavox,
who died in Deer. 1633, given up by the said William in
name of William Reid, Bessie, Margaret, and Mareoune
Reid, lawful bairnes, & Executors dative to their said de-
ceased mother.
No Free Gear.
Confirmed 5 Nov. 1635. John Hay burgess of Prest-
wick is cautioner.
46. Vol.25. Testament Dative and Inventory of the
Goods of the deceased William Neilsoune, merchant, bur-
gess of Glasgow, who died in January 1636, given up by
Marie Barclay his relict in behalf of James Neilsoune her
lawful son and Executor Dative decerned to the defunct
ID March 1636.
Free Gear £9
Confirmed 25 March 1636. John Selkrig, Notary in
Glasgow, cautioner.
47. Vol. 25. Testament Testamentary and Inven-
tory of the Goods, etc. of the deceased Jonet Neilsoune
spouse to James Sympsoune in Townheid, burgess of
Paisley, who died in Nov. 1636, given up by herself.
ABSTRACTS OF NELSON WILLS 2$
Free Gear £37. 6. 8d.
The Latter Will of the deceased is dated at Paisley 9
Nov. 1637, and contains the nomination of the said James
her spouse to be her only Executor, to whom she leaves
her part of the free Gear.
Confirmed 15 March 1637. John Andersoune, cowper
in Calsiesyd of Paisley, is cautioner.
48. Vol. 26. Testament Testamentary and Inven-
tory of the Goods, etc. of the deceased James Neilsoun,
cordiner, burgess of Irwen, who died in February 1642,
given up by himself on 3 Feb. 1642, in presence of John
Neilsoune writer of the Will.
Free Gear £1942. 18. lod.
The deceased in his Will, dated as above, nominates
John Neilsoun his eldest lawful son and apparent heir he
being on life, and failing of him by decease, Jonet Neilsoun
his lawful daughter only Executors to him; and names
legacies to John, Jonet and Elizabeth Neilsoun his lawful
bairnes.
Confirmed 16 August 1642. Robert Montgomery mer-
chant, and John Barclay tailor, burgesses of Irwen, are
cautioners.
49. Vol. 27. Testament Dative and Inventory of the
deceased Jonet Neilsoune in Erskyne in the parish thereof,
who died in the month of 1643, given up by Robert
Neilsoun her brother german and Executor Dative de-
cerned to her 10 Augt. 1643.
Amount of Inventory . . . £67. 13. 4d.
Confirmed 15 Augt. 1643. John Adam, servitor to the
Commissary of Glasgow, is cautioner.
50. Vol. 27. Testament Testamentary and Inven-
tory of the Goods, etc. of the deceased William Neilsoun
elder, maltman, burgess of Glasgow, who died in April
26 GLASGOW FAMILIES
1643, given partly by himself and partly by William Neil-
soun, present bailie of the said burgh, his lawful son.
Free Gear £2621. ..
The defunct was owing to Jonet Neilsoun for ferme &
dewty £12. ..
The Will dated at Glasgow 23rd April 1643, contains
the nomination of the said William his son to be his only
Executor; and also a legacy to "Margaret and Jonet Neil-
sounes daughters to the said William equally between
them 600 merks ; Item to Jonet Neilsoun his oy^ and doch-
ter to Walter N. 300 merks."
Confirmed 25 Janr. 1645. Walter Neilsoun, maltman,
burgess of Glasgow, is cautioner.
51. Vol. 27. Testament Testamentary and Inven-
tory of the Goods, etc. of the deceased Marie Barclay relict
of William Neilsoun burgess of Glasgow, who died in
January 1645, given up by herself, and partly given up
by George Montgomery of Brooomlands brother in law
to the defunct.
F. G £835. 4s.
Mareon Neil[soune] and Walter Neilsoun, maltman,
burgess of Glasgow, are entered as debtors to the deceased.
The Latter Will is dated at Glasgow 29 Nov. 1644,
wherein she nominates George Montgomrey foresaid her
only Executor, and makes bequests in favour of Issobell
Barclay her sister german : Item to Cowper daugh-
ter to the late Jean Barclay her sister german; Item to
Annas Barclay, her father's sister; Item to Mr. Gawin
Barclay, to Agnes Barclay, to Margaret Barclay, to Annas
Barclay, her brother and sisters german, and also to Will-
iam Barclay eldest lawful son to Robert Barclay of Peirs-
town her brother.
Confirmed 23 January 1645. Hew Montgomerie in Bal-
hous is cautioner.
I Granddaughter.
ABSTRACTS OF NELSON WILLS 2/
52. Vol.28. Testament Dative and Inventory of the
Goods, etc. of the deceased Bessie Mitchell spouse to John
Neilsoun, merchant, burgess of Ayr, who died in Septem-
ber 1647, given up by the said John in behalf of John and
Jonet Neilsounes their lawful bairnes & Executors Dative.
F-G. £742. 3. 4.
John Mitchell sailor in Ayr is a creditor.
Confirmed 28 January 1649, and Mathow McAlexander
merchant burgess of Ayr is cautioner.
53. Vol. 28. Testament — not execut — and Inven-
tory of the Goods, etc. of the deceased Lieutenant William
Scott, merchant, burgess of Glasgow, who died in the
month of March 1650, given up by the deceased Mareon
Neilsoun his relict only Executrix testamentar nominated
by him; and also of the Goods, etc. of the deceased Mar-
eon Neilsoun herself, who died in August 1651, given up
by James Merschell, merchant, burgess of Glasgow, son in
law to the said Mareon, & Executor dative to her quo ad
non executo decerned 21 Oct. 1651.
Free Gear £2214
Alexr. Scott brother german to the deceased Lieut. Wm.
Scott, and Walter Neilsoun, maltman, burgess of Glas-
gow, are mentioned as in possession of some of the Goods.
Confirmed 3 Deer. 1651. Robert Boyle, mert burgess
of Glasgow is cautioner.
54. Vol. 29. Testament Dative and Inventory of the
Goods, etc. of the deceased Stephane Neilsoune in the Bar-
ony of Glasgow (of Kirkpatricke), who died in Nov.
1646, given up by John Kirkland indweller in Glasgow,
son in law to the deceased, and Executor Dative to him.
Inventory and Debts .... £90. 6. 8d.
Confirmed 13 January 1657, David Pitcairne burgess of
Glasgow, cautioner.
28 GLASGOW FAMILIES
55. Vol. 29. Testament Testamentary and Inven-
tory of the Goods, etc. of the deceased Jonet Neilsoune
relict of George Cuik merchant, burgess of Glasgow, who
died in Feb. 1658, given up by herself, and partly given up
by James Cuik youngest lawful son to the defunct, & Ex-
ecutor dative to her.
Free Gear £466. 13. 4d.
The Will is dated at Glasgow 22 Feb. 1658, wherein
she nominates the said James Cuik her only Executor, and
leaves 100 merks to George Cuik her eldest son mercht. in
Danskin.
Confirmed 11 January 1658, William Donaldson, mert.
burgess of Glasgow, cautioner.
There is an Eik to the above Testament containing the
sum of £54., due to the deceased by James Woddrop of
Deldowie.
Confirmed 4 Janr. 1659. Robert Cuik merchant in Glas-
gow is cautioner.
56. Vol. 30. Testament Testamentary and Inven-
tory of the Goods, etc. of the deceased Laurence Neilsoun
merchant, burgess of Irving, in the burgh thereof, who
died in December 1661, given up by himself, and partly
by Margaret Cathcart his relict, and only Executrix to
him.
Free Gear ^5875. 12. 6d.
James Neilsoun in Stewartoun, John Neilsoun in
Dounepatrick and Alexr. Neilsoun in Irvin are debtors;
and Sara and Issobell Neilsoune, sisters to the defunct, are
entered as creditors.
The Will is dated at Irvin 28 Deer. 1661, wherein he
nominates the said Margaret C. his spouse to be his only
Executrix, and names legacies to John, Alexander and
Kathren Neilsoune, bairnes to Alexr. Neilsoun his broth-
er, and to Jean Cathcart his sister in law.
ABSTRACTS OF NELSON WILLS 29
Confirmed i Sept. 1662. James Fullertone mercht.
burgess of Irving is cautioner.
57. Vol. 30. Testament Testamentary and Inven-
tory of the Goods, etc. of the deceased David Neilsoun in
Gamhill in the parish of Newr Kilmarnock, who died 6
Septr. 1662, given up by Sir William Muir of Rowallane
as assigney to the defunct.
Free Gear £808. 4- 8d.
Confirmed 12 Deer. 1662. Robert Broune, Notary at
Stewartoun, is cautioner.
58. Vol.30. Testament Dative and Inventory of the
Goods, etc. which pertained to the deceased Jonet Neil-
soun, daughter lawful to the deceased Laurence Neilsoun,
merchant, burgess of Irving, who died in January 1663,
given up by Alexr. and Agnes Neilsoune, brother and sis-
ter lawful to the said Laurence, and by Thomas Gait in
Langdreghorne, husband to the said Agnes, executors da-
tive to her.
Amount of Inventory Left to her by her
Father £2171. 12. 8d.
Confirmed 11 March 1663. Simon Pittersgill, clothier
in Glasgow, is cautioner.
59. Vol.30. Testament Dative and Inventory of the
Goods, etc. of the deceased William Neilsoune elder late
bailie of Glasgow, who died in October 1662, given up by
Jonet Neilsone relict of Daniell Wallace, merchant in
Glasgow, only lawful daughter and Executrix dative to
the defunct decerned 26 March 1663.
Free Gear £2296. los. ..
Confirmed 2 June 1663. John Stirling merchant, bur-
gess of Glasgow, cautioner.
60. Vol.30. Testament Dative and Inventory of the
Goods, etc. of the deceased Margaret Neilsoun spouse to
30 GLASGOW FAMILIES
John Merschell merchant in Glasgow, who died in Deer.
1662, given up by the said John Executor dative to her.
No Free Gear.
Jonet Neilsoun reHct of Daniell Wallace is a creditor.
Confirmed 29 April 1664, Robert Couper, burgess of
Glasgow, cautioner.
61. Vol. 30. Testament Dative and Inventory of
the Goods, etc. of the deceased Wmphra Neilsoune in Eis-
ter Kilfasset in the parish of Balfron; and of Margaret
Schort his spouse, who died, the said Wmphra in the
month of Augpjst, and the said Margaret in November
thereafter 1664, g^ven up by Patrick Neilsoun son lawful
to the defunct, and Executor Dative to him decerned on
21 May 1664.
Free Gear £125
Confirmed July 1664. John Neilsoune in is cau-
tioner.
62. Vol.30. Testament Dative and Inventory of the
Goods, etc., of the deceased James Neilsoun younger at
Balglas Miln, in the parish of Killern, who died in June
1663, given up by George Neilsoune brother to the defunct
and John Neilsoun in Bent his brother in law. Executors
dative to him.
Free Gear £99
Mention is made of James Neilson the deceased's
Father.
Confirmed i July 1664. James Neilsoun in Balglas
Miln is cautioner.
63. Vol. 31. Testament Testamentary and Inven-
tory of the Goods, etc. of the deceased Andrew Neilsoun
in Balhomy, in the parish of Cammonell, who died in June
1664, given up by himself.
Free Gear £625. 16. 4d.
ABSTRACTS OF NELSON WILLS 31
The deceased's Will is dated at Bolhomie 30 June 1664,
wherein he nominates his spouse Marion Dowell to be his
only Executrix, and failing of her, his two sons John and
Andrew Neilsoune, equally betwixt them. The deceased
ordains his free goods to be divided among his four chil-
dren, namely, the said John and Andrew, and Marion and
Margaret his two daughters.
Confirmed 8 August 1664. John McClymont in Mayns
of Craignell is cautioner.
64. Vol. 31. Testament Testamentary and Inven-
tory of the Goods, etc. of the deceased Patrick Neilsoun
at Wodend of Kilfasset, in the parish of Balfron, who died
in Feb. 1665, given up by himself, and partly given up by
John Neilsoun younger in Bent and John Mclllhois in
Gairden.
Free Gear f553- 6s. ..
John Neilsoun younger in Bent is a debtor to the de-
funct.
In his will dated at Wodend of Kilfasset 6 Feb. 1665,
the deceased nominates the foresaid John Neilsoun and
John Mclllhois to be his Executors in name and behalf of
John, Margaret, and Elspeth Neilsoune, bairns procreat
betwixt the said Patrick Neilsoun and the deceased Jonet
Mclllhois his first spouse, and in behalf of Wmphray Neil-
soun only child procreat betwixt him and Marjorie Lome
his present spouse. He leaves to his said spouse that
House called the Chamber, last possessed by the late
Wmphra Neilsoun his father; and divides his estate
among his children above named.
Confirmed 13 May 1665. Thomas Mclllhois in Garden
is cautioner.
65. Vol. 31. Testament Dative and Inventory of the
Goods, etc. of the deceased Archibald Neilsoun in Auld-
hill in the parish of Dunlope, who died in April 1661,
32 GLASGOW FAMILIES
given up by John Neilsoun in Auldhill his son and Exec-
utor dative to him.
Free Gear £85. 16. 8d.
Confirmed 31 August 1665. James Cunninghame of
Aiket is cautioner.
66. Vol.32. Testament Dative and Inventory of the
Goods, etc. of the deceased Agnes Neilsone relict of John
Semple in Fulwood, in the parish of Killellane, who died
in February 1664, given up by John Semple son lawful
and Executor dative decerned to the defunct.
Free Gear £50. 6. 8d.
Confirmed 13 January 1666. John Semple in Birkin-
heid is cautioner.
67. Vol. 32. Testament Dative and Inventory of the
Goods, etc. of the deceased Jonet Neilsoun spouse to John
Fergusoune in Auchentiber in the parish of Stewartoun,
who died in Augt. 1665, given up by the said John F. in
behalf of Robert and Andrew their lawful bairnes, & Ex-
ecutors Dative to the defunct.
Free Gear £36
Confirmed 29 March 1666. Archibald Stirling in Clark-
land is cautioner.
68. Vol.33. Testament Dative and Inventory of the
Goods, etc. of the deceased Jonet McQuhirtour spouse to
John Neilsoune in Maynes of Killochen in the parish of
Dalye, who died in December 1665, given up by herself,
and partly given up by her said spouse.
Free Gear £81. 13. 4d.
In her Will, dated at Killochen 17 December 1665, the
deceased nominates the said John Neilsoune to be her only
Executor, to whom she leaves the equal half of the Free
Gear.
Confirmed 6 April 1666. John Neilsoun living in Bla-
chan is cautioner.
ABSTRACTS OF NELSON WILLS. 33
69. Vol.33. Testament Dative and Inventory of the
Goods, etc. of the deceased Walter Neilsoune of Balgray,
who died in April 1666, given up by William Neilsoun his
lawful son and Executor Dative decerned to him, on 7
Feb. 1677.
Free Gear £1363. 6. 8d.
Confirmed 1 1 April 1667. Wm. Stirling, writer in Glas-
gow, is cautioner.
70. Vol. 33. Testament Dative and Inventory of the
Goods, etc. of the deceased Jonet Neilsone relict of Andro
Stein in Corsbie, in the parish of Dundonald, who died in
May 1663, given up by John Hunter in Callellane, Execu-
tor dative decerned to her.
Amount of Inventory .... £23. 12s.
Confirmed 12 March 1668. John Osburne Notary in
Dundonald is cautioner.
71. Vol. 33. Testament Dative and Inventory of the
Goods, etc. of the deceased Jonet Broun spouse to Robert
Neilsone in Fulshaw, in the parish of Stewartone, who
died in February last by past, given up by the said Robert
Executor Dative to her.
Free Gear £7. 6. 8d.
Confirmed ro March 1668. James Wallace merchant in
Kilmarnock is cautioner.
72. Vol.34. Testament Dative and Inventory of the
Goods, etc. of the deceased Margaret Cunyngham, spouse
to Thomas Neilsoune in Cauldhame in the parish of Gir-
vane, who died in Deer. 1667, given up by the said Thom-
as, Executor Dative to her, decerned 6 March 1669.
Free Gear £34 .. ..
Confirmed 15 March 1669; cautioner is not named.
73. Vol. 35. Testament Dative and Inventory of the
Groods, etc. of the deceased Patrick Neilsoun in Camoqu-
34 GLASGOW FAMILIES.
hill in the Parish of Balfron, who died in April 1671, given
up by Mareon Edmont his relict, and Executrix Dative
decerned to him.
Free Gear £30
Confirmed on the 24th July 1671. Mr. James Buchanan,
Minister at Balfron, is cautioner.
74. Vol. 36. Testament Dative and Inventory of the
Goods, etc. of the deceased Bessie Ross spouse to James
Neilsoune, sailor in Saltcoats, in the parish of Ardrossan,
who died in Deer, last by past, given up by the said James
N., upgiver in behalf Grissell Neilsoun their lawful daugh-
ter 18 Janr. instant.
Free Gear £21. 2. 2d.
Confirmed 18 January 1673. Robert Brysone, mer-
chant, burgess of Irvine, is cautioner.
75. Vol. 36. Testament Dative and Inventory of the
Goods, etc. of the deceased Andrew Neilson in Cauld-
streame, in the parish of Evendaill, who died in Decem-
ber 1672, given up by Issobell Haddow his relict and Ex-
ecutrix Dative.
Free Gear £23. 13. 4d.
Confirmed 18 April 1673. Cautr. not named.
76. Vol. 37. Testament Testamentary and Inven-
tory of the Goods, etc. of the deceased Mr. Alexr. Neil-
soun of Maxwood, in the parish of Galstoun, who died in
the month of July 1670, given up by himself, as his Testa-
ment bears.
No Free Gear.
Mention is made of John and Hew Neilsoune, deceased,
sons to the defunct; also of Jonet eldest daughter to the
deceased, and Barbara, another daughter, both deceased.
In his Will dated at Burnhous 29 June 1670, the de-
ceased nominates Mr. Mathew Campbell of Waterhous
1381517
ABSTRACTS OF NELSON WILLS. 35
his only Executor, and appoints John and Hew Neilsoune,
his brothers, etc. to be Governors to George, James, and
Elizabeth Neilsoune, his children; and ordaines Alexr.
N. his apparent heir to pay 2000 merks to each of his chil-
dren above named.
Confirmed 9 Oct. 1674. Cautr. not named.
77. Vol. 38 Testament Dative and Inventory of the
Goods, etc. of the deceased James Neilsone in Fullshaw,
in the parish of Stewartoun, who died in Janr. 1669, given
up by Hellen Wyllie his relict and Executrix.
Amount of Inventory .... £30
Confirmed 17 Oct. 1676. Cautioner is not named.
78. Vol. 40. Testament Dative and Inventory of the
Goods, etc. of the deceased Agnes Neilsoune spouse to
Thomas Auchinlosse in Frieland in the parish of Inchin-
nan, who died in August 1678, given up by the said
Thomas Executor decerned to her.
Free Gear £218
Margaret Neilsoun is a creditor; and Alexr. Neilsoune
in Barngrie a debtor to the defunct.
Confirmed 26 Sept. 1678. Cautioner not named.
79. Vol.40. Testament Dative and Inventory of the
Goods, etc. of the deceased Thomas Neilsoune in Balglas,
in the parish of Killearn, who died in July 1676, given up
by William Neilsoune his brother german and Executor
to him.
Amount of Inventory .... £36
Confirmed 4 Feb. 1679. John Neilsoun, indweller in
Bent, is cautioner.
80. Vol.44. Testament Dative and Inventory of the
Goods, etc. of the deceased John and Hellen Neilsoun
spouses in Bent, in the parish of Balfron, who died, the
said John in Nov. 1685, and the said Hellen in March
30 GLASGOW FAMILIES.
1686, given up by John Neilsoun their lawful son and
Executor.
No Free Gear.
Confirmed 12 May 1686. Cautioner is not named.
81. Vol. 45. Testament Dative and Inventory of the
Goods, etc. of the late Mr. Alexr. Neilsoun of Maxwood
in the parish of Galstoun, who died in July 1670, given
up by Alexander Neilsoune his lawful son and Executor
decerned to him 12 May 1688.
Amount of Inventory . . . . £1,550. ..
John Neilsoun, merchant in Edinburgh, and Hew Neil-
soun, Apothecary there, his brother german, are due the
above sum by Bond.
Confirmed 23 Sept. 1691, and John Jamesone in Over
Newtoune alias fair John is cautioner.
82. Vol. 45. Testament Dative and Inventory of the
Goods, etc. of the deceased William Nilsoune, Barbour in
Glasgow, who died in the month of given up by
James Wotherspoon, writer in Glasgow, Executor qua
creditor to the deceased, decerned 5 April 1727.
Summa patet.
In the Inventory of Debts owing to the deceased men-
tion is made of the deceased Issobell Broun relict of Rob-
ert Nilsoun, writer in Edinburgh, brother german to the
deceased.
Confirmed 28 August 1727, and J. Jacksone tailor in
Glasgow is cautioner. [In the Bond the foresaid James
Wotherspoon is designed writer in "Edinburgh."]
83. Vol. 51. Testament Dative and Inventory of the
Goods, etc. of the deceased Issobell Neilsoun relict of
James Gilmour, flesher in Glasgow, who died in the month
of given up by James Neilsoune weaver in Glasgow,
nephew and Executor dative to the defunct.
Inventory and Debts . . . £221. 16. 4d.
ABSTRACTS OF NELSON WILLS. 37
Confirmed 22 Feb. 1732. John McLedoe, late Deacon
of the weavers in Glasgow, is cautioner.
84. Vol. 51. Testament Dative and Inventory of the
Goods, etc. of the deceased James Neilsoun in Glenshin-
noch, in the parish of Erskine, who died in March or April
1732, given up by James Hall, shipmaster in Greenock,
Executor Dative qua creditor decerned to the defunct 15
June 1732.
Summa patet.
Confirmed 31 January 1733. Robert Ewing, merchant
in Glasgow, is cautioner.
85. Vol. 52. Testament Dative and Inventory of the
Goods, etc. of the deceased William Neilsone, gardener in
Eglintone, in the parish of Kilwinning, who died in June
1737, given up by William Miller, merchant tailor in Ir-
vine, as lawful creditor and Executor Dative decerned to
the defunct, on 24 Deer. 1737.
Summa patet.
Confirmed 28 Deer. 1737. Robert Crawfurd, writer in
Irvine, is cautioner.
Genealogical Table of the Foregoing Wills.
Date
1B64 James Neilsoun, in Lytlll Fulwod
Names wife — Katherlne Symphill
Children— Cristin
Margaret
Jonet
Helen
Father— Robert
1610 Issobell Neilsoun, Craigtown, parish of Kilpatrlck
Names husband — Patrick Buchanan
Children— Patrick
Agnes
1612 John Neilsoun, Cubracane, parish of Kllerne
Names 1st wife — Kathrein Barholck
Children — Andros
John
Names 2d wife — Elizabeth Buchanan
Children— John
Janet
Kathrein
Agnes
38 TABLE OF GLASGOW-NELSON WILLS
1614 Issobell Neilsoun, Garroch, barony of Glasgow
Names husband— Willlani Mauchane
Children— John
Archibald
161B John Nellsoune, Over Gyneshlll, parish of Dunlope
Names wife — Jonet Dunlope
Children — John
Jonet
Margaret
Brother— Robert, of Bordland
Robert Jr. " his son
1617 Euphame Nellsoune, Glasgow
Names husband— Robert Calmeroune
Child— James
1617 Flnlay Nellsoune, Birkinheid. parish of Kllbarchane
Names wife — Elizabeth Clarke
Children — Alexander
Christiana
Margaret
Cautioner— Lyoune Nellsoune, In Southbar
1617 Patrick Nellsoune, In Blalrquosche, parish of Strablane
Names wife — Jonet Blair
Children— James
John ^ „
Debtors— James Neilsoun, Cannothell
Downie Neilsoun, CaJdstreade
Creditor— Elspeth Neilsoun,
1617 Mareon Armour, Glasgow
Names husband — James Nellsoune
Children— William
Jeane
Jonet
1618 John McClorkane, Craigmllne . ^ , ■,
Names wife Nellsoune. parish of Innertlg
Child— Crlstiane
1618 Margaret Neilsoun, Glasgow
Names husband — John Reid
Father— William Neilsoun, elder
Brother— James Neilsoun
James Neilsoun, son of Hew, tailor
Margaret, dau. of William, Jr.
Sisters— Mareon
Agnes
Witness— John Neilsoun. Glasgow
1620 Hew Neilsoun, tailor, burgess of Glasgow
Names wife— Margaret Smyth
Son — James
Cautioner— William Nelson, Jr., maltman
1622 Margaret Smyth. Glasgow
Names husband (dec'd)— Hew Neilsoun, tailor, Glasgow
r Cautioner— Wm. Nelson, Jr.. maltman
Exrs. -i Son — James Neilsoun
L Wm. Nelson. Sr.
1627 Jonet Bar, of Irwen
Names husband— John Neilsoun. notary, burgess of Irwen
Children— William
Alexander
Laurence
Agnes
Jonet
Jeane
Cautioner — James Neilsoun, cordlner. "
1627 CrUtlane McGrenane, Flemont. parish of Girvan
Names husband— James Nellsoune
Child- John
TABLE OF GLASGOW-NELSON WILLS
Names brother — Alexar
Wife — Janet McKevne
Children— Gilbert
John
Bessie
Agnes
Jonet
Also names — James, hla brother's son
Bessie Kennedy, mother of Gilbert
John
Gilbert
James
1628 William Nellsoune. elder, maltman, burgess of Glasgow
Names daughter— Mareoun Nellsoune, spouse to
John Andersoune, cordlner
Cautioner— Wm. Wllsoun, Jr. (?)
KJl Alexander Neilsoun, Splttell, of Ballach Maldane, parish of
Drummen
Names wife — Margaret Neilsoun
Children— William
Walter
Janet
Names also— Patrick Nellsoune in Camoquhell
James Nellsoune her brother there
John Nellsoune in Kilfasset
1«32 Agnei Dickie ,, ^
Names husband— James Neilsoun, cordiner, burgess of
Irwen
Children— John
Jonet
Elizabeth
1634 John Chlrrle, mariner, burgess of Glasgow
1636 Issobell Nellsoune ^ „ „
Names husband— Wm. Reld, Mylnetown, parish St. Kavox
Children— William
1636 William Nellsoune, merchant, burgess of Glasgow
Names wife — Marie Barclay
Children— James
1642 James Neilsoun, cordlner. burgess of
Writer of will— John Neilsou
Names children— John
1645 WlUlam Neilsoun, elder, maltman, burgess of Glasgow
Names son— William, present bailie of Glasgow
Creditor— Jonet Neilsoun
J^on'e?'''} <1^"^- °f ^""^'" (J--- ■'
Jonet, dau. of Walter Neilsoun
Cautioner— Walter Neilsoun. maltman, Glasgow
1646 Marie Barclay, relict of , „,
William Neilsoun, burgess of Glasgow
Debtors— Mareoun and
Walter Neilsoun, maltman, Glasgow
TABLE OF GLASGOW-NELSON WILLS
Bessie Mitchell, spouse to
John Neilsoun. merchant, burgess of Ayr
Names children — John
Jonet
Lieut. Wm. Scott, merchant, burgess of Glasgow
Names wife — Mareon Neilsoun
Son-in-law — James Merschell, Glasgow
Also names — Walter Neilsoun, maltman, Glasgow
1658 Jonet Neilsoune, relict of
Geo. Cuik, merchant, burgess of Glasgow
Names son — James
George, merchant in Danskin
1«62 Laurence Neilsoun, merchant, burgess of Irving
Names wife — Margaret Cathcart
Debtors — John Neilsoun in Downpatrick
Alex. Neilsoun in Irven
James Neilsoun in Stewartown
Sisters — Sara
Issobell
Nephews and {Alexander VCh. of his bro. Alex,
nieces (Kathren (
Sister-in-law — Jean Cathcart
1662 David Neilsoun, Gamhill, parish of New Kilmarnock
1663 Jonet Neilsoun
Names father — Lawrence Neilsoun, merchant burgess of Irving
Alexander Neilsoune I brother and sister of
Agnes Neilsoune ( Lawrence
Thomas Gait, husband of Agnes
1663 William Neilsoune, elder, late bailie of Glasgow
Names dau.— Jonet Neilsoune, relict of Daniel Wallace
1664 Margaret Neilsoun, spouse
1664 James Neilsoun, Jr., of Balglas Miin, parish of Killern
Names brother — George
Brother-in-law— John Neilsoun in Bent
Father — James
Cautioner— James Neilsoun, in Balglas Miln
1664 Andrew Neilsoun in Balhomy, in parish of Cammonell
Names wife — Marion Dowell
Children— John
Andrew
Marion
Margaret
1665 Patrick Neilsoun, at Wodend of Kilfasset,
Names debtor — John Neilsoun, Jr., In Bent
1st wife— Jonet Mclllhols
Children— John
Margaret
Elspeth
2d wife — Marjorle Lome
Children— Wmphray
Father — Wmphra
1665
1666
1666 Jonet Neilsoun. spouse to John Fergusoune, in Anchentiber, par-
ish of Stewartown
Names children — Robert
Andrew
TABLE OF GLASGOW-NELSON WILLS 4 1
1666 Jonet McQuhirtour, in Maynes of Killochen, parish of Dalye
Names husband — John Nellsoune
Cautioner— John Neilsoun living In Blachan
Bessie Ross, Saltcoats, parish Ardrossom
Names husband— James Nellsoune, sailor
Dau.— Grlssell
1673
1674 Alexr. Neilsoun of Maxwood. parish of Galstoun
Names children — John also — George
Hew James
Jonet Elizabeth
Barbara Alexr.
Brothers — John
Hew
1678 Agnes Nellsoune. Frieland. parish Inchinnan
Names husband — Thomas Auchinlosse
Creditor — Margaret Neilsoun
Debtor — Alexr. Nellsoune in Barngrle
1679 Thomas Nellsoune in Balglas, parish Killearn
Names brother-german — William Nellsoune
Cautioner— John Neilsoun, In Bent
1686 Hellen Neilsoun. Bent, parish of Balfron
Names husband — John Neilsoun
Son — John
1691 Alexr. Neilsoun, Maxwood, parish of Galstoun
Names son — Alexander
Creditors— John Neilsoun, mercht in Edinburgh
Hew Neilsoun, apothecary
his brother german
Nephew — James Nellsoune, weaver in Glasgow
1733 James Neilsoun, in Glenshlnnoch. parish of Ersklne
Extracts from Liber Protocollorum N. Cuthberti Simonis
Notarii Tublici et Scribae Capituli Glasguensis A. D.
1499-1513; also
Rental Book of Diocese of Glascow, A. D. 1509-1570
["Diocesan Registers of Glascow,"] London, ists.
FIRST— RENTAL BOOK OF THE DIOCESE OF
GLASGOW.
1510 xxij Januarii, Anno Domini, etc., Quingentes-
imo decimo Johannes Neylsone rentalizatur in v .y
X d terrarum de Crestisone, de consensu Mariote
Baird, ipsa gaudente ad vitam.* Pp. 44, 220.
1535 Die vltimo mensis Mercii, Anno Domini M° Quin-
gentesimo xxxv*° Jhon Anderson, son to Wilzam
Anderson, is rentalit in xv j land in Litil Gevand,
wacand be decessef of his fadyr; Mareon Neilson,
his modyr, broukand for her tym.:^ P- 106.
[152 1, May 18 — Jhon Anderson, zoungar,
rentalHt in vj s iii d land off Gwfane, be
consent off Walter Andersone.
15 10, May 6 — Rentalizatur Walterus Ander-
sone in xvij s vj d terrarum de Cristin-
sone, de consensu matris, matre gaudente
ad vitam.]
♦Ipsa gaudente at vitam— she enjoying for life.
+ Wacand be decesse— vacant by the decease.
Broukand for her tym— enjoying the use during her life or time.
NELSON TENANTS, GLASGOW, I535-I552 43
1 535 Die xiiij'° mensis Maii, anno quo supra, Jhon Gray
is rentalit in thre s. land in Crystown, be consent of
Jhon Neilson. P. io6. ^
[See first extract above— 1 510, January 22.]
1535 [Die xiiij'° mensis Novembris] Jhon Gray is rent-
alit in thretty fif penny land in Cristoun, be consent
of Jhon Neilsoun. P. 107.
1539 Die xj° mensis Junii, anno quo supra [1539],
Dauid Androson is rentalit in fif s. land in Litil
Govand, vacand be decesse of Wilzam Androson,
his fadyr; Mar eon Neilson, his modyr, brukand
for hir tym. P. 114.
[1525 [xxij° Maii] Wyl Andersone, alias
Lang Wylle, rentellit in fiff s. land off
Lytil Gwuane, be consent off Wylle
Gardnar.]
1552 [Vigesimo tertio mensis Marcii, anno Domini mil-
lesimo quingentesimo quinquagesimo secundo] is
rentallit Jhone Neilson in sax 5. viij penny land, ly-
and in the wester quarter of Chattilston, be the con-
sent of Thomas Selkryk and Jonat Braikanryg, his
mothyr, according to the contrak of vendition maid
betwyx the saidis pairtis, subscrivit be Schyr Dauid
Mackewne, notair, and als monist be the official of
Glasgo, in dait of the said contrak, the xv day of
December, anno Domini M° quingentesimo quin-
quagesimo, and of the monition the forsaid day and
dait the said Jhone Neilson producit ane dischairge
of the sowme promisit the saming. Pp. 140-41.
[1545 (Diexxvj"* Februarii) is rentalit Al-
exander Selkryg in sax j. viij d land in
the weist quartar of Scheddistoun, be
consent of Jhon Selkrig, his fadyr; the
44 NELSON TENANTS, GLASGOW, 1 553
said Jhon and Katrine Thomson, his wef,
broukand fourty d. for thar lyftym.
[15 1 5 (xx Decembris) Jhone Selkreg ren-
tellit in vj s viij d land off Chedilstoune.]
1553 [Decimo tertio Aprilis] is rentallit Wylzcm Neil-
son, sone to wmquhill* Jhonc Neihonc, in fif s.
land in to westyr quarter of Schetdylston, be the
consent of Elezebeth Andyrson and James Ritche,
hyr spows, for his entres; Marion Rytche, mothyr
to the said Jhonc Neilson, brwkand for hyr tym.
P- 145-
[1545 (xxij""" Marcii) is rentalit EHzabeth
Anderson, dochter to wmquhil Patrik
Anderson, in fif j. land of the thryd part
of Scheddilstoun, be decesse of vmquhil
Patrik, hyr fadyr, last possessour tharof .
P. 130.]
[1535 (Die xiiij^° mensis Nouembris) Jhon
Anderson is rentalit in ten s. land in the
fyrd part of Scheddilstoun, be consent of
Patrik Anderson, his fadyr, the said Pat-
rik broukand for his tym. P. 107.]
1 553 Vigesimo quarto Aprilis, Jhone Kennoch, sone to
Jhone Kennoch, is rentaillit in sax s. ij penny land
in Balschagrie, be the selling and consent of Rob-
ert Neilson. P. 145.
1553 Eodem die, Jhone Neylson, guidsone to James
Quhyt, is rentaillit in fyf s. v penny land in Neth-
irpossill, be consent of said James, quha wes last
rentaillit tharinto. P. 145.
[1537 (Die tercio mensis Aprilis, anno
•WmquhlU, umquhlle, umwhlle— once, at one time, formerly, late, de-
parted.
NELSON TENANTS, GLASGOW, I558-I565 45
Domini 1537°), James Quheyt is rentel-
lit in fif s. vj d. land in Nedder Possille,
be consent of Andro Sym. P. no.]
1558-9. Die xj^ mensis Februarii, is licens gevin to Eliz-
abeth Riche to mary Jhone Neilson, and to bruk
xvj s iiij d land in Nethir Carneden, nochtwyth-
standing our actis in the contrar. P. 172.
1565. The xxvj day of Appryle, 1565, Jhone Neilson is
rentellit in vj j viij d land in Scheddylston, be con-
cent and alienation of Thomas Selrig, last rentel-
lair thairof, et prestitus consensus. P. 184.
[See above — 1552, 23 March.]
SECOND— ABSTRACT OF PROTOCOL.
JAMES NEILSON, PROCTOR, I503-I512.
Note.— The following notices of James (Magister Jacobus) Neilson
Indicate that he was a lawyer of much prominence in the church courts,
1503-1512, his practice including cases civil and criminal, as well as those
of a purely ecclesiastical character. In many of the instances cited,
where he is mentioned as a witness, he was really a part of the court,
assenting to the transactions set forth. In England and America he
would be called a proctor of the court, instead of procurator. In the
work from which these memoranda are taken the documents are given
In full, in Latin, in \Aolume II.; an abstract in English is given In
Volume I. They are numbered, and for convenience of reference the
documents are here cited by numbers instead of by pages in the two
1503, Jan. 15. In the case of Nicholas Markbraer, alder-
man of Dumfries, against Sir William Heris, with
reference to the homicide of Sir John Markbraer,
46 JAMES NEILSON, PROCTOR, 1503-I506.
presbyter, the matter was referred, by consent of
Nicholas, to the Archbishop of Glasgow, but the
accusers not appearing, on motion of Mr. James
Neilson, procurator for the said Sir William, per-
petual silence was imposed on said Nicholas, and
others desirous of making the accusation. Nos. 58,
59. 60.
1503, Jan. 20. Procurator for David, Bishop of Argyle.
No. 62.
1504, March 12. Advocate of Sir Alexander Panter,
vicar of Castelstaris. No. 94.
1505, July 2. Witness to an interesting and important
transaction, in which an heiress of the Napier estate
consents to an entail on the male heir, by touching
with her right hand the hand of the lord official —
an ecclesiastical form borrowed from the Roman
law. No. 138.
1505, Feb. 23. Procurator of Mr. John Sanquhare. al-
leged vicar of Wallistoun. No. 150.
1506, May 2"]. Collated to the chaplaincy founded at St.
James's altar in the church of Glasgow; he being
presented to the archbishop by the president and
chapter, and collated by his grace placing on his
finger a ring, and committing to him the care and
management thereof. No. 165.
1506, June 10. Witness to a decree by the archbishop of
Glasgow, in a cause between Mr. John Sprewle and
Mr. Ninian Dalgliesh. No. 176.
1506, June 23. Procurator and advocate on behalf of
Marian Newtoun, relict of Robert Mwre of Row-
allane. No. 182.
JAMES NEILSON, PROCTOR, 1506-I51O. 47
1506, Feb. I. Witness to an instrument affecting the
Gordon, Glencairn and Lochinvar families, and
lands in Kirkcudbricht, etc. No. 200.
1 507, July 3 1 . Witness to an agreement relating to lands
of Schawtoun, infeft from John, Lord Symple. No.
257-
1507, Nov. 12. Advocate for Patrick Cockburn, and
procurator for Sir Alexander Cockburn, rector of
Scraling (now Skirling, a parish within the dean-
ery of Peebles), and of James and William Cock-
burn, farmers of the lands of Threpislak and
Sowthluke. No.'s 266 and 272.
1507, Sept. 18. Appointed one of the procurators of
Robert, archbishop of Glasgow, in the matter of
an application of the abbot of Paisley for certain
exemptions for his abbey and convent. No. 276.
1508, Nov. 9. Witness to the postulating of James Be-
toun, bishop of Candida casa, to the archbishopric
of Glasgow, and the protesting of Mr. Martin
Bede, chancellor of Glasgow. No. 288.
1509, April 17. Witness to the publication by the arch-
bishop of Glasgow, of a certain public edict or man-
date. No. 355.
1 5 10, March 25. Witness to an instrument of submis-
sion by Sir John Kichin, chaplain, for himself, and
John Knok for his son Uchred, to arbitration, re-
specting the wounding of said Sir John by said
Uchred, and the amend to be made therefor. No.
415-
1510, April 8. Advocate for Sir Adam Tumbule, pres-
byter, accused of having slain Robert Farescht, lay-
man. Nos. 422, 423, 458.
48 JAMES NEILSON, PROCTOR, 151O-I5II.
1 5 ID, May 13. Witness to certain most indecent and
disrespectful language by Mr. Andrew Birkmyre,
respecting Mr. Martin Rede, the chancellor and of-
ficial of Glasgow. Nos. 440, 442.
1 5 10, June 21. Witness to certain proceedings regarding
the homage of the archbishop of Glasgmv to the
archbishop of St. Andrews, primate of Scotland.
No.'s 468 and 469.
1510, July 31. Witness to an instrument on the judicial
confession by John Blair. No. 478.
1 5 10, Aug. 12. Witness to the renunciation by Creorge
Johnstoun, procurator for Agnes Johnston, his
daughter, of certain appeals from the see of Glas-
gow. No. 483.
1510, Sept. 2. Procurator for John Rig, in certain liti-
gation between Agnes Johnstoun, relict of Hugh
Rig, and the said John Rig, respecting the office of
executrix of said deceased Hugh Rig. No. 485.
1 5 10, Sept. 23. Witness to an instrument excusing Mr.
John Gibson, prebendary of Renfrew, for not ap-
pearing to answer certain charges, etc. No. 486.
1 5 10, Jan. 16. Witness to a narration respecting the
fining of Allan Leithame by Matthew, Earl of Len-
nox, provost of Glasgow, because he had appealed
from the civic tribunal to the church officials. "Be-
cause ilk juge suld put his awn sentence till execu-
tione." No. 503.
151 1, April 14. Witness to narration respecting the pun-
ishment of Sir John Wanles, for the cruel slaughter
of Adam Moscrop, scholar. No. 516.
15 1 1, April 26. Appointed one of the procurators of the
consistorial court of Glasgow. No. 519.
JAMES NEILSON, PROCTOR, 15 1 1-1513. 49
1 51 1, April 30. Witness to order of Mr. Martin Rede,
chancellor and official-general of Glasgow, etc., im-
posing perpetual silence upon the accusers of Mr.
Edward Creychton, presbyter, for art and part of
the slaughter of Alexander Fergusson and Robert
Fergusson, the accusers not having compeared be-
fore the spiritual court. No. 521.
151 1, July 9. Witness to the confession of Sir John
Leith, that he was present at the plundering of the
royal chapel of Dundonald. No. 539.
151 1, Aug. 9. Witness to narration concerning the case
of Mr. James Merchenstoun vs. Archibald Layng,
vicar of Eastwood. No. 542.
151 1, Aug. 31. Witness to renunciation by Cuthbert
Alexander, in consideration of 5 merks, of the con-
tract between him and Janet Hall, and dowry
promised him with her daughter, deceased. No.
549-
151 1, Sept. 20. Witness to warning given to Mr. David
Dwn, vicar-pensioner of Govan, to make personal
residence at said church. No. 554.
1 5 12, July 27. Appointed one of the procurators of Mr.
Richard Hucheson, vicar of Kirkbean, "with pow-
er under God to compear on his behalf before the
official of Glasgow." No. 585.
1513, Jan. 10. Witness to narration respecting Helen
Hannay, relict, and one of the executors of William
Smith, burgess of Glasgow. Done at the chamber
of said Mr. James Neilson, in the Drygate (Vico
sicco) of Glasgow. No. 586.
1 5 13, Dec. 19. Witness to accusation against Mr. Mat-
thew Steward, vicar of Maybole. No. 588.
50 JAMES NEILSON, VICAR OF CLONMELL.
1512, March 5. Witness to the presentation of a com-
mission by the archbishop of Glasgow for the inves-
tigation respecting certain teinds claimed by Mr.
Martin Rede, as chancellor of Glasgow and prebend
of Campsy. No. 608.
1512, March 14. Appointment as one of the procurators
of Mr. Martin Rede, chancellor of Glasgow, in re
Rede vs. Mr. Walter Abernethy, provost of Dum-
barton. No. 617.
15 13, July 2. Witness to acceptance by Mr. James Stew-
art of the perpetual vicarage of Dundonald. No.
646.
JAMES NEILSON, VICAR OF CLONMELL.
1507, April 27. Renunciation by Nicholas H'wme, eldest
son and heir of Thomas Hwme of Langschaw,
knight, before James Neilson, vicar of Colmonell,
commissary for the time of the officialate of Glas-
gow, sitting in judgment in the consistory court of
Glasgow. No's 225 and 226.
1507, May 26. Present as one of the chapter in the
Whitsunday chapter, on the occasion of the confirm-
ation of a charter to the prebendary of Renfrew.
No. 238.
1507, June 8. Witness to renunciation of Richard Blak
as executor of William Denby. No. 241.
1507, June 12. Witness to the admission of William
Elphinstoun to the office of under sacrist, vacant
by the death of William Denby. No. 242.
1 5 10, July 5. Assedation in feu-farm granted by Sir
Martin Rede, in favor of Mr. James Neilson, vicar
OTHER NELSONS, 1506-I5IO. 5 1
of Colmonell, of a tenement on the south side of
the Drygate of Glasgow, at an annual rent of 5
merks. No.'s 471 and 472.
151 1, Oct. 5. Present at narration of protest of Mr.
William Brown, vicar of the choir of Glasgow,
asking for remedy of law against Mr. Alexander
Inglis, treasurer of Glasgow. No. 557.
1511, March 15. Present at confession of John Fergus-
son of Cardaracht respecting the parish clerkship
of Glencairn. No. 568.
1512, April 21. Present at accusation of disgraceful and
licentious conduct of Sir James Falzour, a priest,
with complainant's daughter. No. 569.
OTHER NELSONS.
1506, July 9. Gilcrist Neilsone was a witness to an obli-
gation by Robert Creichtoun of Kirkpatrick, to pay
certain farm-duty and rents of the church in 1505.
No. 186.
1506, July 27. Mr. James Neilsone, commissary of the
official of Glasgow, warned certain farmers, under
pain of excommunication, respecting the payment
of their tithes to the church. No. 189.
1507, April 27. Mr. James Neilson, commissary for the
time of the officialate of Glasgow, sat in judgment
in the consistory of Glasgow, respecting the renun-
ciation by Nicholas Hwme, of all claim and title in
certain 6 merk lands of Cassiltoun. No. 226.
1 5 10, July 31. Mr. James Neilson, dean of Conigham,
gave warning in writing to certain persons not to
intromit in time to come with Sir Thomas Brown,
presbyter, who was excommunicated, by living or
eating with him, treating him as a friend, etc. No.
479-
"Extracts from The History of the Sufferings of the
Church of Scotland, from the Restauration to the
Revolution, etc., by Mr. Robert Wodrow, Minister of
the Gospel at Eastwood." Edinburgh, 1721, Vol. I.,
pp. 242, 257, 258-260.
1666 The Sufferings of one of those worthy Persons, John
Neilson of Corsack, in the Parish of Partan in Galloway,
and those of his Lady and Children, are so remarkable,
that they deserve a Room in this Collection; and I see
not where an Abstract of them can be more properly in-
sert than here. Mr. Dalgleish, the Curate of Partan, had
no small Hand in this Gentleman's Hardships. When
Sir James Turner came first into Galloway, Corsack was
soon delated by the Curate for Nonconformity, and Sir
James exacted an Hundred Pounds Scots from him, and,
contrary to Promise, he was sent Prisoner to Kirkcud-
bright. He suffered very much by Quarterings of Sol-
diers upon him; from the Beginning of March, to the End
of May that Year, he had Troopers lying on him, some-
times Ten, sometimes Six, sometimes Four at once, and
was forced to pay each Man Half a Crown a Day, which
came to Eight hundred and nineteen Pounds Scots, and
free Quarters besides to Man and Horse; which, mod-
erately computing at Fifteen Pence a Day, amounts to
Four hundred and eight Pounds, Ten Shillings. Next
Year, Sir James Turner sent Six Foot-soldiers to quarter
upon him, from March to the Middle of June. These had
each of them Twelve Pence a Day, besides free Quarters,
which amounts to Seven hundred and fifty six Pounds.
THE SUFFERINGS OF NEILSON OF CORSACK. 53
By those Hardships, Corsack was obliged to leave his
House, and wander up and down; and, upon his hiding,
he lost his Horse worth an Hundred Pounds, and was
seized himself, and imprisoned for some Time. The loss
of his Household-stuff, Victual, and most Part of his
Sheep, cannot be well reckoned. When they had turned
his Lady and Children to the Doors, they fell upon his
Tenants, and obliged them to bring them in Sheep, Lambs,
Meal, and Malt, till they were well nigh ruined. And last
of all, they drove all his Oxen and black Cattle to Glas-
gow, and sold them. And all this for nothing else but pre-
cise Nonconformity.
After all this Oppression, of which I have before me an
attested Account, the Reader can scarce wonder that he,
and many others in the like Circumstances, took hold on
the first Opportunity that offered to complain of, and re-
lieve themselves of those Calamities. When essaying this,
he is taken at Pentland, and, when a Prisoner in Edin-
burgh Tolbooth, Sir James Turner used his Interest to
get his Life spared, because Corsack, out of his truly
Christian Temper, saved Sir James, when some were seek-
ing to take his Life, both at Dumfries and afterwards,
though few had felt more of his Severity than this Gentle-
man; Mr. Dalgleish the Curate, getting Notice of it, ap-
plied himself to some of the Bishops, and acquainted them,
Corsack was a Ringleader to the Phanaticks in Galloway,
and if he were spared, he needed not think of continuing
in his Parish, and they might spare them all. This went
further than Sir James his Literest could go, and so he
was executed [with four others].
The Council being weary of disposing Heads and Arms,
order the Magistrates of Edinburgh to affix their Heads
on such Ports of the Town as they see fit, and bury their
Bodies in the usual Place
54 THE SUFFERINGS OF NEILSON OF CORSACK.
His Lady being in Edinburgh after her Husband's
Death, Maxwel of Miltoun came to the House of Corsack,
with Thirty Men, and took away every Thing that was
portable, and destroyed the rest, and turned the Family,
and a Nurse with a sucking Child, to the open Fields.
Some Time after, Sir William Bannantyne came and in-
ventared any Thing that was in the House, seized that
Year's Crop, and arrested the Rents in the Tenants Hands.
One of the Tenants, Arthur McGachie in Glenhead, with
his Wife and a young Child, were carried off Prisoners,
and kept some Weeks, merely because he had conversed
with his Master Corsack, before Pentland, a Day or Two
after he had been at Dumfries. The same Sir William,
a little after, came, and took Lodging with Thirty Horse
in Corsack, till the Lady gave him a Bond, with Two
Neighbor Gentlemen Cautioners, for Three Hundred
Merks. The Laird of Partan, a Papist, possest himself of
a part of Corsack's Lands contiguous to his in that Parish,
of about Eighty Pounds Scots yearly, and forced the Ten-
ant to pay One hundred and twenty Pounds of Rent, due
to Corsack before Pentland. A.nd further, by virtue of
the Forfeiture, the said Popish Gentleman defrauded the
Lady Corsack of a Bond he had given to her Husband, of
Four hundred and eight Merks Scots, and all the Interest.
The said Gentlewoman had all her Moveables seized, for
her Converse with her own Son, who had been intercom-
muned, and paid near an Hundred Pounds. In the Year
1680, her Son was forfeited, merely for Noncompearance;
and in a Year or Two, by Claverhouse's Troop, and others,
she lost and expended on vexatious Suits, upwards of Four
hundred Pounds. Her eldest Son, for Three Years, was
forced to wander and hide in Ireland. In the Year 1684.
she and her Second Son being cited to a Court for not
hearing the Curate, her Son was imprisoned for some
THE SUFFERINGS OF NEILSON OF CORSACK. 55
Months, and fined in Two hundred Merks : And still
forward, until the Liberty 1687. this excellent Gentle-
woman was vexed with Parties of Soldiers, and Compear-
ance before the Courts, which put her to great Trouble,
and much Charges. From these well vouched Accounts,
the Reader will have some View of the Hardships where-
with the Families of such who appeared at Pentland, were
distressed.
Before those Executions began, which I have put all
together : Upon the 4th of December, I find the Council
order Mr. Hugh M'Kail and John Neilson of Corsack, to
be tortured with the Boots, a Practice not used before in
Scotland, in the Memory of any now living; and I doubt
if it was often practiced since the Reformation. Now it
was brought in, and violently urged by the Prelates, and
afterward frequently used, as we shall hear. This, with
other inhumane and barbarous Tortures made Use of in
this Period, was justly complained of at the Revolution,
and abrogated.
What moved the Council to pitch upon those Two, I do
not know. Mr. M'Kail was a Youth of great Sense and
Learning, and Corsack a gentleman of excellent Parts,
and probably from them they expected vast Discoveries.
A Conspiracy was pretended, and they were to be exam-
ined by this Torture in Presence of the Council, and Inter-
rogatories formed to be put to them, which I have not
seen. But there was indeed no Plot to be found, and their
Rising was merely for Self-defence, and unconcerted.
Corsack was fearfully tormented, so that his Shreiks would
have melted any Body but those present, who still called
for the other Touch. Nothing was recorded, for all they
said was what they had candidly signified before, That
the Oppression of the Country had forced them to rise in
Arms, and being up, they were obliged in Self-defence to
stick together. The Sufferings of Mr. Hugh M'Kail are
56 THE SUFFERINGS OF NEILSON OF CORSACK.
SO singular, that though they are printed in Nephthali,*
yet being so proper for a History of this Nature, I would
willingly have insert them here were they not very prolix,
and therefore must refer my Reader thither, for a larger
Account of this singular Person.
Fines imposed by Middleton, in Parliament, 1662.
Wigtoun Shire — Gilbert Neilson of Catch cathie. .£1300
Kirkcudbright Shire — James Neilson of Ervie. . . . £360
Thomas Neilson of Knock-
whawock £240
— Wodrow's Church History, Vol. I., App. pp. 66, 68.
A proclamation was issued by the King, May 9, 1668,
against a large number of Rebels who had not accepted the
indemnity offered by him, October 9, 1667, and they were
ordered to be arrested, among them —
Andrew Haining, servant to John Neilson of Corsack
(Dairy Parish). — Wodrow, I., Appendix, p. 122.
"The Country-people who came to Dumfries, were com-
manded by Andrew Gray, and John Neilson of Corsack,
and by a Surprise apprehended Sir James Turner in his
Chamber in Bailie Finnie's." .... Ibid., p. 251.
On the trial of Col. James Wallace and others, on Au-
gust 15, 1667, for treason, in having marched against
Dumfries in the preceding November, and waged open
rebellion against the King, among other witnesses,
"John Neilson in Ramshead, aged Thirty six Years, or
thereby, married, sworn, depones. That he knows nothing
of their riding in Order, nor Blackstouns riding in the
Rear, that he saw none of the County-people, that Caldwel
and the rest of the Gentlemen never told them whether
1 Naphtali, or the WresHings of the Church of Scotland for the King-
dom of Christ, contained in a true and short Deduction thereof from
the Beginning of the Reformation of Religion, until the Year 1667.
Together with the last Speeches and Testimonies of some who have
died for the Truth since the Year 1660. Whereunto are also subjoined.
a Relation of the Sufferings and Death of Mr. Hew McKall, and some
Instances of the Sufterlngs of Galloway and Nlthisdale. 1667. 12mo.
THE SUFFERINGS OF NEILSON OF CORSACK. $7
they were going to the Southland Party; as to their being
at Chitterfleet, the rest of their Journey and Number, de-
pones conformis prae cedenti, and to the threatening of
Mr. Gabriel Maxwel, and depones that Quarreltoun went
all alongst with them." — Wodroiv, I., Appendix, p. io8.
