Forfar (Angus)

Records, sources & information about the Parish and Royal Burgh of Forfar

Parish number 288


map of Forfar

More maps of Forfar

Introduction
Bailies of Forfar
Births & baptisms
Books & articles
Burgh records
Census records
Church Session
Clock & watch tax
Craft records
Deaths & burials
Directories
Episcopal Church Records
Farm horse tax
Hearth tax
Heritors' records
Land owners
Libraries
Maps
Marriages
Marriage contracts
Ministers of the parish
Monumental inscriptions
Newspapers
Notaries' Protocol Books
Old parish registers
Parish Church
Photographs of places and people
Places of interest
Poor
Population statistics
Provosts of Forfar
Sheriff Court
Statistical Accounts
Testaments & wills
Town clerks
Town treasurers
Valuation rolls
War memorial
Window tax

Introduction

This page is for the parish and town of Forfar. The parishes of Forfar and Restenneth were united in the early 17th century.

For Forfar Archives see Angus Archives.

seal of Forfar

The Common Seal of the
Royal Burgh of Forfar

For general information on the whole county of Angus, sometimes referred to in the past as Forfar(shire) please also visit the page of general information applicable to all of Angus & Kincardineshire.

Abbreviations

NLSNational Library of Scotland
NRSNational Records of Scotland, formerly called the National Archives of Scotland [NAS] and, before that, the Scottish Record Office [SRO]
HM General Register House, Edinburgh EH1 3YY (Tel: +44-131-535-1314)
OPROld Parish Registers of Births/baptisms, Banns/marriages & Deaths/burials (pre-1855)

up

Books & articles

Photo-books - old photographs of Forfar

up

Statistical accounts of Forfar

up

Maps of Forfar

John Wood - Plan of the Town of Forfar from Actual Survey (Edinburgh, 1822).

The Reform Act plan of Forfar of 1832.

Town plan of Forfar in 1860-1.

1:25000 Ordnance Survey map - published 1957

1:10560 (Six inch) Ordnance Survey map - surveyed 1861, published 1865

For the full range of maps of Forfar in the National Library, see National Library's Maps.

Copies of the old Ordnance Survey plan of Forfar, dated 1901 & reduced from 25 inches to the mile to about 15 inches to the mile, can be bought from Alan Godfrey Maps. These are not coloured maps.

See also ScotlandsPlaces: Forfar.

map of Forfar

Above: modern street map of Forfar (© OpenStreetMap contributors, CC-BY-SA)
Click on the map above to go to OpenStreetMap centred on Forfar

up

Photographs of places

Geograph.org: Forfar - recent photographs of Forfar

Aerial photos of Forfar & neighbourhood

Geograph.org: Restenneth - recent photographs of Restenneth

Geograph.org: Balmashanner Hill

Balmashanner Hill War Memorial

ScotlandsPlaces: Forfar - recent & old photographs of Forfar; also maps, plans & other records

Photographs of places and people

Angus Archives has a Photographic collection

up

Forfar parish church

Located at National Grid ref. NO456506. The mediaeval kirk was dedicated to St James and belonged to Jedburgh Abbey.

Other churches

Lowson Memorial Church

Above: Lowson Memorial Church of Scotland

Further Photos of Lowson Memorial Church

up

Parish ministers 1560-1958

adm.: admitted, ass.: assistant, bapt.: baptised, contr.: contract, dem.: demitted, dep.: deposed, ind.: inducted, lic.: licensed, mar.: married, min.: minister, ord.: ordained, pres.: presented, rel.: related, res.: resigned, suc.: successor, test.: testament, tr.: translated

Robert Wood1563reader
David Lindsay of Pitairlie1563-1573min. 1563, and had charge of Restenneth and Aberlemno; tr. to Aberlemno bef. 1574
Ninian Clement1574-1576min. of St Vigeans 1564; tr. ca. 1574, and also had Restenneth, Kinnettles & Tannadice in his charge
James Rait1576-1589tr. from Lanark ca. 1576; tr. to Kinnettles ca. 1589
David Lindsay1590-1597M.A.; min. 1590, with Restenneth also in charge; adm. to 2nd charge St Andrews FIF 1597
Joshua Durie1596-1603M.A.; tr. from 2nd charge Montrose 1596; tr. to Logie Pert aft. 22 Mar 1603
Henry Fullarton1607-1618b. ca. 1566, son of David F., skipper, burgess of Dundee; M.A. St Andrews 1586; adm. 1607; d. bef. 17 Jun 1618; mar.; issue: Wm, min. of Rafford MOR
James Elliot1618-1637son of Andrew Elliot of Cuithley, burgess of Arbroath; M.A. St Andrews 1592; ord. to Oathlaw 1597; pres. 17 Jun 1618; D.D.; d. bef. 19 Jun 1637, aged ca. 65; mar. Eupham Lindsay, who survived him; issue: Andrew, min. of Inverkeilor; James, min. of Trinity College, Edinburgh; dau. (mar. James Ramsay, fiar of Ogil)
Thomas Pierson1637-1656b. ca. 1600, 2nd son of Thomas Pierson of Lochlands, bailie of Arbroath; M.A. St Andrews 1621; pres. 19 Jun 1637; d. Nov 1656; mar. Eliz., dau. of Robert Maule of Panmure; issue: only son, David, min. of Kilbarchan AYR, later St Brice's Kirkcaldy FIF
Alexander Robertson1658-1662M.A. Kinds Aberdeen 1653; adm. bef. 22 Aug 1658; dep. 11 Jun 1662
Thomas Small1663-1687b. ca. 1620, son of George Small of Foveran; M.A. St Andrews 1640; reader & schoolmaster Meigle PER; adm. (as ass. ?) to Lintrathen bef. 9 Aug 1650; tr. & adm. 28 Jan 1663; d. Apr 1687; mar. Susanna Ogilvie; issue: James, min. here
Francis Lyon1687said to be min. 1687
James Small of Quarrell-hill1687-1716b. ca. 1650, son of above Thos S.; M.A. St Andrews 1670; ord. to Cortachy bef. 5 Oct 1679; pres. 23 May 1687; driven out ca. 1716; d. aft. 17 Dec 1729; mar. (1) 1675 Margaret, 2nd dau. of Alexander Pierson of Balmadies; issue: Patk, Kath.; mar. (2) 1707 Christian Mitchellhill
Hugh Maxwell1717-1744M.A.; tr. from Tealing & adm. 21 Mar 1717; tr. to Strathmartine 27 Jun 1744
John Ker1745-1781b. ca. 1715 ROX; ord. to Kettins 1 Feb 1744; tr. & adm. 7 Mar 1745; D.D. & M.D. Kings Aberdeen 1761; d. 15 Dec 1781; mar. 1746 Agnes Burton
John Bruce1782-1817bapt. 24 Jul 1758 Pitsligo ABD, son of Andw B., min. of Brechin; M.A. Marischal 1776; tutor to Russell fam., Old Deer ABD; ass. here; ord. 24 Jul 1782; d. 19 Jan 1817; mar. 1785 Mary, dau. of David Fergusson, min. of Farnell; issue: Rebecca Mitchell; Janet; Andw; Mary; David; John, D.D., min. of St Andrew's Edinburgh; Margaret
William Clugston1817-1843b. 2 Jul 1793 Glasgow, eldest son of James C., tailor; M.A. Glasgow 1812; ord. 21 Aug 1817; joined Free Kirk 1843; min. of Forfar Free Kirk 1843-57; d. 3 Mar 1857; mar. 1818 Margaret, dau. of Geo. Gartly, muslin manuf.; issue: Margaret; James; Geo.; Wm; Janet; Alexr; Elspeth
Robert Stevenson1843-1877b. 7 Feb 1812 Campsie STI, 6th son of Wm S., farmer; M.A. Glasgow 1831; ord. (ass. & suc.) to Airdrie East LKS 2 Jun 1837; tr. & adm. 14 Sep 1843; d. 21 Mar 1877; mar. (1) 1844 Marion, yst dau. of David Scott, farmer, Northfield, Duddingston MLN; mar. (2) 1868 Agnes, dau. of Andw Barron, Halkerton; issue: Wm Barron, D.D., D.Litt., prof. of oriental languages, Glasgow; Marion Scott, missionary, Kenya; Robt Ferrie
David Mitchell1862-1866b. ca. 1835 Glasgow, son of John M., factor; ord. to St Luke's Glasgow 7 Oct 1858; tr. & adm. (ass. & suc.) 11 Apr 1862; dep. 22 Dec 1866; min. of Scots Church, New Jersey, USA; d. there 1905; mar. 1874
George Johnstone Caie1875-1911b. 18 Oct 1839 Chatham, New Brunswick, son of James C.; B.A. 1861; ord. to New St Stephen's, St John's, N.B. 6 Jun 1866; ass. here 1874; adm. (ass. & suc.) 2 Jul 1875; D.D. St Andrews 1899; d. 4 Oct 1911 Forfar; mar. (1) 1872 Annabell, dau. of Robt Hyndman, Pr. Edward Is.; issue: James Johnstone; Norman Macleod, min. of 1st charge Hamilton LKS; Annie Hyndman; Mary Richardson; Capt. Robt Geo., 5th Fusiliers; mar. (2) 1889 Margaret Matthew, dau. of John Myles, solicitor, Forfar; issue: Annie Whitson (mar. James Arthur Lees, Torquay); Ethel Margaret (mar. Robt S.L. Macpherson, C.A.); John Myles
William Galloway Donaldson1908-1934b. 17 Jun 1864 Cupar FIF, son of Ebenezer D.; ass. Ladhope, Galashiels SEL; ord. to Kelso North ROX 12 Mar 1891; tr. to St Paul's Leith MLN 23 Nov 1898; tr. & adm. (ass. & suc.) 1 Oct 1908; d. 25 Nov 1934 Forfar - in his pulpit; mar. 1892 Isabella Thomson, yst dau. of Robt Adam, Cupar
David Mathieson Bell1935-1958-?b. 11 May 1891 Cambuslang, son of David B.; from S. Woodside, Aberdeen; ind. 6 Jun 1935; d. 1 Nov 1978 Brechin; mar. 1922 Josephine Ramsay; issue: David M.

Other ministers of the established church

Ministers of St James's quoad sacra
St James's parish was disjoined from Forfar and erected quoad sacra 18 Mar 1872.

James Yeaman Strachan1836-1843b. ca. 1806, son of Wm S.; ord. 21 Oct 1833 as ass. to William Clugston, min. of Forfar; adm. here 20 Apr 1836; d. 1 oct 1843 unmar.
James Sommers1845-1851ord. 30 Jan 1845; tr. to Barry 18 Sep 1851
James Ireland1852-1857b. ca. 1823; ord. to Bourock Chapel (Barrhead) 26 Feb 1850; tr. & 15 Jun 1852; res. 11 Feb 1857; went to America
Alexander Campbell1857-1866b. 1830 Aberfeldy PER, son of Alexr C., grocer; missionary St David's Dundee; ass. St Clement's Dundee; ord. 25 Jun 1857; d. 25 Jan 1866 unmar.
John Weir1866-1909b. 25 Jan 1840 Rothesay BUT, 3rd son of John W., merchant; M.A. Glasgow 1858; ass. Hogganfield, Mount Stuart, Killearn and W. St Giles Edinburgh; ord. to St James's Chapel (i.e. here) 2 Aug 1866; 1st min. of this parish 3 Apr 1872; dem. 17 May 1909; d. 13 Mar 1925 Paisley; mar. 1868 Christina Scott, dau. of Adam Bell, merchant, Edinburgh; issue: Ada Bell; Mary McKinlay
William Adam1909-1916M.A., B.D.; ord 9 Sep 1909; tr. to Kirkpatrick Durham KKD 5 Oct 1916
James Aiken1917-1928b. 13 Jul 1866 Glasgow, son of Robt A., commodore, mercht navy; M.A. 1891; ass. Beath, Milton of Campsie, Dalziel; ord. 5 May 1904; adm. Berbice, Brit. Guiana 26 Jun 1904; tr. to Georgetown, Brit. Guiana 1 Dec 1914; adm. here 8 Feb 1917; tr. to Livingston WLN 14 Sep 1928; d. 1945 Livingston; mar. 1905 Matilda, dau. of Alexr McD. Thomson, colliery manager; had issue; entomologist
John Strachan1929-1933b. 31 Oct 1897 Dundee, son of John S., coachsmith; M.A. St Andrews 1925; ass. Clepington and Arbroath; ord. 28 Feb 1929; tr. to Collace PER 5 Oct 1933; tr. to Dores & Bona 1 Sep 1943; d. 19 Feb 1946 Inverness; mar. 1929 Agnes Laird, dau. of Wm Annan, Belfast

Ministers of Lowson Memorial quoad sacra
Lowson Memorial parish was disjoined from Forfar and erected quoad sacra 29 May 1914.

Peter Carmichael Millar1914-1920O.B.E., M.A., B.D.; ord. 17 Sep 1914; tr. to Balmerino FIF 14 Sep 1920
William Thomas Smellie1920-1925b. 7 Jun 1892 Barrhead, son of Robt James S.; M.A. Glasgow 1913; ass. N. Berwick ELN; ord. 17 Feb 1921; tr. to Rothesay BUT 7 Apr 1925; d. 1955 Cathcart; mar. 1921 Jean, dau. of Wm Craig, Paisley
John Kennedy1925-1928B.D.; ord. 15 Sep 1925; tr. to Old Kilpatrick DNB 19 dec 1928
William Hutchison Macdiarmid1929-1939b. 1880 Farningham, Kent, son of Andrew McD., engine fitter; formerly of Ballingry FIF; tr. from Stonefield 26 Jun 1929; d. 3 Nov 1939 Forfar; mar. 1915 Marion Barclay

Ministers of other denominations

Ministers of New Road Free Church, Forfar

William Clugston1843-1857see above list of ministers of parish kirk

Ministers of the West Free Church, West High Street, Forfar (St Margaret's or West Kirk)

Alexander Cumming?-1881-1909b. ca. 1823 Edinburgh; d. 9 Feb 1909 Forfar; mar. 1861 Mary Boyd; issue: Mary Boyd; James; Margaret Meldrum; Geo. Kay Boyd; Alexr, town clerk of Nairn; Annie Tower
Arthur John Gossip1901-1910M.A.; b. 20 Jan 1873 Partick, son of Robert G., journalist; ind. Dec 1901 as colleague & succ.; ind. Sep 1910 St Matthew's U.F. Church, Glasgow; d. 1954 Glasgow; mar. 1900 Janina H. Carslaw

Ministers of the East Free Church, Green Street, Forfar

Robert Ross?-1877-1881-?b. ca. 1840 Errol PER; mar. Susan Donaldson; issue: Peter M.; Margaret Gould; Geo. D.
George Mitchell Philps?-1884-1898b. ca. 1853 Airdrie; tr. to Union Free Church, Glasgow 1898; d. 1917 Glasgow; mar. 1877 Rachel Parker; issue: Geo. Pixton, Wm P., Robert, Andrew C., James M.
----
Andrew H. Anderson1927-?from Auchtermuchty

Ministers of Forfar (Antiburgher), later South United Free Church

John Jamieson1780-1797M.A.; b. ca. 1759, son of the Rev. John J., Glasgow; ord. 23 Aug 1780; D.D. 1791 Princeton; tr. to Edinburgh 2 May 1797; author of "Dictionary of the Scottish Language"
Andrew Aedie (Adie)1798-1838prob. b. 24 Sep 1772 Pathstruie, Forgandenny PER, son of John A.; ord. 9 Oct 1798; d. 8 Jul 1838 Alloa CLK
Andrew Murray1839-1857b. ca. 1815 Barry, son of the Rev. John M., Carnoustie; nephew of the above Andrew Adie; ord. 8 Oct 1839; res. 6 Jun 1857; missionary Anderston, Glasgow; farmer in Angus; patient, Lunatic Asylum, Edinburgh 1881; d. 16 Feb 1890 Edinburgh; mar. 1840 Eliz. Nash; issue: Eliz. Nash
Hugh Lang Niven1859-1862b. 16 Feb 1831 S. Knapdale ARL, 7th son of Laurence N., ag. lab.; from Glasgow (Greyfriars); ord. 24 Feb 1859; disappeared 8/9 Jul 1862; dep. 6 Jan 1863; editor of Shanghai Evening Courier, 1868-1875; d. 20 Jan 1875 Shanghai; mar. (1860 in London but also 1861 Livingston WLN & Forfar) Anne Reid (who d. 30 Dec 1912 Edinburgh)
Peter Stirling Wright1863-1895b. ca. 1831 Kilmarnock AYR; from Kilmarnock (King Street); ord. 20 Oct 1863; min.-emeritus 25 Jun 1895; d. 18 Apr 1899 Forfar; mar. 1872 Eliz. Whyte Roberts
Alexander Grieve1896-1901-?b. 9 Nov 1866 Smailholm ROX, son of Margt G., & gson of Robt G., road contractor; M.A.(Edin.); studied at Berlin, Leyden & Marburg; D.Phil.(Lips.); from Millport BUT; ord. 28 Jan 1896; translator of Deissmann's Neue Bibelstudien; later at Greyfriars U.F. Kirk, Pollokshields; mar. 1896 Euphemia L. Ross; issue: Brünnhilde M.; Eliz. W.

Ministers of St John's Episcopal Church, Forfar

John Skinner1797-1841A.M.; b. 20 Aug 1769, son of John S., bishop of Aberdeen; dean of Dunkeld; d. 2 Sep 1841; mar. 1798 Eliz., dau. of John Ure, provost here; issue: Margt; John; Mary R.; Geo. U.; Wm; Chas B.; Ann S.; Alexr; James
William Taylor?-1851-?b. ca. 1793 Montrose
William George Shaw?-1861-1874b. 1825/26 Edinburgh, son of Wm S., cashier N. Brit. Rwy; d. 24 Oct 1874 Forfar; mar. (1) 1854 Maria Elizabeth Molyneux, eldest dau. of Wm Nelson Clarke D.C.L.(Oxon.); issue: Kath. M.; Wm S. C.; Chas K. S.; Dorothea M. C.; mar. (2) 1872 Margaret R. Whyte; author of "Memorials of the Clan Shaw"
Vincent Lewis Rorison?-1881-1885M.A., D.D.; b. 1849/50 Peterhead, son of Gilbert R., D.D.; provost, St Ninian's Cath., Perth 1885; dean of St Andrews 1901; d. 27 Aug 1910 Perth; mar. 1877 Edith A.S. Stephenson; issue: Harry G.G., Wm G., Edith A., Emma R.
John Mullings Aldridge?-1891-?b. ca. 1843 Devizes, Wiltshire; in Ireland by 1901; mar. Mary D. --; issue: Gerald

Ministers of the Congregational Church in Forfar

William Lowe?-1841-?b. ca. 1800 Scotland; mar.; issue: Cath.; Margt; Barbara; James; John

See also Congregational ministers in Forfar.

Photograph of the Congregational Church, Forfar.

up

Monumental inscriptions

Monuments in Forfar Parish Kirkyard (ca. 210 stones), Forfar Cemetery (ca. 210 stones), St John's Episcopal Kirkyard (at NO457506) (ca. 30 stones) and at the ruined priory of Restenneth (7 stones) bearing pre-1855 information are listed in Alison Mitchell (ed.), "Pre-1855 Monumental Inscriptions in Angus, Vol. 1: Strathmore" (Edinburgh: Scottish Genealogy Soc., 1993), which can be bought from the Scottish Genealogy Society. (It's listed as "Angus MI - Vol. 1. Pre-1855 Strathmore" in their online shop.)

The following inscriptions are in the ruins of Restenneth Priory:

[M1; flat stone in middle of chancel, recent but worn] Memorialis [sic] the HUNTERs of Restenneth Burnside Dod from 16th century onwards

[M4; p1390; against north wall of chancel] In memory of Dame KATHARINE DEMPSTER METCALFE widow of Sir THEOPHILUS JOHN METCALFE, baronet, born 19th December 1830 died 7th December 1911.
[i.e. Katharine Hawkins Dempster, dau. of John Whitshed Hawkins, yr of Dunnichen. She married Metcalfe at Dunnichen in Aug 1876.]

[in pediment above a lost mural] 18(03)

and this mediaeval slab affixed to the inside of the tower [M5]:

Monument at Restenneth Priory

up

Forfar War Memorial on Balmashanner Hill and Forfar & District Roll of Honour 1914-1919

The Scottish Military Research Group - Commemorations Project - Balmashanner

up

Births, Marriages & Deaths, 1855 to present

Indexes and actual records for Statutory Registers of Births, Marriages & Deaths, beginning 1 Jan 1855, are available online, following registration and the purchase of credits, at the official web-site, ScotlandsPeople.

Additionally, in the National Records:

Births, Marriages & Deaths, before 1855

Indexes and actual records for all extant Old Parish Registers (OPRs) (pre-1855) of the Established Church of Scotland are available online, following registration and the purchase of credits, at the official web-site, ScotlandsPeople.

up

Marriage contracts

DateTypePartiesNRS ref.
26 Apr 1724antenuptialAndrew Binny, eldest son of Alexander Binny of Whitewall, provost of Forfar
&
Elizabeth Whyte [White], daughter of Charles Whyte, merchant in Dundee
GD243/15/9

up

Church Session Records of Forfar parish kirk

Not in NRS; the records appear still to be held in the Kirk, as they certainly were in 2000

Church Session Records of St James's quoad sacra parish

Nature of recordDatesNRS ref. CH2/1511/...
Minutes1836-19511 to 4
do1973-19775
Congregational board minutes1969-19775
Managers' minutes1830-18726 to 8
Enclosures from vol. 81850-18729
Managers' minutes1872-193810
Enclosures from vol. 101872-193811
Congregational board minutes1938-196912
Enclosure from vol. 121938-196913
Parochial chapel cash book1829-185214
Baptisms1857-187915
do1899-191516
do1916-193717
do1937-196618
Proclamations1875-188219
do1882-190020
do1901-193221
do1942-195822
Communion rolls1863-188923 to 26
do1910-196827 to 34
Accounts1852-192035
do1920-193436
do1935-194637
do1963-197338
Financial statement197339
St James's church magazine1930-193740
The James's Gazette1946-196041
St James's News1961-197642
Women's Guild syllabus1899-190043
Women's Guild minutes1892-196743 to 49
Enclosure from vol. 49196450
Women's Guild minutes1964-197751
Statement of accounts1971-197352
Women's Guild business & AGM minutes1869-197753
Women's Guild cash books1892-195954 to 57
Women's Guild roll books1951-196658 to 61

Church Session Records of Forfar East Free Kirk

Nature of recordDatesNRS ref. CH3/493/...
Minutes1845-18571
Financial statements1867-18791
Minutes1856-18862

up

Forfar Heritors' records

Nature of recordDatesNRS ref. HR415/...
Minute book (with accounts)1870-19101
do1910-19302
Papers re ecclesiastical buildings, etc. (church, manse, school, churchyard)1717-19303
Papers re transference of property to Church of Scotland General Trustees1925-19304

up

Land owners

There were 10 proprietors of land in the parish in 1843:

up

Episcopal Church Records

Index of Episcopal baptisms, 1754-1823 [Angus Archives - in Search room]

up

Poor

Information, maps & photographs of Forfar Combination Poorhouse.

up

Census records

Records of the official censuses of the parish in 1841, 1851, 1861, 1871, 1881, 1891, 1901, 1911 and 1921 are held in Register House, Edinburgh and are open to the public on payment of a fee.

Indexes to all the original census records, and the records themselves, can be accessed online at modest charge at ScotlandsPeople.

Microfilm copies are also widely available in libraries. The 1881 census is available on CD-ROM.

The early censuses of 1801-31 do not name individuals.

up

Population statistics

Yearmalefemaletotalref.
1755Dr Alexander Webster
17904756Old Statistical Account
18005165
18115562
1821278431135897
18317549
18419587*
185111009
18715581700412585
18816505796514470

* of whom, 7969 were in the parliamentary burgh

After change of parish boundary:

Yearmalefemaletotal
18916027763813665
19015639724012879
19115386686812254
19214784622411008

up

Street and trade directories

Some directories for the town of Forfar are available online. These include lists of farmers and some others in neighbouring parishes.

up

Testaments & wills

Forfar was in the Commissariot of St Andrews.

Indexes to all extant pre-1926 testamentary records (wills & inventories of moveable property) can be searched free of charge at ScotlandsPeople. Digital (and paper) copies of the documents can be purchased at that site. See further the introduction to Angus & Kincardineshire at Testaments.

Testaments of Forfar people from the Register of Testaments of the Commissariot of St Andrews, 1549-1823

Alexander Adammason, burges of Forfar4 Jan 1699
Thomas Adammaltman in Forfar22 May 1746
Thomas Adammason in Forfar25 Feb 1748
William Adamcotterman in Corsburne, par. of Forfar12 Jan 1616
Elizabeth Adamsonres. at the west town end of Forfar27 Dec 1823
Robert Adamsoncarrier in Forfar, sp. of Janet Mands4 Oct 1820
James Aitken, fewer in Boghallin the ground of Forfar19 May 1784
Andrew Anderson, elderskinner, burges of Forfar13 Jun 1628
Archibald Andersonburges of Forfar7 Jan 1614
Catharine Andersonspouse to William Guthrie, maltman, burges of Forfar28 Jan 1629
James Andersonwright in Dowhill-miln, Forfar2 Apr 1795
Elizabeth Auchinleckrelict of John Gray, of Lour, par. of Forfar10 Feb 1617
George Auldburges of Forfar19 Jun 1617
Elspeth Balfourspouse to Andrew Halkney, in Cottoun of Meikle Lour, par. of Forfar6 Aug 1692
John Barrymanufacturer, Forfar12 Jun 1806
Robert Bean in Cotton of Tullose, Forfar14 Apr 1777
Isobel Belliespouse to James Dickson, in Forfar17 Feb 1621
William Belliecordiner in Forfar, and Janet Monteath, his spouse18 Aug 1649
James Bennycordiner, burges of Forfar19 Jul 1628
James Benny, eldercordiner, burges of Forfar29 Oct 1674
John Benry, eldercordiner, burges of Forfar29 May 1650
Andrew Binnytown-clerk in Forfar1 Dec 1769
Isobel Binnyres. in Forfar, rel. of John Webster, merchant & s.t. bailie in Forfar2 Feb 1820
Janet Binnyres. in Forfar16 Jan 1809
Jean Binnyrel. of Thomas Hunter, wright in Forfar9 Jul 1752
Mrs Margaret Binnyres. in Forfar, rel. of William Hunter, merchant in Forfar17 Sep 1817
William Boathweaver in Forfar29 Mar 1823
Mrs Mary Bowerdau. of dec. William Bower of Kinnettles & sp. of John Ritchie, Esq., res. in Forfar7 Dec 1809
Helen Brandonsp. to John Boutcher, in Waltoun, par. of Forfar22 Oct 1683
Margaret Brandonsp. to David Watt, weaver in Forfar12 Oct 1681
James Brown of Pitruchiepar. of Forfar23 Oct 1683
Rev. John Brucemin. of the gospel at Forfar17 Jun & 3 Jul 1817
Janet Buchansp. to Andrew Symson, in West Dod, par. of Forfar26 Oct 1685
Alexander Burrhosier in Forfar2 & 3 Aug 1820
John Butchartmerchant in Forfar28 May 1770
John Cadgerflax dresser in Forfar5 & 7 Jan 1822
John Cairdweaver in Forfar19 Apr 1813
Mrs Margaret Campbellwid. of John Ure, sheriff clerk, Forfar1 Aug 1812
Thomas Cardeantenant in Easter Denoon, Forfar29 Apr 1771
Alexander Carnegiein Forfar18 Aug 1649
Alexander Carnegiesherrif-depute of Angus, par. of Forfar23 Nov 1693
James Carnegies.t. sheriff-depute of Forfar11 Feb 1682
Patrick Carnegy of Lower, Esq.11 Jul 1820
David Cautywriter and sometime bailie of Forfar22 Jun 1748
James Constablemanufacturer in Forfar14 Aug 1823
John Cook, youngerin Forfar24 oct 1683
James Coultieburges of Forfar8 Nov 1649
David Coushnyin Caldhame, par. of Forfar20 Jul 1720
Andrew Coutielate bailie of Forfar25 Oct 1683
William Coutiemaltman in Forfar25 Oct 1687
William Couttsmerchant in Forfar12 Jan 1709 and 25 Jul and 17 Nov 1710
John Craigsometime merchant, burges of Forfar13 Aug 1718
David Craikin Toquheitoune, par. of Forfar7 Apr 1615
James Crombcotterman in Carsburne, par. of Forfar12 Jan 1616
Bessie Cunninghamsometime spouse to umquhile Walter Thorntoun, in Forfar14 Jan 1600
Eupham Cuthbertspouse to John Symson, in Wester Dod, par. of Forfar24 Oct 1683
James Cuthbertmanufacturer in Forfar, sp. of Agnes Kerr4 Jul 1816
John Cuthbertmerchant in Forfar1 Nov 1682
William Cuthbertlate bailie of Forfar1 May and 28 Jun 1695
William Cuthbertshoemaker in Forfar14 Jun 1704
William Cuthbertlate bailie in Forfar16 Jun 1720 and 8 Feb 1721
James Dalgetyresidenter in Forfar9 & 16 Jun 1815
James Dargiepensioner of Kilmanham Hospital, s.t. of 1st Foot, res. in Forfar18 Jun 1819
John Davidsonlate officer of excise at Forfar13 Feb 1751 and 18 Mar 1752
John Dicksoncordiner in Forfar23 Oct 1685
John Dicksonmason & quarrier in Forfar, proprietor of Slatefield23 Sep 1806
John Dogin Myresyde, par. of Forfar7 May 1638
David Donresidenter in Forfar28 Feb 1771
David Donwriter in Forfar & partner of John Don & Co., brewers at Bankhead, Forfar31 May & 8 Jun 1820
William Donmerchant in Forfar3 (& 20?) Jun 1818
William Donaldsurgeon, R.N., res. in Forfar24 Jul 1817
William Dow[?] (Don?)merchant in Forfar [see Wm Don above]20 Jun 1818
Elspet Duncanspouse to Andrew Millar, boatman in Sie-mylnes, par. of Forfar23 Aug 1621
Alexander Estonweaver in Forfar6 Jul 1813
John Falconer of Balmashanerpar. of Forfar18 Aug 1703
John Falconer of BahnashannerForfar4 Dec 1723
James Findaleshoemaker in Forfar29 Sep 1796
John Fedburges of Forfar6 May 1641
Mr George Forresterin Muirsyde of Lour, par. of Forfar3 and 8 Apr 1629
Margaret Fowlerspouse to David Robertson, in Forfar14 Nov 1684
Margaret Fyfespouse to Andrew Hill, in Denmyln, Forfar18 Oct 1687
Christene Gellatlierelict of David Ogilvy, of Tempilhall, par. of Forfar23 Dec 1595
Miss Isabella Grayres. in Forfar, dau. of dec. Mr Charles Gray, merchant in Forfar14 Nov 1815
Michaell Gray of Trufbegpar. of Forfar11 Jul 1684
Mr David Guthrie, late of Carsbanickpar. of Forfar6 Jun 17l6
Isobel Guthrielawful daughter of the deceased Mr David Guthrie of Carsbank, par. of Forfar[6 Dec 1727] 16 Dec 1754
Jedson Guthrie of Blabirhillpar. of Forfar14 Oct 1614
William Guthriemaltman, burges of Forfar18 Aug 1649
Helen Haggartres. in Forfar, wid. of Thomas Reid, brewer there13 Jan 1821
James Hamilton of Kirktounpar. of Forfar17 May 1650
James Hantonin Knows of Glenprosen, par. of Forfar3 Aug 1720
Alexander Heattounin Newmuir, par. of Forfar4 Apr 1683
Margaret Hendersonspouse to Wilham Barrie, par. of Forfar27 May 1614
James Hendryres. on the Manor, par. of Forfar26 Jun 1823
Mr Charles Hillres. in Forfar28 May 1821
Andrew Howin Hill-end of Dod, par. of Forfar16 Apr 1712
Janet Hoyspouse to David Gibsone, merchant, burges of Forfar13 Jun 1628
Andrew Hunterprovost of Forfar25 Jan 1639
Bessie Hunterspouse to Patrick Beny, burges of Forfar29 Apr 1620
Bessie Hunterlawful daughter to umquhile William Hunter, skinner, burges of Forfar12 Nov 1640
David Hunter, eldersometime provost of Forfar27 Mar 1616
David Hunter of Restenet28 Aug 1685
George Hunterburges of Forfar27 Mar 1616
George Hunterlawful son to Andrew Hunter, provost of Forfar, and Euphame Benie, his spouse21 Jan 1629
James Hunterburges of Forfar18 Feb 1597-8
James Hunterbutcher & brewer in Forfar6 Sep 1819
Janet Hunterspouse to Patrick Suttie, burges of Forfar6 Apr 1618
Margaret Hunterspouse to George Bellie, burges of Forfar2 Jan 1618
William Huntermerchant in Forfar16 Oct 1794
Patrick Hutcheonbrabonar in Cottoun-Lowre, par. of Forfar9 Mar 1607
Jean Irelandres. in Forfar, wid. of James Wallace, tenant at Birkenbush16 Apr 1813
Magdalen Jaffraylawful daughter of the deceased Alexander Jaffray, sometime provost of Forfar, par. of Forfar17 Oct 1775 and 4 May 1776
Elizabeth Johnstonespouse to David Whytt, younger, shoemaker in Forfar9 Dec 1713
Thomas Kerrlate carpenter of his Majesty's ship the "Southampton" and lately residenter in Forfar29 May 1794
Isobel Kinninmonth or Lowrieindweller in Forfar7 Aug 1662
Andrew Lambin Langbank, par. of Forfar31 Jul 1619
John Langlandslitster, burges of Forfar22 Oct 1683
Isobel Leucharsspouse to David Ker, in Westfield, par. of Forfar28 Oct 1674
William Lindsayin Muirtoun muir, par. of Forfar18 Jul 1617
William Lockieburges of Forfar18 Aug 1649
Isobel Lowrie alias Kinnynmonthindweller in Forfar7 Aug 1662
John Lowsonweaver in Forfar, formerly in Newmuir of Lower19 Apr 1816
James Machirresiding in Forfar8 May 1810
Patrick Mackieat Lockhead, par. of Forfar12 Jul 1820
David Mann juniormerchant in Forfar15 May 1815
John Mannmerchant, Forfar3 Jul 1809
Mr John Mannwriter in Forfar17 Feb 1819
John Mathewin Balmuir, Forfar9 Jun 1697
John Mathieson to umquhile John Mathie, sometime in Barrilwell of Forfar26 Oct 1685
Mary Mathiespouse to George Wood, burges of Forfar12 Oct 1681
David Millin Auchterforfer, par. of Forfar26 Oct 1685
John Millresidenter in Forfar, late in the Ground of Melgund, sp. of Janet Binny20 Dec 1823
Robert Millcorporal, 94th Foot, res. in Forfar20 Nov 1817
Thomas Mitchelllate minister at Aberlemno, par. of Forfar2 Dec 1755
John Milnein Forfar12 May 1800
Richard Morganmaltman, burges of Forfar28 Jul 1637
Ann Morriceres. in Forfar, wid. of dec. James Machir in Forfar25 Mar 1814
John Mudiesometime workman in Forfar28 Jun 1717
James Neavemerchant, tailor in Forfar21 Jun 1809, 17 & 28 Feb 1810, 7 Nov 1812
John Neish of Newford Parknear Forfar26 Feb 1820
John Nicolemanufacturer, Forfar1 Oct 1801
Marorie Nicollspouse to John Shepherd in Mekle Lour, par. of Forfar5 Feb 1617
James Nicolsonwriter in Forfar, par. of Tannadyce8 Feb 1710
Mrs Clementine Ochterlonyrelict of William Ker, sometime Provost of Forfar4 Jan 1790
Charles Ogilviewriter in Forfar19 Apr 1793
Susanna Ogilviespouse to Mr Thomas Small, minister at Forfar12 Oct 1681
James Orkneymaltman, burges of Forfar28 Oct 1674
Peter Ormondresiding in Restennet, par. of Forfar16 Jul 1799
Alexander OslerBarnyards, afterwards Forfar11 Jul 1804
Alexander Patonburges of Forfar10 Aug 1624
Mararet Patonspouse to David Sand, cordiner, burges of Forfar2 Apr 1628
Thomas Patonin Greinordie, par. of Forfar8 Apr 1641
David Petriecordiner, burges of Forfar8 Nov 1649
Gavin Porteousburges of Forfar9 Aug 1620
William Potterbrewer in Forfar29 Mar & 6 May 1815
Andrew Reilliein Lonehead of Meikle Lour, par. of Forfar21 Jun 1697
Thomas Rhind of Clocksbrigspar. of Forfar21 Oct 1681
William Rhindin Auchterforfar, par. of Forfar2 Jan 1618
John Ritchie, Esq.late master in H.M. Navy, residing in and late provost of Forfar7 & 13 Dec 1809, 3 Jan 1810
James Robertsvintner, Forfar26 Sep 1803
John Robertson of Pitruchiepar. of Forfar10 Apr 1723
Thomas Robertsonsometime writer in Forfar12 Mar 1686
John Rodgerin Bow, Forfar26 Oct 1685
Helen Sandspouse to John Wat, in Forfar23 Oct 1683
George Scottin Chapillmyln, Forfar3 Jul 1675
George Scottin Muirhouse, Forfar9 Jun 1697
Mrs Mary Sharpin Forfar, rel. of James Badenoch, farmer at Johnstone, prev. mar. to Patrick Brae8 Jun 1816
John Shepherdin Meikle Lour, par. of Forfar5 Feb 1617
Janet Simpson spouse to John Dickson, cordiner in Forfar22 Oct 1683
Mrs Elizabeth Skeneres. in F., only living child of Mr Geo. Skene, episc. min. Forfar, rel. of Mr Wm Jolly, episc. min. Kirriemuir31 Jan 1818
Robert Smallfarmer, Mill of Kincaldrum, later res. in F.10 Dec 1823
James Smithtailor in Forfar28 Jul 1819
John Smithcordiner in Forfar2 Nov 1620
John Smithtailor in Forfar15 Sep 1819
Robert Smithtenant in Coatmuir, and also sometime tenant in Auchscurrie, Forfar28 Mar 1745
Elizabeth SoutarForfar22 Feb 1803
John Sparkin Ledinfurd, par. of Forfar16 Nov 1625
John Sparkmerchant in Forfar13 Mar 1773
James Steel(e)brewer in Forfar8 & 30 Oct 1813
Miss Margaret Steeledau. of dec. James S., brewer there27 Jan 1814
Martha Steeleservant to William Allan, res. in Forfar30 Jan & 1 Feb 1619
Alexander Stevenin East mains, Forfar24 Sep 1683
Mararet Strachanspouse to Gabriell Guthrie, in Halkertoun, par. of Forfar18 Nov 1625
James Strangburges of Forfar31 Jul 1662
William Sturrockmanufacturer in Forfar7 Aug 1822
John Thomburges of Forfar22 May 1619
Charles Thorntonsometime bailie of Forfar20 Apr 1696
Margaret Thorntonspouse to James Thom, burges of Forfar21 Oct 1687
Thomas Thorntonwright, burges of Forfar18 Aug 1620
Walter Thorntonburges of Forfar17 0ct 1587
Catherine Tindallspouse to James Wallace, in Furdtull, par. of Forfar23 Oct 1685
David Tindall merchant in Forfar26 Oct 1789
Jean Tindallresidenter in Forfar26 Jan 1792
James Traillburges of Forfar16 Feb 1619
John Turner merchant in Forfar28 Aug 1793
James Urewriter in Forfar23 Apr 1686
William Urelate bailie in Forfar17 Feb 1714
William Urelawful son to the deceased William Ure, sometime bailie in Forfar8 May and 16 Oct 1723
William Ureresidenter in Forfar, and Jean Lindesay, his spouse, par. of Forfar3 Apr 1745
Christian Walkerspouse to Alexander Sturrok, in New-muir of Meikle Looir, par. of Forfar17 Feb 1621
James Walkerin Forfar10 Aug 1620
Mr James Walkertown clerk of Forfar16 Oct 1815
Janet Walkerspouse to John Strang, skinner, burges of Forfar14 Apr 1627
Patrick Wallacein Banneshoniald, par. of Forfar24 Oct 1685
James Wattin Carsburne, par. of Forfar27 Mar 1616
John Watt of Meathie, Esq.provost of Forfar14 Jan 1815
David Watterstounin Woodsyde of Lour, par. of Forfar14 Feb 1617
Catharine Websterrelict of William Kid, burges of Forfar26 Oct 1620
David Webstermerchant, Forfar18 Jun 1802
George Webster of Westfieldpar. of Forfar24 May 1823
William Websterbrabiner, burges of Forfar8 Nov 1649
James Weddellin Auchterforfar, par. of Forfar17 Feb 1621
Jean Whitespouse to Alexander Adam, mason in Forfar24 Oct 1683
Robert Whytebailie, tanner in Forfar5 Mar 1816, 7 May 1817, 1 & 18 Feb 1819
Janet Wichtane (Wichtoun)spouse to James Fairwedder, in Craignathro, par. of Forfar14 Apr 1627
Christian Williamsonsometime spouse of Michaell Banye, cordinar, burges of Forfar28 Oct 1587
David Wilsonnotar, burges of Forfar30 Jul 1617
David Wilsonin Drumgley [now in Kinnettles], sher. of Forfar8 Mar 1648
David Wilsonlawful son to umquhile David Wilsone, in Drumgley, par. of Forfar [now in Kinnettles]18 Oct 1649
Charles Woodtailor in Forfar21 Sep 1705
David Woodcordiner, burges of Forfar20 Jul 1649
Elizabeth Woodspouse to Christopher Ranny, par. of Forfar28 Oct 1674
George Woodlate bailie of Forfar20 Aug 1662
Helen Woodrelict of Archibald Anderson, burges of Forfar11 Aug 1620
Henry Woodmerchant, burges of Forfar3 Nov 1675
Donald Youngat the Mylne of Kirriemuir, thereafter in Forfar22 Oct 1713

Testaments registered at St Andrews that have been lost, for which only entries in the minute books are extant

Alexander Adambrewer in Forfar7 Jan 1742
William Binnyprovost of Forfar22 Oct 1740
David Brownmerchant in Forfar24 Feb 1742
Patrick Carnegie of Lourpar. of Forfar22 Sep 1736
John Christiemerchant in Forfar29 Aug 1763
Elizabeth Doigrelict of the also deceased -- Gordon, officer of Excise, par. of Forfar19 Apr 1764
Robert Fairweatherservant of Bruce Bell, in Dumfrae, par. of Forfar3 Jul 1730
John Fisherwriter in Forfar10 Oct 1744
Margaret Lawsonspouse to Thomas Scott, smith in Forfar25 Jan 1738
Elizabeth Lindsayrelict of William Ure, bailie in Forfar10 Nov 1736
Margaret Mylnedaughter of Thomas Mylne, in Lower, par. of Forfar29 Jan 1725
William Uresometime bailie of Forfar11 Nov 1724

Testaments of Forfar people from the Register of Testaments of the Commissariot of Brechin, 1576-1800
'T' before the date indicates that the copy in the register is lost, but the original testament is extant.

David Mathersmerchant, burgess of Forfar25 Jan 1658
Alexander Nevayburgess of Forfar13 Apr 1658
Mr Thomas Pearsonminister at Forfar16 Jun 1658
Christian Ramsayspouse to James Clark, merchant, citiner of Brechin, now in Forfar13 Feb 1633
John Stevenindweller in Forfar, and Janet Wood, his spouseT. 8 Mar 1659
William Whiteglover, burgess of Forfar26 Nov 1657

Testaments of Forfar & Restenneth people from the Register of Testaments of the Commissariot of Edinburgh, 1514-1600

Adam Brounhillin Nether-Craig, par. of Restennet, sher. of Forfar27 Jun 1598
Elizabeth Gardinsometime spouse to Andrew Gray of Lour, par. of Rastennet, sher. of Forfar23 Dec 1598
John Gray of Lourepar. of Restennet, sher. of Forfar2 Aug 1576 and 25 Dec 1595
James Hunterson lawful to umquhile William Hunter, burgess of Forfar26 May 1595
William Hunterburgess in Forfar10 Jul 1577
William Hunterson lawful to umquhile William Hunter, burgess of Forfar26 May 1595
Walter Kerburgess in Forfar28 Nov 1577
George Lyall (or Lyell)in Auchter-forfar, sher. of Forfar20 Feb 1582-3
Patrik Rynd of the Dod16 Jul 1577
James Suttieburgess of Forfar17 Jan 1582-3
James Thomsonburgess of Forfar1 Mar 1600
James Traillburgess in Forfar1 May 1577
Gilbert Whittitsheref-clerk of Forfar25 Dec 1594
Elizabeth Williamsonsometime spouse to Alexander Strang, barker, burgess in Forfar28 Nov 1577

Testaments of Forfar people from the Register of Testaments of the Commissariot of Edinburgh, 1601-1700

James Barriecordiner, burgess of Forfar28 May 1608
James Bonarsherif-deputy of Forfar9 Aug 1602
William Kidburgess of Forfar, in Angus26 Feb 1606
William Scottmerchant, burgess of Forfar, in Angus22 Jun 1607
Alexander Sympsonin Clokksbriggs, par. of Forfar6 Jul 1607
James Woodcordiner, burgess of Forfar, in Angus12 Mar 1607

Testaments of Forfar people from the Register of Testaments of the Commissariot of Edinburgh, 1701-1800

William Dicksonyoungest lawful son to the deceased Charles Dickson of Connonsyth, late provost of Forfar26 Sep 1735
Archbald Douglas, Earl of Forfar7 Feb and 21 Oct 1729
Margaret Hislopservitrix to Robina Lockhart, Countess of Forfar, and dau. to the deceased Robert Hislop, portioner of Inveresk16 Jul 1718
William Hunterlawful son of the deceased Thomas Hunter, wright in Forfar11 Jun 1751
Helen Jaffery or Jaffraydaughter of the deceased Alexander Jaffray, writer in Forfar, and relict of Colin McKenzie of Rosend4 Feb 1757

up

Royal burgh of Forfar: burgh records in the NRS [ref. B26/...]

Nature of recordDatesNRS ref.
Register of sasines, 1st series1680-1809B26/2/1 to B26/2/9
Minute book of 1st series of register of sasines1737-1760B26/3/1
do1751-1817[?]B26/3/2
Register of sasines, 2nd series1809-1935B26/4/1 to B26/4/99
Minute books of 2nd series of register of sasines1809-1935B26/5/1 to B26/5/10
Scroll minute books of 2nd series of register of sasines1895-1913B26/6/1 to B26/6/7
Presentment book1871-1885B26/7/1
Presentment book1885-1935B26/7/2
Register of deeds, protests (old series)1768-1803B26/8/1 to B26/8/5
Register of deeds, protests (new series)1809-1930B26/9/1 to B26/9/7
Minute book of register of deeds, protests (new series)1809-1916B26/10/1
Register of decreets1830-1854B26/11/1

Royal burgh of Forfar: burgh records in Angus Archives

Earliest document is dated 1568.

up

Royal burgh of Forfar: burgh records in Angus libraries

Index of persons for the Register of Sasines of the Burgh of Forfar, 1809-1914

up

Notaries' protocol books (for town clerks of Forfar)

NotariesDatesNRS ref.
David Pearson1605-1637B26/1/1
James Pearson1627-1642B26/1/2
Thomas Robertson, town clerk depute1661-1669B26/1/3

up

Provosts of Forfar, to 1974 (not yet in order; still subject to correction)

NameIn officeBornDiedInfo
Walter Lindsay?-1587-?
John Lindsay of Ballinshoe?-1595-?
David Hunter, elder?bef. 27 Mar 1616
Robert Rollock?-1614-?
Andrew Hunter?-1622-1623-?bef. 25 Jan 1639
Alexander Strangca. 1645 - ca. 1648
James Piggot?-1650-?, ?-1656-?
John Carnegie?-1686-1691-?
William Douglasca. 1725
Charles Dickson of Cononsyth [in Carmyllie]?bef. 26 Sep 1735
William Binny?bef. 22 Dec 1740
Alexander Binny of Whitewall?-1734-?, ?-1742, ?-1745-?
Andrew Hunter1742-1743
James Binny1743-?
Alexander Jaffray?bef. 17 Oct 1775
William Kerr?-1759-?bef. 4 Jan 1790
John Ure?-1760-?, ?-1785-1787-?
George Dempster of Dunnichen, M.P.?-1791-1792-?Feb 1732 Dundee13 Feb 1818 Dunnichen
David Watt of Meathie & Kinneries?ca. 17181797son of John, who bought Meathie and Kinneries
John Ritchie?-1800-?ca. 172131 Mar 1809
John Watt of Meathie & Kinneries?-1802-?ca. 175020 Aug 1814son of above David
James Craik?-?
Charles Webster?-1811-1816-?
William Meffan1819-182512 Mar 1829
John Seamanca 1832
Patrick Meffan1840-?, ?-1849-1851-?18 Jul 1795 Kinnettles11 Aug 1863banker, writer
William Potter?-1845-1846-1848-?2 Feb 1782 Forfar22 May 1862 Forfarmerchant
John Lowson?7 Feb 1786 Forfar2 Jan 1875linen manufacturer; Portrait
James Lowson, junior1860-186329 Dec 1814 Forfar27 Nov 1883 Forfarjute & linen manufacturer; Portrait
John Lowson, jun., of Beechhill?-?9 Oct 1813 Forfar9 Apr 1903 Forfarlinen manufacturer; portrait gifted to town by gson in 1936.
James Craik, junior?-1865-?11 Jun 1816 Forfar29 Mar 1872linen manufacturer; husband of Catherine Fyfe; Portrait
John Whyte?-1867-?, ?-1881ca. 1830 Menmuir1906tanner, leather merchant
Peter Reid1881-18846 Oct 1803 Forfar16 Jan 1897confectioner; Portrait
William Doig1884-1893ca. 1820 Forfar6 Mar 1900 Forfargame dealer; Portrait
John Peter Anderson1893-1895ca. 1845 Edinburgh20 Jun 1918 Forfarsolicitor; resided at Lochbank House
James McDougall1895-1901
James William Adamson1901-19075 Jun 1847 Forfar3 Jun 1926linen & jute manufacturer; Monument, Newmonthill Cemetery
James Moffat, O.B.E.1907-1925
James Alfred Lowson, M.B., C.M. (Edin.)1925-19311 Jul 1866 Forfar21 Oct 1935 ForfarMedical Officer of Health, Hong Kong in 1894; Portrait - middle initial 'G' erroneous
-- Peffers1931-193222 Jan 1932
Thomas Hanick1932-1934ca. 1878 Forfar17 Sep 1934 Forfardraper
J. N. Graham?-1935-1937
Col. Lionel Edward Hill1937-19431969 Forfar
A. M. Lowson1943-1950
Andrew Chalmers Smyth, O.B.E.?-1951-1956-?5 Aug 1903 Newtyle2 Feb 1979 ForfarHonorary burgess, 1972
David L. Urquhart?-1957-1959-?
Robert Lind?-1959-1961-?
Charles Waugh Renilson, C.B.E.1962-19671913 Jedburgh1983 Forfar

up

Bailies (Magistrates) of Forfar, to 1974

In office1st2nd
1650-1George WoodAlexander Scott
1742-3James Binny, shoemakerWilliam Brown, writer
1743-4David CautyWilliam Brown, writer
1825-6James MurrayPatrick Whyte
1845-6John LowJames Barry
1846-7John LowJohn Fyfe

up

Town treasurers of Forfar, to 1974

NameIn officeBornDiedInfo
John Dickson?-1656-?
Andrew Cauty?-1660-1661-?
John Brandon?-1662-1663-?
David Wood?-1684-?
Henry Forrest?-1706-1707-?
John Cook?-1712-1713-?
Robert Wedderburn of Pearsie?-1742-?
John Benson?-1802-?
Patrick Shedden?-1807-?
John Petrie?-1825-?
John Fyfe, jun.1845-1847

up

Deans of Guild of Forfar, to 1974

NameIn officeBornDiedInfo

up

Town clerks of Forfar

NameIn officeBornDiedInfo
Gilbert Quittet?-?9 Aug 1594MI in Howff, Dundee
John Traill?-1598-?bef. 1620
Mr David Peirson?-1619-?
Andrew Binny?-1748-?bef. 1 Dec 1769
James Webster?bef. 31 Jul 1810
James Walker?-1803-?bef. 16 Oct 1815
James Adam[1815], ?-1825-?bef. 26 Feb 1848
William Hunter1815-1837-?bef. 8 Dec 1845appointed interim t/c 11 Jul 1815; bankrupt: see NRS ref. CS280/11/24; depute t/c 1825
William Roberts?-1845-1871ca. 1803 Forfar26 Apr 1871 Forfarsolicitor & bank agent
James Taylor1871-1895ca. 1828 Fordoun8 May 1895 Heatherstacks near ForfarPortrait
Lt-Col. Alexander MacHardy1895-1935ca. 1842 Kirkden16 Feb 1935deputy lieutenant of Angus; hon. sheriff-substitute
William Whyte1935-1946
Hamish Brown Grant, M.A., LL.B.1946-1949-?1985 Aviemore
William S. McCulloch?-1957-1967-?
Thomas G. Milne?-1969-1975

up

Forfar craft records

up

Forfar Sheriff Court records, 1568-1984

See the Summary of the Records of Forfar Sheriff Court on the page for court records.

up

Valuation rolls

Valuation rolls of properties in the Burgh of Forfar, 1906-1970, are held by Angus Archives, ref. F/2.

Valuation rolls of properties in the Burgh of Forfar, 1925-1975 (except 1927/28, 1928/29, 1930/31, 1933/34, 1934/35, 1940/41, 1941/42, 1947/48), and in the County of Angus, 1895-1930, are held in Forfar Library.

Valuation rolls of properties in the County of Angus, for the years 1855, 1865, 1875, 1885, 1895, 1905, 1915, 1920, 1925, 1930, 1935 and 1940 only, can be seen at ScotlandsPeople.

up

Tax records

Surname index to Forfar Hearth Tax, 1693 [Angus Archives ref. 33:941]

Window Tax, royal burgh of Forfar, 1753-1798 [NRS ref. E326/1/169]

up

Clock & watch tax, 1797-8

Images of the original records for Forfar:

NRS ref. E326/12/2/57

up

Farm horse tax, 1797-8

Images of the original records for Forfar:

up

Newspapers

up

Libraries

Forfar Library

up

Places of interest

up

This page updated 17 Jan 2023 & all links checked Aug 2022