Papers of Archibald Davidson, Principal of Glasgow University (d. 1803)

The papers are composed of correspondence, including: letter to solicitor in Lincoln's Inn, 1786; letter to the Duke of Montrose, Lord Chancellor of the University of Glasgow, 1791; and a letter about the education of divinity students. There are also testimonials in commendation of a book on heraldry.

Archibald Davidson was a student of Glasgow University. He obtained his M.A. in 1752 and the degree of D.D. in 1786. He was a Minister in Paisley from 1758 to 1761 and Minister of Inchinnan from 1761 until 1786. He succeeded William Leechman as Principal of Glasgow University in 1786. He remained in office until 1803. Archibald Davidson died on 7 July 1803.

Generally open for consultation to bona fide researchers, but please contact repository for details in advance.

Letter to solicitor, Lincoln's Inn, purchased June 1971, Accession no. E71.21.

The biographical/administrative history was compiled using the following material: (1) Mackie, J. D. The University of Glasgow 1451-1951. Glasgow: Jackson, Son and Co., 1954. (2) Addison, W. Innes (compiler). A roll of graduates of the University of Glasgow from 31st December, 1727 to 31st December, 1897. Glasgow: James Maclehose and sons, 1898.

Compiled by Graeme D Eddie, Edinburgh University Library, Special Collections Division.

Important finding aids generally are: the alphabetical Index to Manuscripts held at Edinburgh University Library, Special Collections and Archives, consisting of typed slips in sheaf binders and to which additions were made until 1987; and the Index to Accessions Since 1987.