Thomas Chalmers

The junction of George Street and Castle Street.

Thomas Chalmers was born in 1780 and was a very famous mathematician, political economist and church leader.

He caused trouble where ever he went. He taught mathematics in the University of St Andrews - but his lectures were far too exciting. The University cancelled them because they couldn't handle the enthusiasm they provoked among the students. While he was in St Andrews he also became ordained as the minister of Kilmany.

He applied to be Professor of Mathematics at Edinburgh - but maybe not surprisingly was turned down.

His energies then turned to the church. He became minister of the Tron Church in Glasgow and set about reorganising the Church in the city, and talked the Town Council into upping the game of the Church in Glasgow with new builds.

He became interested in the relationship between the new astronomy and religion. His reputation spread far and wide. William Wilberforce wrote: "All the world is wild about Dr Chalmers!"

But his real claim to fame was just round the corner. (More tomorrow).


Following on yesterday's blip - this is St George's from further along George Street - showing how it was meant to be the visual conclusion of the fine architecture.

St George's Edinburgh