Biography

William Douglas. (Ca. 1730-1784) (aka. 4th Bart of Kelhead)

4th Bart of Kelhead. Son of Sir John Douglas, 3rd of Kelhead (and son of Boswell's mother's half-sister Helen Erskine) and Christian Cunninghame (1710-1741). Married Grace Johnstone (d. 1836) in 1772. A Captain in 1762. His sons Charles and John later became 6th and 7th Marquesses of Queensberry, respectively. He was also a sometime Member of Parliament.

Life with James Boswell:

Boswell possibly was in William Douglas' company on October 6, 1762, when he visited Douglas' family at Kelhead. Boswell mentions a "Mr. Douglas, son to Sir John, an officer in the Greys, an amiable young fellow whom I hope to see in the circumstances which he deserves". However, Sir John did have two other surviving sons, at least one of whom was in the army. Also, I rather doubt if Boswell would refer to a 32 year old as a young fellow.

JB also dined with Douglas and Captain Maxwell on December 20, 1762.

External links:

• Douglas family tree - from Stirnet

This article was last updated at February 05 2008 12:03:56 CET

Other links of possible interest