Henry Erskine, 10th Earl of Buchan, Scottish politician (d. 1767)

Henry David Erskine, the 10th Earl of Buchan, born on April 17, 1710, and passing away on December 1, 1767, was a prominent figure within the Scottish peerage during the 18th century. Before inheriting the esteemed earldom in 1745, he was formally known by the courtesy title of Lord Auchterhouse, a designation reflecting his position as the heir apparent to the Buchan title. His life was marked by intellectual pursuits, social engagement, and familial continuity.

Early Life and Family Lineage

As the eldest surviving son of David Erskine, the 9th Earl of Buchan, Henry David was born into a lineage deeply rooted in Scottish aristocracy. His mother was Frances, the daughter of Henry Fairfax, linking him to another notable family. This familial background provided him with a clear path to inherit the Earldom of Buchan, a title that has been held by the Erskine family for centuries, connecting him to a rich tapestry of Scottish history and influence.

Public Service and Affiliations

Lord Buchan distinguished himself not only through his inherited status but also through his active participation in significant societal institutions. In 1734, he was elected a Fellow of the Royal Society (FRS), a prestigious recognition of his interest in and contribution to the advancement of natural knowledge. This society, one of the oldest learned societies in the world, brought together the leading scientific minds of the era.

Beyond his intellectual pursuits, Lord Buchan was also deeply involved in the burgeoning movement of Freemasonry in Scotland. A dedicated freemason, he ascended to the esteemed position of Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Scotland, serving in this influential role between 1745 and 1746. This period saw Freemasonry playing a significant part in the social and intellectual life of Scotland, offering a network for influential individuals and fostering ideals of enlightenment and brotherhood.

Marriage and Children

On January 31, 1739, Lord Buchan entered into matrimony with Agnes Steuart, the daughter of Sir James Steuart, 7th Baronet of Goodtrees. This union brought together two distinguished Scottish families, typical of the marital alliances among the gentry and peerage of the time. Together, Henry David and Agnes had six children, ensuring the continuation of the Erskine line and adding new branches to their familial tree:

• Lady Anne Agnes Erskine (born 1739; died October 5, 1804): Their eldest child, who lived a full life into the early 19th century.
• David Erskine, Lord Cardross (1741–1747): Sadly, their first son to bear the courtesy title of Lord Cardross passed away at a very young age, a common tragedy in an era before modern medicine.
• David Stewart Erskine, 11th Earl of Buchan (born June 1, 1742; died April 19, 1829): Despite his elder brother's early demise, David Stewart became the next in line and ultimately succeeded his father, carrying on the earldom. He became a notable figure in his own right, known for his eccentricities and intellectual pursuits.
• Henry Erskine (born November 1, 1746; died 1817): This Henry Erskine was a distinguished advocate and politician, renowned for his wit and legal prowess. He would later become the father of Henry Erskine, the 12th Earl of Buchan, thus ensuring another generation of the family would hold the title.
• Thomas Erskine, 1st Baron Erskine (born January 10, 1750; died 1823): Perhaps the most celebrated of Lord Buchan's sons, Thomas rose to immense prominence as an exceptional lawyer and statesman, eventually serving as Lord High Chancellor of Great Britain and being elevated to the peerage as Baron Erskine.
• Lady Isabella Erskine (died 1824): Their youngest daughter, who also lived into the 19th century.

Later Years and Legacy

Henry David Erskine, 10th Earl of Buchan, passed away in December 1767 at Walcot, a locality in Somerset, England, at the age of 57. His death marked the end of a life dedicated to family, intellectual curiosity, and social leadership. He was succeeded in the earldom by his second but eldest surviving son, David Stewart Erskine, who then became the 11th Earl of Buchan.

His wife, Agnes, the Countess of Buchan, survived him for over a decade. She passed away in Edinburgh, Scotland, in December 1778, at the age of 61. The legacy of the 10th Earl of Buchan is not only found in the continuation of his noble line but also in the distinguished achievements of his children, particularly Thomas, who left an indelible mark on British legal and political history.

Frequently Asked Questions about Henry David Erskine, 10th Earl of Buchan

Who was Henry David Erskine?

Henry David Erskine was the 10th Earl of Buchan, a Scottish peer who lived from 1710 to 1767. He was known for his involvement in the Royal Society and as Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Scotland.

What was his connection to the Royal Society?

He was elected a Fellow of the Royal Society (FRS) in 1734, indicating his interest in natural philosophy and scientific advancement during the Enlightenment era.

What was his role in Freemasonry?

Lord Buchan served as the Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Scotland between 1745 and 1746, a significant leadership position within Scottish Freemasonry.

Who was his wife and how many children did they have?

He married Agnes Steuart, daughter of Sir James Steuart, 7th Baronet, on January 31, 1739. Together, they had six children: Lady Anne Agnes, David (Lord Cardross), David Stewart (who became the 11th Earl), Henry, Thomas (who became 1st Baron Erskine), and Lady Isabella.

Which of his children became particularly famous?

His son, Thomas Erskine, became a highly distinguished lawyer and politician, rising to the position of Lord High Chancellor of Great Britain and being created the 1st Baron Erskine.

Who succeeded him as Earl of Buchan?

He was succeeded by his second but eldest surviving son, David Stewart Erskine, who became the 11th Earl of Buchan.