Perthshire based MSP Liz Smith has called for greater recognition to be given to Perthshire’s Adam Ferguson (1723 - 1816), the renowned Scottish philosopher and historian of the Scottish Enlightenment. Ferguson also had strong Perthshire connections having gained appointment as deputy chaplain of the 43rd regiment of the Black Watch.
Ferguson was born in Logierait and attended both Logierait Parish School and Perth Grammar School before becoming an undergraduate at the Universities of Edinburgh and St Andrews.
Liz Smith MSP said:
“There are many who think that Adam Ferguson is Perthshire’s forgotten son and that much more can be done to celebrate his local roots in Perthshire and his distinguished contributions to Scotland particularly in the fields of philosophy and history at a time when Scotland played such a vital role in the Enlightenment.
“As Perth & Kinross Council is now about to build a new secondary school for the City perhaps consideration could be given to Adam Ferguson name being given to the new school in order to mark the life of this remarkable son of Perthshire.
“I have written to Bernadette Malone, Chief Executive of Perth & Kinross Council to ask for this to be taken into consideration.”