LEARMONTH-LERMONTOV. A HYISTORY OF THE NAME AND FAMILIES

Learmonth – Lermontov.
A history of the name and families.
Tatiana Molchanova & Rex Learmonth
2011
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Introduction.
This book explores the history of the surname Learmonth
and its origins in Great Britain. The world’s largest country,
Russia, is the home of the Lermontovs who originated from the
Learmonths of Scotland.
The object of our research was to identify the origin of the
surname Learmonth (Scottish) / Lermontov (Russian) and the
history of the families from the beginning to the present day. We
tried to stay focused on these objectives but we were often sidetracked
down the many interesting avenues that were found,
which, if fully investigated, would have meant that this research
would have turned into a lifetime’s occupation.
The history of this surname can be traced back almost
1,000 years. So it was difficult to avoid items of history that are
attributed to ancient legends, or folklore, particularly those
connected to the mysterious Thomas Learmonth or Thomas the
Rhymer.
Our conclusions and hypotheses are based on archive
documents, history books, and reliable internet sites.
The British origins of the Learmonths began in the Scottish
Borders which was a turbulent place beset by war as well as local
troubles before England and Scotland united as one Kingdom in
1603. The records that were kept by the early Catholic Church in
Scotland were largely destroyed during the Reformation along with
their paintings and icons. The Protestant Church which followed
started recording births, deaths and marriages in the early 17th
century. However, in some parishes the clergy’s literary ability
was poor, making the handwriting indecipherable. Over the years
many church record books were lost, damaged by damp, burnt in a
fire, or even eaten by mice. The lack of many records of births,
deaths and marriages before 1855, when the official records began
in Scotland, means that tracing family-lines back to ancient times
in many cases is not possible. Despite this we were able to trace
the origin of the surname Learmonth and to show that it evolved
from the same original place (family), or group of families.
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In 2009 Professor Bryan Sykes of Oxford Ancestors
analyzed the male Y-chromosome DNA donated by seven
Learmonth volunteers. As a result the volunteer English
Learmonths fall into two genetic clans: Ehu (E1b1b) and Sigurd
(R1a) with the Lermontovs belonging to clan Oisin (R1b). This
investigation confirmed that 700 years ago when surnames came
into general use in the British Isles there were at least three original
progenitors whose modern day descendants bear the name
Learmonth.
This result is consistent with a recent study of British
surnames, which illustrates that there were multiple genetic
founders for any surname. Oisin is one of the largest clans in the
British Isles and it is believed that if more Y-chromosome studies
were carried out more Learmonths belonging to the clan Oisin
would be identified in England, Scotland and other countries.
The results from Prof Sykes’s investigation are also
consistent with our hypothesis that the original person who became
the founder of the villages of Learmouth and the surname
Learmonth came from Europe (detailed in the chapters “The roots
of the surname Learmonth and the village of Learmouth”).
The early records that survived spell the name: Lermont,
Lermond, Lerment, Leirmont, Lermouth or Leirmouth, and many
others, however, they all sound similar. Before the 19 th century
most people could not read or write, so they were unable to check
the accuracy of what was written down and therefore, in some
cases, you could be recorded as being called Lermont at birth,
Learment when you were married and Leirmount when you were
buried.
Today the modern spelling Learmonth is not that far
removed from the originals and is the most common. However
some families from the same origins still have their name spelt in
the old ways, because people became literate at different times and
they would adopt the way the name was spelt at the time in their
parish or town which was the passed down their family line. In
Russia the Scottish Leirmont surname was adopted as
Lermont\Lermant, then Lermantov and Lermontoff; and finally
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Lermontov.
In the following research the modern spelling Learmonth is
used except when an original document is referred to, quoted from,
or illustrated.
As in most families, the majority of our ancestors were
ordinary, hard working people. However, some had particular
talents and were exceptional, and just as today, through hard work
and a need to succeed in their chosen sphere they became well
known and are recorded in the history of their countries.
Historians generally agree that the legendary
Scottish prophet and poet Thomas Rhymer was a member of an
ancient Learmonth family. Ten generations of the Learmonth
family of Fife (1420 to 1657) held the highest administrative
positions in the city of St Andrews and played a historical role in
the struggle between the Catholics and Protestants during the
Reformation period. The mother of the Scottish martyr George
Wishart was a member of this Fife family. This Learmonth family
became related to the British Monarchy through their marriages.
The children of Sir George Learmonth of Balcomie were
the fourth cousins of Mary Queen of Scots. The Great Russian poet
Mikhail Yurievich Lermontov who is characterized as a prophet
and mystic was a descendant of the Learmonths of Fife. Sir John
Learmonth of Balcomie was Lady Diana's twelfth-Great
Grandfather. Edinburgh, the capital of Scotland, has an Avenue, a
Terrace, a Grove, a hotel and other locations named after John
Learmonth, a Provost of the city. The unforgettable Scottish
composer George Learmonth Drysdale was called the Scottish
Grieg. Sir James Learmonth became known as the father of
modern neurosurgery. Learmonth families were among the pioneer
settlers in Australia, New Zealand, Canada and the USA. Their
impact is noticeable in the progress of many of these countries
particularly in Australia where there are several locations named
Learmonth.
However, the saying ‘clogs to clogs in three generations’,
does remain generally true, in so much as the descendants of these
individuals become ordinary people again.
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In conclusion we would like to point out that anyone who is
named Learmonth or Lermontov or anyone connected to these
families should be proud, as we have come to realize that they
have presented the world with many decent, energetic and talented
people.
It can be truly said by a modern-day person called
Learmonth, or a similar name-variant, that their family name has
passed through time for over a thousand years and that it is
pronounced today more or less the same as it was when it first
came to be used.
Historical background.
The most comprehensive source for Scottish surnames:
“The Scottish nation. Or, the surnames, families, literature,
honours, and biographical history of the people of Scotland” by
William Anderson (1877, p. 641) tells us that the Learmonth
surname had multiple spellings and is as old as the reign of
Malcolm III.
The following is recorded in the handwriting of the 17th
century “The genealogy of the honourable and ancient surname of
Leirmont. Leirmont bears “Or on a chevron, sable, three mascles
voided of the first”; “the name came from France”. The last
document (Illus. 1: 1.A.) was found by Sir Walter Scott in the
Edinburgh Archives (“The poetical work of Sir Walter Scott,
Baronet”, Edinburgh, 1821, p. ix).
We spent some ten years finding earlier sources, to confirm
the reliability of Sir Walter Scott’s research, and to write a history
of the surname.
The name Leirmont was among Malcolm’s III supporters
described for the first time by Hector Boece in his “Scotorum
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historiae a prima gentis origine”, printed in Paris in 1527: “Ili
primi fuere comites quorum nostri meminerunt annales. Multarum
nova cognomina Scotorum familiis indita, Calder, Locart, Gordon,
Setoun, Gallora, Laudir, Wawain, Meldrun, Shaw, Leirmont,
Libert, Straquhyn, Cargil, Ratra, Doundas, Cocburn, Mar,
Menzees, Abbercromme, Lesbei, Myrtoun multaque alia
praediorum nomina, quibus viri fortes a rege donati in munerum
concessere cognomina.”.
According to Boece, Leirmont came from England. We
therefore conclude that he was among Knights that were sent by
Edward the Confessor to support Malcolm in his war with Macbeth
to regain his rightful place as King of Scotland. In the year 1057
Malcolm defeated Macbeth and regained his Kingdom. He then
held a Parliament in Forfar Castle to outline how the country
should be governed and to award his brave allies with lands and
dignities. He asked them to identify their lands with their names, or
to adopt the name of their new lands. Many of them became
progenitors of the Scottish ancient families.
John Bellenden, a Scottish historian 1533–1587, was the
first writer to translate Hector Boece’s “Scotorum historiae” in
1535 by order of King James V. In his work the Leirmont surname
is spelt as Leirmouth. Many other writers of Scottish history such
as John Leslie (1571), bishop of Ross; Father James Dalrymple, a
Scottish monk at Ratisbon (1596); George Mackenzie, of Kildun
(1708) all refer to Hector Boece’s “Scotorum historiae“ and
translate the name Leirmont to the spelling of the 16 th century.
An interesting document was unexpectedly found in Russia
dated 1688 (Illus. 1, 1.B.) which was provided by the Lermontov
family as proof of their Scottish ancestry in 1613. They were
descended from a Scottish mercenary soldier George Leirmont [1].
The literal interpretation could be as ‘Our relative had received
lands in Scotland. It the year 1057 after Christ Scottish lands of the
direct heir Milcolumbus (Malcolmus) were taken out by Tyrant
Makbetus and Milcolumbus’s father Dankanus Third was killed by
this Tyrant. And Milcolumbus received favours from the English
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King Edwardus as a result the King had ordered Milcolumbus to
accept any person which would like to go with him to return to his
natural Kingdom. Many noble men of English and French origin,
together with others went with Milcolumbus, and they helped him
to defeat those Tyrant Makbetus, and cleaned up Milcolumbus
Scottish Kingdom. And he (Milcolumbus) granted them lands for
their service, and Lermant was granted with land Rarsi (was later
read as Darsie), which his heirs had owned till now. The witnesses
of that are Gector Boeshuev, Yaganus Lesl and also other
chroniclers. This was signed by General and Lieutenant Peter
Ivanovich Gordon and other colonels”.
In this Russian document there is a remarkable similarity in
the spelling of Malcolm as Milcolumbus, Macbeth as Makbetus,
and Duncan as Dankanus. This spelling is very similar to Latin
written in old documents. Marianus (Marianus Scotus (1028-1082
or 1083), chronicler (who must be distinguished from his
namesake Marianus Scotus, d. 1088, abbot of St Peter's,
Regensburg) has in 1057 "Macfinlaeg occiditur in Augusto;" and
again, "Inde Macfin-laeg regnavit annisad eandem missam Sanctae
Mariae" (15th August). Tighernac under 1057, Macbethadh mic
Findlaich Airdri (sovereign of) Alban domarbad do (slain by)
Maelcolaim mic Dondcadha, to which the Ulster Annals add "i
cath" (in battle) [2] It therefore means that in 1688 the Lermontovs
were familiar with old Latin documents. As the Lermontov family
evidence regarding their Learmonth ancestors origins is very
similar to the other versions already detailed, we can therefore be
reasonably certain that their information came from the same
source. The history of this Russian Lermontov family is described
in another section of our book.
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Hector Boece was always criticized for his imaginative
history of Scotland. We therefore detail below a chronicle of the
people called Learmonth who were recorded from early times with
the spelling of their period.
This confirms the very ancient origin of the Learmonth
surname. It also rehabilitates Hector Boece’s view on the origin of
the Learmonth surname.
Chronicle of the Learmonth surname from early times:
1203-1204
Gerard de Leiramund, Suffolk, England (Illus. 1: 1.C).
During the reign of the King John (1199-1216) Gerard de
Leheramont son of Peter, (and with other spelling Gerard de
Leiramund, Ger. de Leermut) got the lands from king John of
England in the Suffolk county of England (one in a Netestede or
Nettlestead) [3].
Footnote: spelling Leirmund of Darse of a surname appeared in
“Seton Armorial”, 1591.
c. 1230
Beatrice Lermouth married William MacIntosh, Scotland [4]
1267
Osegot de Leirmue (Learmouth) is mentioned in 1257,
Northumberland the [5]
1220-1296
Thomas Rhymer of Earlston, Leirmont (many sources see below).
1301-1302
Adam Leyrmouth: Oct 6, 1301, Duniplace. The like for Adam de
Leyrmouth for good service in the maritime pars of Scotland
(Adam Leyrmouth served Edward I, King of England) [6].
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1320
Thomas Lermonth of Cremennan, appeared in the Chartulary of
Dunbartonshire, Scotland. His heirs Mathild, Elizabeth, and
Forveleth were inquested for serving by Malcolm, earl of Lennox
[7].
1322
William de Lermuth. He was found in the “Calendar of Chancery
Warrants preserved in the Public Record Office, AD1244-1326”
[6].
1330
Adam Lethermouth was a groom of Edward III, king of England,
England [8].
1359
John Lermouth, Clerk, Kedington, Haverhill, Suffolk, England [9].
1382
Elena de Leyrmouth, Aldwark manor in York, Yorkshire [10].
1392
John Levermouth was a constable in Basingstoke (Basingstoke,
Hampshire, England). In 1340 the king granted to John Brocas
certain lands in Wokefield chose near Basingstoke which Amy de
Gaveston held for life by the King's grant. John was succeeded by
Sir Bernard Brocas. In 1361 Bernard Brocas married Mary the
daughter and heir of John des Roches, and obtained in right of his
wife the mastership of the Royal Buckhounds [11].
1400-1690
Learmonths of Fife, Scotland. Spelling: Leirmont, Leyrmouth,
Lermuth, Leirmouth, Learmonth (many sources, see below).
1408 and 1426
William de Leirmontht (Lermonth) was a clerk in Swinton,
Mexborough, Yorkshire (William Anderson, 1867, see above).
1426
Andro Lermonth was a member of Old Edinbourgh Club [12].
1429
Levermonths of Bamburgh, Northumberland.
Licence, for 10 s. paid in the hanaper, for William Bane, the elder
and younger, chaplains, to demise eight messuages, 100 acres of
land, 10 acres of meadow and 10 acres of pesture, which are held
in chief in Bamburgh and Rokesburgh, co. Northumberland, to
John Levermouth and Margaret, his wife, for life, with remainder
to Alexander Levermouth, son of the said John, and the heirs of his
body, with remainder to Isabel Levermouth, sister of said
Alexander and the heirs male of her body, with remainder to
Richard Levermouth and the heirs male of his body, with
remainder to James Levermouth and the heirs male of his body,
with remainder to William Levermouth and the heirs male of his
body, with remainder to Margaret Levermouth and the heirs male
of her body, with remainder to Elizabeth Levermouth and the heirs
male of her body, with remainder to Adam Badby and the heirs
male of his body, with remainder to, with remainder over to the
right heirs of the aforesaid John [13].
1429
George de Lermonth (Lermuth), of noble race, first holding church
of Kilmany (Cupar, Fife, Scotland), priest, St Andrews diocese,
studding at Rome, graduated in 1429 MA (Master of Art),
Formerly Pope made a special grace to George de Lermuth, priest,
St Andrews diocese, M.A., of parish church of Newton, said
diocese [14].
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1435
Alexander Lermouth, surveyor and clerk of the King’s work at
Carlisle, Roxburgh and Berwick, Northumberland [15].
1435
Commission to Alexander Lermouth, esquire, to provide carriage
by land and water from London to Berwick upon Tweed for lances,
lows, arrows, bowstrings and other habiliments for the equipment
of the said town and the King’s marches there [15].
1439
Grant for life to Alexander Lermouth, esquire, of the office of
receiver general of the castle and Lordship of Bamburgh, in lieu of
a grant thereof, during pleasure, surrendered [15].
1442
Appointment, during pleasure, of Alexander Lermouth, esquire, as
receiver general of the castle and Lordship of Bamburgh, so that he
account for all issues [15].
1454
Jacobus Lermouth (Lermonth) was presbyter in Glasgow, Scotland
(William Anderson, 1867).
1463
Grant for life to William Lermouth, gentlemen of the office of
coroner within the King’s lordship of Bamburgh, co.
Northumberland, with all lands and other accustomed profits, in
the same manner as Tomas Knaptom held the same, or John de
Lermouth in the right of Margaret his wife; and also all wreck of
sea within the Lordship [16].
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1471
Sir William Lermouth of Bamburgh (Lancastrians) was killed at
the Battle of Tewkesbury in the “War of the Roses” [17]
Historical note: The Battle of Tewkesbury in Gloucestershire,
which took place on 4 May 1471, completed one phase of the Wars
of the Roses. It put a temporary end to Lancastrian hopes of
regaining the throne of England.
1479
William Leurmonth was a citizen of Polwart near Duns (Polwarth,
the Scottish Borders) [18].
1485-1493
Stephen Lermonth was an indweller in Whitekirk, Dunbar, East
Lothian, Scotland. Stephen Lermonth has sons: James Lermonth,
Walter Lermonth and George Lermonth [19].
1492-1496
David Lermonth, Abbot of Scone, Perthshire, Scotland, former
holder of vicarage of Dow [20]
The abbey had important royal functions, being next to the
coronation site of Scottish kings and housing the coronation stone
(until it was taken away by King Edward I of England). Scone
Abbey was, in the words of King Máel Coluim IV, "in principali
sede regni nostri" (RRS, no. 243; trs. "in the principle seat of our
Kingdom"), and as such was one of the chief residences of the
Scottish kings. The abbey would play host to the King while he
resided there, even if the abbey did not have a separate palace. It is
probable that the abbey buildings (now gone) overlapped with a
modern palace.
1500
William Lermouth, Rector, ‘All Saints’ Church, Bircham Newton
(King's Lynn), Norfolk, England. ‘All Saints’ Church is one of the
smallest in the county and was constructed mostly in the 13th
century. Its ancient pews have candle holders or picket lights
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which are still used today during the occasional service "Bircham
Newton" [21].
1522
William Lermocht was in the Monastery of Coldingham, Scotland
[22].
1525-1530
Elizabeth Leyrmount (Leirmonth) was wife of Alexander
Ochterloney, son and heir apparent to William Ochterloney of
Kelly. They received the King’s confirmation to owner the land of
Kelly in Kyncoldrum, Forfar, Scotland [23].
1540-1541
Sir William Lermouth, Park, Wartling, Hailsham, Sussex, England
(near Hastings) [24].
1552
Robert Leirmouth was a tutor of Jean Stryveling (Stirling), foubegotten
daughter of Sir James Stirling of Keir. He also received
land in Dunblane, Stirling, Scotland [25].
1562
Michaele Leirmont in Crosraguel Abbey, Ayrshire [26]
1583
Thomas Leirmonth, Erslingtoun (Earlston, Berwickshire),
Scotland. The instrument of Sasine, dated 14th March 1583, in
favour of Thomas Leirmonth, son and heir of apparent of John
Leirmonth of Erslingtoun, in those two acres of Erslingtoun which
formerly belonged to the deceased Thomas Rymer, lying in the
town and territory of Erslingtoun, Eardom of March and
sheriffdom of Berwick, and which the said John had resigned;
proceeding upon a Precept granted by Sir Alexander Henryson,
Master of Hospital of Trinity College near Erslingtoun, with
counsel of Robert Pont, provost of Edinburgh, and of the
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prebendaries of the said church, superiors of the said lands, dated
7th April 1576 [27].
We should point out that some of these documents were
edited in the XIX century so the spelling of the surname may have
been altered to the spelling of the period. Nevertheless this
chronicle demonstrates clearly an ancient origin of a surname.
Most of the people listed above used the territorial prefix. This
leads us to believe that they came from a land/place which sounded
similar to the how the surname sounded during the XII century.
The place name that fits well for the spelling Learmonth
was recorded as Leuremue in AD1177 in the parish of Carham,
Northumberland on the Scottish border [28] This spelling
Leuremue became Learmouth over the centuries due to changes in
the language and the influences of culture and literature.
Learmouth Township.
Situated south of Wark, in ancient times Learmouth shared
the same defensive castle or tower as its more important
neighbour. When the castle was attacked, all the neighbouring
villages would naturally suffer, although the fortress would afford
protection to the inhabitants if not to their lands. There were
several spellings of Leuremue recorded after 1177: Livermue in
1226; Levermue in 1251; Levermue in 1246, 1255 and 1273;
Leyrmuth in 1273; Levermuth in 1346 and in 1461; Lermouth in
1521; Leremouthe in 1542; Leyrmouth in 1543; Leirmouth in 1664
[29] (Illus. 2).
In 1296, thirteen householders in Learmouth were assessed
for the lay subsidy as against five in Wark. At some unknown date
the township was divided into moieties, one being given to the
rectory of Ilderton, and the other remaining in the hands of the
owners of Wark.
We believe after this period they became known as Old and
New Learmouth and then East and West Learmouth. The second of
these two moieties went with the Wark property probably until the
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eginning of the eighteenth century; though on one or two
occasions younger sons were provided with a portion therein. Thus
in the latter part of the twelfth century, Jordan Bussey, the second
son of Walter Espec's sister and coheiress, Hawise, owned a toft
and two bovates of land there, which he gave to Kirkham Priory,
and which after the Dissolution found its way into the hands of the
crown. In 1275 Wilham Roos, younger son of Robert Roos of
Wark, and a minor, seems to have held the villa on the ground that
his father had enfeoffed him just before his death. The guardian of
Robert Roos of Wark intervened, and got a judgment in favour of
his ward, though William's friends thought it worth their while to
prosecute the jury for having sworn a false oath. At a much later
date Edward Grey, doubtless a cadet of the house of Wark and
Chillingham which then owned Learmouth, had the mill there for
life, but being a papist delinquent, had it sequestrated by the
commonwealth government. After the death of Ford, Lord Grey
and earl of Tankerville, the property went to his brother, Ralph,
Lord Grey, who bequeathed it with the rest of his property in 1705
to his nephew, Henry Neville, for life and after his demise to his
first and tenth son successively in tail male, upon condition of their
taking the name of Grey, and in default of such issue to his cousin,
John Grey of Howick. Henry Neville, alias Grey, died without
issue, and the estates to which he succeeded then passed to Sir
Henry Grey, eldest son of the said John Grey of Howick, and
ancestor of the present Earl Grey. In about 1908 East Learmouth
was sold to Mr. William Davidson and West Learmouth to Mr.
Thomas Brown.
After that the same family Moore has farmed the land of
West Learmouth for over 100 years and the present custodian is
Bob Moore, who lives in the farmhouse with his wife Jasmin and
their four children. We have visited both places in 2005-2006. The
farms of East and West Learmouth are in an area of natural beauty
and considered one of the country last undiscovered tourist
destinations (Illus. 3).
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According to the records of the landowners of the
Learmouth villages, the people named Learmouth were undertenants.
Both villages are not large but consist of a few houses and
farms. It would therefore be reasonable to conclude that they were
probably relatives and had a common ancestor.
The roots of surname Learmonth and the village of
Learmouth.
How did the name evolve and where did it come from?
There are various general categories or types of personal bynames
and different Scottish cultures had preferences for using different
ones, as indeed did different classes of people. Bynames can be
categorized as:
Locative - toponymic, territorial, topographic.
Relational - patronymic, metronymic, matronymic.
Official; occupational.
Descriptive - nickname, personal attributes.
The earliest spelling Leuremue/Leirmue of the Learmonth
surname and place name can be divided into two parts as (Leure
and mue) and later as (Leir and mouth). Both parts fitting well
together to classify both names as topographic.
It is necessary to consider the evolution of the English
language when looking at the roots of the early spelling of the
surname in Old English.
The words for the first root could be said to be leafer,
léoflic, léoht, léohtlic, léwer, líeht, líðelic. All of these could be
interpreted as light, rushes in the sense of growing profusely in the
river. The second root “mue” could be “mawe” and “muoa” -
mouth of the river. However this search showed that there are no
roots for Leure that could be pronounced as they are written
according to the customary / tradition of the Old English language.
At the same time there are words that are very close to ‘Leure’ and
‘mue’ by sound that are found in the Old French language: luire –
shine, lueure – light, brightness, glistering; lueux - light, shining,
glittering, glistering; lever/ levier – light, to raise. The second root
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“mue” has the meaning: to change, alter, transform, transfigure,
and shift [30] a combination of the two words could mean a
transformation or shifting something that looks shining and
glistering so for example “clean water” that is shifting/moving to
water. As a result we would interpret Leuremue: (Leure and mue)
as the merging of two waters or merging of two rivers. It is
therefore certain that the name Leuremue came from the Old
French language.
The spelling and meaning of the Learmouth village in the
XVII century was Leirmouth – mouth of the river, that is quite
consistent with an earlier spelling and meaning Leuremue in old
French. Moreover the first root Leir (other spelling see below) kept
its sound since it was found in France (Europe) centuries ago.
Analysis of the records where the Learmonth surname was
registered in the XII-XXI centuries shows that the evolution of the
spelling of the village of Learmouth was approximately parallel
with that of the evolution of Learmonth (see above).
The second root ‘mouth’ was substituted with ‘month’ in the
surname. This was a very common occurrence in English / Scottish
surnames.
It is well known that many Scottish surnames originated
from France, Scandinavia and other countries in Europe. Today we
have many more sources of information that were not available to
earlier historians. If we therefore look at the first root Luere or
using a French linguistic terminology we can say the phoneme
‘Leur’ which has multiple spellings as Leur, Leyre, Leire, Leira,
Leiro, Lejre, Loire. They all sound identical.
According to the monograph of the French researcher
Antoine Beauvois [31] the phoneme Leur/ Leir has been a source
of place names used over the centuries all over Europe. It is worth
noting that the diphthong ‘lei’ instead of ‘li’ was found in Latin
manuscripts before III century BC and had a similar sense to
‘Leir’.
Phoneme ‘Leir‘ and its multiple spellings are connected to
sources that were vitally important to people and covers the assets
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connected to water, or with resources that allow water to come into
areas or dwelling places. In France the phoneme ‘Leir’ was defined
as ‘flowing water’, ‘moving water’, ‘clear water’, or even a
‘vivifying force’. The modern French word for water is ‘l’eau’,
which is a consonant with ‘Leure/Leir’. The phoneme ‘Leir’
acquired the meaning of ‘clay or mud’ in northern lands located
around the area of modern Denmark, Norway, Sweden and
Iceland. The clay being a vital material for the construction of
houses.
Beauvois presented data that made him believe that the
phoneme ‘leir’ is much older than its supposed Celtic origin
probably before 800BC, which means that it is at least pre-Celtic.
The presence of the tautology in the name confirms this point. For
example the hydronyme Leyrenne or Leirenne becomes part of the
name Sain-Dizier-Leyrenne. Leirenne is Leir-Renne, the name
Renne is obviously the Celtic word “renoc”. The name of River
Rhine (in German) also comes from the Celtic word renoc,
meaning “raging flow”. So Leir-Renne means “raging flow” which
is pure tautology. It would therefore seem that the Celts who came
after these ancient people gave or added the name “renoc” for
“running water” to ‘leir’ which made the name Leyrenne. The
River Eyrieux, which was originally called Leyrieux, a tributary of
the River Rhone, is a good example of tautology. The phoneme
‘Leyre’ or ‘leir’ means “flowing / running water”; ‘rieux’ could be
interpreted as the Latin ‘rieu; rivu: ruisseau’ (French) means
“stream” and Leyrieux may also be interpreted as “a stream of
flowing water” being pure tautology.
Julius Ceasar in his ‘Commentaries on the war of the
Gauls’ (S.Dosson Editor) Latinized the vocabulary of these
primitive people and changed the Loire to Liger / Ligerem. The
Loir River was the Leiro in the XI century [32] the name of this
river being finally changed to the Loire. The Celts then seem to
have adopted the word ‘leir’ giving it to their powerful God Leir.
This therefore means that the name Leuremue as recorded
in 1117 could be considered a French name which most likely
meant ’flowing / running water merging or changing. The first root
- 21 -

‘Leure/Leir’ has a pre-Celtic origin, probably as early as 800 BC.
How did the first French root ‘Leure’ appear in the British
Isles?
This is examined in the literature regarding the origin of
British and Scottish surnames. Some authors are inclined to
interpret ‘Leure’ as ‘lever’ from Old English lefr-muth Leversraouth,
i.e. mouth of the river overgrown with levers or livers, a
species of yellow flag.
Or possibly the first element is the Old English Lfofheye, a
personal name, hence 'Leofhere's mouth." There is the place name
Levermere in Suffolk recorded in 1050 as Leuuremer [33] Other
authors have the opinion that the name means the lake where
rushes grew, from the pre 7th century Olde English 'laefor-mere'.
Rushes were widely used for domestic situations, including roofing
and flooring, being effectively the only form of 'carpet' known in
the medieval period. However, the origin of the name Laverick is
most probably a personal Anglo-Saxon name Leofric [34].
There is a person William Leurie in the same source [35]
who was a subject of debates in literature. His name was also
spelled as William Leuric in many records. William Leurie was
written without the territorial prefix and was called a Norman
patriarch as he was a tenant in chief in Gloucestershire,
Oxfordshire, Berkshire, and Essex according to the Domesday
records of 1080-1086. This William Leuric, son of Richard, was
also recorded as a freeman in Edward the Confessor times [36].
There is nevertheless some confusion because the spelling William
Lueric was a combination of the English name William and Anglo-
Saxon name Leuric. However this could be explained if this
William Leurie was of Norman origin, therefore, his name could
be French. The surname Leurie appears in many early French
records [37] This French surname Leurie is also found in Scottish
records: One is tempted to take Leurie for the French phonetic
form of ‘Leureux’, which obviously leads to a French version of
the Leurie name origin [38]. We found some strange connections
- 22 -
between William Leurie and a person with the Anglo-Saxon name
Osgot. William Leurie received many lands from someone called
Osgot probably before 1080 when the Doomsday records were
started to be collected. Then we found an Osegot de Leirmue (de
Learmouth) dated 1257 in Northumberland [29]. We did not find
any connection between William Leurie and Osgot.
The Leurie surname must have originated in France with
the phoneme ‘Leur’. ‘There are at least 300 hydronyms and
toponyms with the phoneme ‘Leur /Lier’ in France. For example
the village of Leure, part of the port La Havre, inhabited since at
least the XI century; Abbey Notre-Dame de Lyre (La Vieille-Lyre,
Eure), found in 1045 AD; Abbey de La Croix-Saint-Leufroy (La
Croix-Saint Leufroy, Eure); Saint Fortunat sur Eyrieux, Reyrieux,
Leyrieu (all in Burgundy, France).
As a result, we cannot exclude the possibility that the first
root of the ancient Leuremue name was originally from a person
with the name Leurie, or a name with a similar sound. We consider
this hypothesis in the next section.
French Origins.
We now start at the beginning or at a point in time
approximately a thousand years ago with what we believe to be the
Learmonth French origins.
Two main points are at the basis of our hypothesis: a
French origin of a surname and the Learmonth Coat of Arms
known from XV century: ‘Or on a chevron, sable, three mascles
voided of the first’.
At some point before the year AD1000, a family with the
name Luyrieux became established in Burgundy, France (Illus. 4).
The existence of the name in the location of Saint Fortunat sur
Eyrieux, Reyrieux, Leyrieu and other places with a root
‘Leur/Leir’ means that we can be reasonably certain that the
Luyrieux family name originated from some place/land/river name
so it is of a territorial origin. Luyrieux would probably have a
general meaning of owning of the Luyr or “being bright” that
- 23 -

could be also ‘clean water’. This family name has a number of
recorded spellings from the year 1100: Luyrieux, Luirieu,
Liurieux, Luyrieu, Lurieux Luyrieu, and Luirieux. Alard Luyrieux
was alive in the year 1100 and died after 1160. The Lyurieux
family has a Coat of Arms that has the same basic motive (heraldic
symbols) and colour that would come to be contained in the
Learmonth Coat of Arms: ‘Or, chevron sable’ (Illus. 5) [39].
The Luyrieux family owned Thol Castle (which means high
on the hill) for many years. The exact date of its construction is not
known but it could be dated about the year 1200 (Illus. 6). This
map illustrates the wealth and the areas owned by this Luyrieux
family and the location in eastern France (Illus. 4).
- 24 -
- 25 -

originally by walls and towers - is set in a monumental, romantic
park dominating the Canavese plains. The Masino Castle is a place
where the original Luyrieux Coat of Arms is preserved in our time
[]
(Illus.7).
In 1449, Margarita de Luyrieux married Ludovicus
Valperga from the Valperga di Masino family. Valperga di Masino
was a Turin local dynasty whose fortune came from the hemp
fields that once covered this fertile plain. For ten centuries the
residence of the Valperga Counts, Masino castle - surrounded
- 26 -
In ancient times, the younger sons of these types of
aristocratic families often decided to seek their fortune and find
adventure in foreign lands. We, of course, cannot be certain that a
member of this Luyrieux family was our early French ancestor. It
is also possible that William Leurie, son of Richard, a Norman
patriarch, could have been a member of this family as his name
‘Leurie” could be spelt as Luirieu which is one of the recorded
spellings of Luyrieux. Both names had a similar meaning ‘bright’
‘clear water’ or ‘glistering’ or perhaps ‘fresh clear running water’.
Therefore the surname Learmonth is of French origin and
- 27 -

the name Luyrieux has a connection to it as both have the same
meaning. Also the Coats of Arms of these families have the same
basic motive.
Luyrieux in England.
A member of the Luyrieux family, or someone connected to
them, arrived in England probably in about the year 1042 because
of Edward the Confessor becoming King of England. For his own
protection, Edward had lived in the French court in Rouen from
being a child. When he became the English King, he set sail from
France with forty shiploads of men and supplies. He had advisers,
monks and craftsmen of all kinds, including soldiers, for
protection. He believed that Saxon England was a backward
country with none of the culture or refinements of France, so he
brought them with him. He also believed that without military
protection he and his entourage would be murdered in their beds.
By the year 1050 Edward was settled in his Kingdom and
had proved himself to be an intelligent and hard working monarch.
He did not trust his Scottish neighbour Macbeth so he
decided to support Malcolm, who was the rightful King of
Scotland, in his war against this tyrant. Edward therefore sent some
of his senior soldiers to fight for Malcolm with the promise of land
and dignitaries when the job was done.
In the year 1057 Macbeth had been defeated and Malcolm
III was now the King thanks to the support of Edward and
Malcolm’s uncle Siward the Earl of Northumbria.
Malcolm then held a Parliament or a General Council in
Forfar Castle to decide how the country was to be governed and
organized, and to reward his supporters. We believe that a person,
probably a Knight, with the name sounding like Luyrieux but spelt
by the recorder as Luirie/ Leurie, received a land grant in
Northumbria close to the Scottish Borders in payment for his
support. There is a burn or stream illustrated on the old map
(Illus.2) that flowed into the River Tweed near Cornhill. This is
- 28 -
where a settlement called Leuremue was founded which has the
modern name of Learmouth.
It is believed that the meaning of the name Leuremue was
misunderstood. The etymology of a first root ‘Leur’ fits well with
the name Luirie/ Leurie which means ‘glistering’,‘bright’ (‘running
clear water’) Therefore the meaning of Leuremue / Learmouth /
Learmonth, according to our hypothesis is the merging of two
waters.
Knighthood.
It would be reasonable for us to believe that Luyrieux was a
soldier of some standing, a Knight originally in the service of
Edward the Confessor. Knights were warriors in Europe from
about 900 AD to 1500 AD and there was a special class of knight
whose duty it was to protect the Church. One of the symbols of
knighthood was their armour together with a symbol necessary to
identify the knight as to who he was on the battlefield
[].
In the beginning, two metals (gold and silver), five colours
(red, black, blue, green and purple) and two furs (vair and ermine)
were used as the base for these symbols. A knight also needed a
shield to hold in front of him during battle. Shields were made of
either wood or metal and were decorated with their family emblem
or crest and the family motto.
The Learmonth Coat of Arms: Or, on a Chevron Sable
three mascles of the first, could be considered as an early type as it
has a very simple symbol and the colours gold and black are
associated with the beginning of knight's heraldry
[].
We believe that the design of the Learmonth Arms was
taken from the Luyrieux family Crest because there was a family
connection. The three diamonds (muscles) over the chevron were
awarded to Leuremue for some special talent, possibly a particular
tactic of fighting.
The Scottish-English families used the Arms over the
- 29 -

centuries. The first official register of the Learmonth Arms was in
1672 at the Court of the Lord Lyon, the last one being in 1968.
However, the original Leirmonth Arms were known as early as
13th century. The Motto: Spero - I Hope.
The predominance of the colour gold in Coat of Arms
symbolizes ‘Generosity and Elevation of Mind’ and also reflects
the hopes and aspirations of the bearer [;
].
According to Alexander Nisbet, English heraldry is derived
from French heraldry. The chevron, anciently, as it appears on old
seals and monuments, reached from the base to the top of the
escutcheon [40]. This type of chevron is the oldest (1509, 1511
AD) and can be found on the Leirmonth Arms in Pluscarden
Benedictine Abbey, Elgin, Scotland and in the Town Hall Foyer,
St. Andrews, Fife, Scotland. The same chevron is also present on
the Russian Lermontov Coat of Arms which is illustrated in
another chapter (Illus. 8). Our search of the early blazons
[] shows that there are very few ancient ones
with bearings with the ‘Or, a chevron sable’.
- 30 -
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10. “Towns and townspeople in the fifteenth century” by John A.
F. Thomson. Published by Alan Sutton, 1988.
- 31 -

11. “The family of Brocas of Beaurepaire and Roche court:
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16. Calendar of the Patent rolls preserved in the Public Record
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.
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54.
20. “Calendar of Entries in the Papal Registers Relating to Great
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- 32 -
William Henry Bliss, Archivio vaticano. Irish Manuscripts
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Eyre and Spottiswoode, 1978, v. 15, p. 946
21. “An essay towards a topographical history of the county of
Norfolk” by Francis Blomefield, Charles Parkin. Published 1809,
p. 290.
22. “Report on the Manuscripts of Colonel David Milne Home of
Wedderburn Castle, N. B.” by Great Britain. Royal Commission
on Historical Manuscripts, David Milne Home Published and
Printed for H. M. Stationery off., by Mackie, 1902, p. 33.
23. “The New England Historical and Genealogical Register” by
New England Historic Genealogical Society, Henry Fitz-Gilbert
Waters. Published by New England Historic Genealogical Society,
v. 56, 1902, p. 191.
24. “Transcript of Sussex Wills”, v. IV. Racton to Yapton by R.
Garraway Rice, F.S.A & edited by Walter H. Godfrey, F.S.A.
published by Sussex Record Society in 1940, page 309.
25. “The medieval bishops of Dunblane and their church” by
James Hutchison Cockburn. Published by Published for the
Society of Friends of Dunblane Cathedral by Oliver and Boyd,
1959, p. 69, 188.
26. Charters of the Abbey of Crosraguel By Crosraguel Abbey.
Charters of the Abbey of Crosraguel. Published by Printed for the
Ayrshire and Galloway Archæological Association, 1886.
27. “Report on the Manuscripts of Colonel David Milne Home of
Wedderburn Castle, N. B.” by Great Britain. Royal Commission
on Historical Manuscripts, David Milne Home Published and
Printed for H. M. Stationery off., by Mackie, 1902, page 31.
Original from the University of Michigan. Digitized Jul 28, 2006.
28. The Great Rolls of the Pipe for the twenty-third year of the
Reign of King Henry the Second, AD1176-1177; “The
Publications of the Pipe Roll Society” by Pipe Roll Society (Great
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29. “The Place-names of Northumberland and Durham” by Allen
Mawer, M.A., Cambridge at the University Press, 1920; “Acta
facultatis artium Universitatis Sanctiandree, 1413-1588” edited by
- 33 -

Annie I. Dunlop. Published by Published for the University of St.
Andrews by Oliver & Boyd, 1964, p. 239; “Northumbrian pleas
from De Banco rolls 1- (1- Edward I)” by Great Britain. Court of
Common Pleas, Alexander Hamilton Thompson. Court records,
1950. p. 29; “Henry VIII” by Edward Hall, Charles Whibley
Published by T.C. & E.C. Jack, 1904, p. 323.
30. “A dictionarie of the French and English tongues, de Randal
Cotgrave, 1611
.
31. “Research on the geographical field. The derivatives and
compounds of an international phoneme, Leir, Leira, Leiro, leire,
Leyre, Leure, Lejre and the Loire” by F. H. A. Beauvois, published
by Bordeaux – Pessac, Saint Paul-Fontaudin, 1967.
32. ‘Saga of Olaf Haraldson’ by Snorre Sturlasson (1117 – 1241),
‘Christiana’ translated by Samuel Laing, London, 1853.
33. “Codex diplomaticus aevi saxonici” by John Mitchell Kemble.
Contributor Samuel Bentley, S. & J. Bentley, Wilson, and Fley.
Published by Sumptibus Societatis, 1846, p. 245.
34. “Patronymica Britannica: A Dictionary of the Family Names of
the United Kingdom” by Mark Antony Lower. Published by J.R.
Smith, 1860.
35. “Patronymica Britannica: A Dictionary of the Family Names
of the United Kingdom” by Mark Antony Lower. Published by
J.R. Smith, 1860, p. 201.
36. “Transactions at the Annual Meeting, held at Cheltenham”,
1879.
37. “Archives historiques de la Saintonge et de l'Aunis” by Société
des archives historiques de la Saintonge et de l'Aunis. Published by
Z. Mortreuil, 1902, p. 78.
38. “Scottish Record Society Register of Edinburgh Apprentices,
1666-1700” edited by Charles B. Boog Watson, Edinburgh, 1929.
39. “European Royl Houses. Royal House of Italy. House of
Savoy”, General Editor Guy Stair Sainty, 2005: Michel Francou
“Armorial historique des Archevêques de Lyon”, 2002; “Famiglie
Nobili e Titolate della Monarchia di Savoia”, by Alessandro
Franchi-Verney, Armerista delle, Torino, 1873; “Armorial et
- 34 -
Nobiliaire de l'ancien Duché de Savoie, a cura di Amédée de Foras
e altri”, DVD Mémoire et Documents, 2006;
.
40. “A System of Heraldry by Alexander Nisbet, published 1816,
v. I, p. 148.
Early Learmonths.
The early Learmonths made a historical impact on several
well-known Scottish Clans. We are presenting just a few examples
below.
The name Learmonth was found in the MacDuff Clan
Genealogy: Line of the Descent of William McKinley, the
Twenty-Fifth President of the United States (MacDuff, Thane of
Fife, compiled by Edward A. Claypool, a Chicago genealogist,
Chicago, USA, 1897, p.p. 12, 26). William MacIntosh, second son
of Shaw (or Shaw Oig, i.e., the younger) married Beatrix
Learmonth in c. 1150-1221. William is said to have resided at the
Castle of Inverness with the other sons and grandsons of Shaw
(Oig), who defended it on numerous occasions against the
marauding bands from the West. Some of them added considerably
to the possessions of the family, which soon took firm root in the
North. William MacIntosh was the 10th descendant from Duncan
Macduff (1000-1060). Duncan Macduff or Maormor Gaelic maor,
steward; mor, great, or great steward of Fife, the celebrated Thane
of Shakespeare, was the greatest chief of those who laboured to
restore Malcom Cean-mor or King Malcolm III to his throne,
which had been usurped by Macbeth. Macduff slew Macbeth at
Lumphanan in Aberdeenshire, Scotland on 5th December 1056.
Learmonth and Macduff participated in the battle, helping
Malcolm Cean-mor to gain power William Shaw and Bessie or
Beatrix Learmonth had a son, Shaw Mackintosh (1210-1265), who
was known as Shaw MacWilliam. In 1230 Shaw married Helena
William, the daughter of William the Thane of Calder. Shaw
acquired the lands of Meikle and Geddes, also the lands and castle
- 35 -

of Rait on the River Nairn. In 1236 he acquired a lease for
Rothiemurchus in Strathsprey from Andrew, Bishop of Moray,
from which the more common name of Shaw of Rothiemurchus
emerged. The lands of Rothiemurchus had been granted by King
Alexander II to Andrew, Bishop of Moray in 1226. The
descendants of Shaw would hold Rothiemurchus for over a
hundred years. Shaw was named Fourth Chief of Mackintosh upon
the death of his uncle, Ferquharson. The result of the marriage
between William Mackintosh and Beatrix Learmonth gave rise to
the following Scottish families: MacDuff, Shaw, Macintosh,
Farquharson, and MacKinlay. The roots of William McKinley, the
twenty fifth President of the United States, come directly from the
union of the Mackintosh and Learmonth families. William
McKinley the 25 th President (1897-1901), born in Ohio, was a
descendant of a farmer from Conagher, near Ballymoney, County
Antrim. He was proud of his ancestry and addressed one of the
national Scotch-Irish Congresses held in the late 19th century. His
second term as President was cut short by an assassin's bullet.
Thomas Rhymer of Ereldoune Erceldoune (also spelled
Ercildoune - presently Earlston) or Thomas Learmonth
(1220-1297).
Illustration 9.
Upper image: the romantic image of Thomas Rhymer.
Lower image: a map of Birckshire, 1654
(Atlas of Scotland by Joan Blue).
- 36 -
- 37 -

There are many books and written records which refer to
Thomas and for that reason we can be certain that he did exist.
Erceldoune Thomas also called the Rhymer and Learmont, seer
and poet, occupies much the same position in Scottish popular
folklore as does Merlin in that of England, but with some historical
foundation. His actual existence and approximate date can be fixed
by contemporary documents.
The name of' Thomas Rimor de Ercildun, with four others,
is appended as witness to a deed whereby Petrus de Haga de
Bemersvde agreed to pay half a stone of wax annually to the Abbot
of Melrose for the chapel of St. Cuthbert at Old Melrose (Liber de
Melros, Bannatyne Club, 1298). The document is undated, but the
Petrus de Hags, cannot be he who witnessed the signature of
Richard de Mooresville, constable of Scotland, about 1170 (Liber
S. Marie de Dryburgh, Bannatyne, Club, 1847, p. 269), and must
be identified with the person of that name who lived about 1220)
(ib.pp.94-6), as proof the four witnesses mentioned above were
Oliver, Abbot of Dryburgh (c. 1250-68), and Hugh de Peresbv,
Viscount of Roxburgh, alive in 1281. In the cartulary of the Trinity
House of Soltra, preserved in the ‘Advocates Library’, Edinburgh,
is a deed conveying to that house all the lands held by inheritance
in Erceldoune by Thomas de Ercildoun filius et heres Thome
Rymour de Ercildoun. The date has been usually quoted 1294-
1299 (The Dictionary of National Biography, Founded in 1882 by
George Smith, edited by Lesley Stephen and Sir Sidney Lee From
the Earliest Times to 1900, volume VI, published since 1917 the
Oxford University Press and sold by The Waverley Book Co. Ltd.,
96-97 Farrington St., London, E.C.4, page 803).
We present a short account of his life and the myth that
gave him his name and reputation.
Thomas lived in the village of Ercildoune now called
Earlston, a village on the right bank of the river Leader which is
eight miles from the village of Learmouth (see above illustration).
The ruins of the keep of an ancient tower (illustrated below) which
are still there were originally known as The Rymers Castle and,
later, Learmonth Tower.
- 38 -
In the early days of the 13th century in Scotland, the ballad
or poem told stories and recorded history. Thomas was said to be
able to hold his audience spellbound. Lord and Lady, Knight and
knave, young and old, would hang on to every word, because
Thomas could only tell the truth, and many of his rhymes were
prophetic. He was born around 1220 and died about 1297;
prophecies only appeared in literary form in the 1400s when he
became a celebrated poet and prophet after his death. But while he
lived, he was famous too, because of the strange and fascinating
events that caused him to receive his amazing gifts. The story goes
that Thomas was walking in Huntly Burn near the Eildon Hills,
close to his home in Ercildoune one fine May morning, when he
heard a horse in the distance. As it came closer, he saw that the
rider was a very beautiful lady with golden hair and jewels
- 39 -

sparkling over her spring green cloak. She stopped and introduced
herself as the Queen of the Underworld. He begged her for a kiss
and it was that which changed his life forever. She took the willing
Thomas with her back to the Underworld. It was there that he was
to learn that life consists of three paths. The first is desert flat, wide
and straight, as far as the eye can see. This path has an unhappy
and fruitless ending. The second path is narrow, winding and
treacherous with thorny hedges; this is the path of righteousness
with a good ending. The third path is very green and lush with
foliage and vegetation meandering into a forest or glade. This is
the path to the Underworld. Do not utter a word whilst passing
down this way or you will stay forever. The Queen gave Thomas
an apple from a perfectly laden tree which meant he would be
graced with the gift of truth, foresight and poetry. He was
transformed into a nobleman, as with the gift of truth a man is
indeed noble. He was given an enchanted harp to be used as the
link between this world and the Underworld showing its timeless
mystical qualities. With this and all his other gifts, he became a
wise Laird. When he returned to Ercildoune, he found that he had
been away for seven years, although it had seemed to him to have
been only an hour or so.
Thomas became Laird of the Castle of Ercildoune and
quickly established himself as a prophet. He predicted the death of
King Alexander III in a fall from his horse in 1286. This
prediction was made to The Earl of March in Dumbar Castle on the
day before the accident happened. He also predicted the union of
the Scottish and English Crowns, the Battle of Bannockburn and
the Jacobite uprisings. He wrote poetry and his advice and wisdom
were sort by all. The story goes that he disappeared in about 1297
when he was called back to the Underworld by two white deer or
forest children who came to take their brother back home and he
was never seen again.
This story is of course the kind of myth that the people of
those days believed. Nevertheless, Thomas was regarded even in
- 40 -
his own time as important, remarkable and special as he has been
called the Scottish Merlin and illustrations show him with a long
white beard, a tall hat and a long cloak. Some accounts record that
Thomas had a son. However there is no record of his larger family
but they most certainly did exist and, as already stated, had been in
this part of Scotland for several hundred years before he was born.
Many modern contemporary historians are considering the direct
connection of Thomas Rhymer with the Learmonth Clan through
paternal or maternal lines, and/or through some other relatives.
It has only been possible to relate the basic information on
Thomas Rhymer. More romantic stories that connect Thomas
Learmont’s prophecy with the Scottish national hero William
Wallace, with the dramatic events in the Fyvie Castle, with the
Gight Castle and the fate of the great British Poet Lord Byron and
much more details can be found in the following publications:
“Learmonths-Lermontovs : origin & history of the surname and
families, 1057-2007” : Russia & Great Britain by Tatiana
Molchanova & Rex Learmonth.” (National Library of Scotland:
HB6.209.1.40); “Minstrelsy of the Scottish Border by Sir Walter
Scott (1803); “The romance and prophecies of Thomas of
Erceldoune”, printed from five MSS with illustrations from the
prophetic literature of the 15th and 16th centuries” by Thomas,
James Augustus Henry Murray, published by N. Trübner for the
Early English Text Society, 1875.
During our investigations, we came across the following
interesting information in Old Rolls, which gives details relating to
early family members. Following are translations from Latin /
Norman French (“Rotuli de libertate ac de misis et Praesttitis,
Regnante Johanne”. Cura T. Duffus Hardy, London, 1844, pages:
52, 72, 95) Translation from page 52, date 1203 AD: The land
given: The King etc. to G. son of Peter etc. We command that you
give without delay, to the inheritor Gerard de Leheramont, 25
pounds for land from the land of Simon de Haverech, with all its
wheat and farm stock and whatever will come forth from it: and if
the aforesaid land is not worth 25 pounds, that you make this
- 41 -

known to us by default. Given by myself at Montefort, 25th July.
Translation of the page 72, date 1203 AD. The fief being granted
anew it is commanded that G. son of Peter assign to Gerard de
Leiramund 25 pounds sterling per annum in the matter of the fief
to the Exchequer, and these things shall be done before the
secretary (notary?), and by the time of their middle age, [the matter
of ] his fief shall be done by the heir from the Exchequer of the
former St. Michaels.
Translation of the page 95, date 1204 AD: “ The King etc.
for your support (prayers?) etc. We [at first told you that] without
delay you make over to the heir Ger. De Leermut in full holding of
the whole land which belonged to Gaufrey son of Hamois and
Netestedel, who is in Britain (Brittany?) with our enemies, with all
their farm stock, land and chattels, and make known to us what
stock may be on that land, and what chattels, and how much the
land itself may be worth with and without the stock, and how much
it can be valued [in future]. Given etc.”
According to this information King John gave the order to
his Justiciar' Geoffrey Fitz Peter who was 1st Earl of Essex, (Piers
de Lutegareshale, b. ca. 1162, d. 1213) to give the lands to Gerald
Leiramont in full holding. These lands belonged originally to
Gaufrey (Geoffrey) son of Hamois (Havoise?) and Gerald
Leiramont was the heir. They were vast lands with farm, chattels,
and stocks, so Leiramont became a wealthy laird.
In 1330 AD Adam Lethermouth was groom to King
Edward III (Calendar of memoranda rolls (Exchequer) preserved in
the Public Record Office: Michaelmas 1326-Michaelmas 1327.
London, H.M.S.O., 1968, pages 382-385, 2271: xxiv) (The King’s
groom was an honorary title and did not mean that he looked after
the King’s horses). This information indicates that these people
held high positions and were close to the English Court.
- 42 -
The Learmonths of Fife.
In about the year 1400, an individual named Learmonth
(Christian name not known) settled in St Andrews, Fife.
Documents say that he was the Laird of Ersiltoun (Earlston) in the
Merse (Genealogical Collection of Sir Robert Douglas of
Glenbervie).
We cannot be sure why he went to live in St Andrews but it
is believed that Henry Wardlaw (1368-1440) may have persuaded
him to become one of his right hand men as he was about to
become Bishop of St Andrews and the founder of the town’s
university.
Henry Wardlaw was born into a wealthy family, and
- 43 -

educated at the Universities of Oxford and Paris. He was appointed
Bishop of St Andrews in 1403. The future James I (1394 - 1437) as
a boy was placed in his care at St Andrews Castle by Robert III
(c.1340 - 1406). He remained a trusted advisor to James, crowning
him at Scone on the 21st May 1420 but his most notable
achievement was the foundation of St Andrews University (1411)
which was modelled on the university in Paris (confirmed by Pope
Benedict in 1413). He naturally became its first Chancellor. He
was buried in St Andrews Cathedral in 1440
.
Before the University was established in 1413 the learning
and knowledge of the period was entirely confined to the clergy.
The nobles were so utterly ignorant that up until the accession of
the Stuarts to the throne, it was impossible to find a single baron
who could sign his name (“History of the county of Fife, from the
earliest period to the present time” by John M Leighton, Glasgow,
J. Swan, 1840, p. 62).
But even after 1413, education in Scotland was by no
means widespread. Even the intellectual standard of those who
served the parishes was poor, and those who lived in the country
spent as much time farming their glebes as their parishioners.
The Royal Burgh of St Andrews (or King's Burgh) had no
superior above them except the King. This was the highest status
that could be conferred on a town. Royal Burghs had a monopoly
on foreign trade. Thus in 1466 the privilege of importing and
exporting merchandise was confined to freemen, Burgesses and
their factors. Ships were directed to trade with the King's free
burghs, there to pay the customs, and to receive their cocquets or
custom-house seals. They also had more representation in
Parliament than non-royal burghs and were usually seaports or had
some close connection with royalty.
The harbour of St Andrews was not really suitable for
imports or exports, and the Exchequer Rolls show that the wine
and viands required for the supply of the cathedral and the bishop’s
castle were landed either at Dundee or Inverkeithing, and carried
overland to their destinations. The principal exports were wool and
- 44 -
skins which were shipped from a number of seaports in Fife. The
customs exacted from exports and paid into the Royal Exchequer
were levied by prominent Burgesses, who usually held civic
offices either as Provosts or Bailies. In 1405, an important change
was made by granting the whole of the customs of St Andrews to
Bishop Henry Wardlaw, together with the cocket seal and the right
to appoint custumars. After that date the bishop’s chamberlain was
the official collector of customs (“Fife Pictorial and Historical” by
A. H. Millar, 1895, p. 31). Therefore, growth and the development
of St Andrews were controlled by ecclesiastical power and despite
its inconvenient seaport, St Andrews was the ecclesiastical capital
of Scotland.
The first public record of the name Learmonth in Fife, that
we have found, is dated 1429. George de Lermonth (Lermuth), of
noble race, first holding church of Kilmany (Cupar, Fife,
Scotland), was a priest in the St Andrews diocese. He was
educated at Rome, graduated in 1429 MA (Master of Arts).
Formerly Pope made a special grace to George de Lermuth, priest,
St Andrews diocese, M.A., of parish church of Newton of said
diocese (“Scottish History Society” by Scottish History Society.
Published by Printed for the Society by T. and A. Constable, 1964,
p. 35, 37. Original from the University of Michigan, Digitized Jun
16, 2008). There is no information about his relatives and
descendants. The only indication that he related to the Learmonth’s
family in Fife is his Christian name, George in 1478 (see below).
The next public record of the name Learmonth in Fife was
dated 1461: John Learmonth, son of the Learmonth who came
from Earlston was appointed to the high office of Keeper of the
Coquet Seal under the charter of Bishop Kennedy being the official
who would grant certificates under the seal and to whom the
customs would be paid (Charter by Bishop Kennedy; St. Salvators
Writs). John would have been an educated man being able to read
law books and to hold the records in Latin. In the year 1473, John
Learmonth was elected the Provost of St Andrews and in
accordance with the tradition of those days only Burgesses (people
of status who lived in the burgh) were allowed a voice in public
- 45 -

affairs and the basic qualification for admission as a Burgess was
the holding in fee of at least one toft of land within the Burgh. John
Learmonth being a great customer would have owned lands in the
parish. It is believed that by 1473 John had married an heir, Janet
de Darsie, who owned Lands at the Dairsie Parish. A Dairsie
village was, and still is, situated of the same name about five miles
from St Andrews. Therefore John Learmonth had established
himself as a person of considerable standing within the community
of St Andrews. John Learmonth was the first member of the
family to become the Provost (Chief Magistrate) of St Andrews
(1473-1474). He was also regarded as a powerful man being
connected to the ecclesiastical power of Archbishop Graham
(1465-1478).
In the early days of the Burgh the Chief Magistrate was
known as the Alderman, the term Prepositi being applied to the
Burgh Bailies. In about 1460, however, Latin documents refer to
the Chief Magistrate as Prepositus and the term Provost came into
use shortly after. On admission, the ordinary Burgess had to pay a
fee of 13 shillings and 4 pence (Scots) but also provide a banquet.
Alderman (Provost) and Bailies had to be lele and of good fame.
The duties of the Provost and Magistrate were wide and indeed
covered every aspect of the working, spiritual and recreational life
of the citizens.
Defence: the defence of the Burgh was of prime
importance. One of the Provost’s duties was to lead the citizens
into battle and law enforcement: from the earliest days of the
Burgh, Alderman, Provost and Bailies were responsible for law
enforcement, though serious crimes might be remitted to a visiting
Judge. Punishments were severe and heretics and witches were
burned at the stake and burnt to ashes, while minor crimes were
punishable by ducking on the cuckstool or an hour or two in the
stocks or branks, the latter specially reserved for nagging wives
and gossips ().
Provost and Magistrates were much concerned with trade and the
operation of the market and sometimes severe penalties were
imposed on traders who displayed shoddy goods or gave short
measure. James I at the same time granted a Charter to the Burgh,
which was in the shape of a mandate to the Provost and Bailies,
directed that all goods attempted to be bought or sold contrary to
the Charters, within the shire, and without the bounds of the Burgh,
should be confiscated for the King's use
().
Elections: Before the year 1469 the Provosts and Bailies of
the Royal Burghs were popularly elected, by the whole body of
Burgesses. An act of 1469 (King James III and Parliament)
decreed that the old Council should choose the new and that the
old and new should combine in the election of officials. By this act
in 1495 popular election had been suppressed
().
The acts of 1469 and 1495 resulted in the ruling of St
Andrews by an oligarchy, and for the next 135 years, the affairs of
the Burgh were exclusively controlled by members of the eminent
Learmonth family (Illus. 12).
Trade: the trade history of the free burghs is very important.
- 46 -
- 47 -

Lermonths - Provosts of St Andrews:
1473-1474 John Lermonth:
1483-1484 Robert Lermonth:
1494-1498 Robert Lermonth of Clatto:
1505-1521 Sir James Lermonth of Dairsie:
1525-1547 Sir Patrick Lermonth of Dairsie:
1548-1586 Sir Patrick Lermonth of Dairsie:
1588-1593 James Lermonth of Dairsie:
1595-1596 James Learmonth of Clatto & of Dairsie
1597-1601 William Learmonth of Clatto & of Dairsie
1602-1604 James Lermonth of Dairsie
1607-1609 Sir John Learmonth of Balcomie
In 1474 St Andrews was under pressure from ecclesiastic
power. The Metropolitan Church collected customs from all over
the See and was wealthy and flourishing, but the 12,000
inhabitants were poor by comparison. In the XV
- 48 -
century there was neither import nor export trade to any great
extent. The fishing industry was the only business but this was not
sufficient to support the inhabitants (“Fife Pictorial and
Historical” by A. H. Millar, 1895, p. 315).
Despite the honour that Archbishop Graham (1465-1478)
had brought to his country, his life was a miserable one. He had
paid bribes to the officials in Rome, who had assisted him, and in
1478 William Schevez, then Archdeacon, brought charges of
heresy and simony against him. He was deposed and imprisoned,
first in the Monastery of Inchcolm, and later in Loch Leven Castle.
He died, being buried at St Serfs Isle. The ambitious William
Schevez, protégé of King James III, succeeded as second
Archbishop, and apparently resided at the Castle. Hardly had he
been appointed than he dashed into a controversy with Robert
Blackadder, Archbishop of Glasgow, on a point of etiquette as to
precedence. The dispute became so violent that it had to be
submitted to His Holiness Pope Innocent VIII who gave
precedence to St Andrews. The Castle of St Andrews had now
gained additional importance as the seat of the Primate, and the
Archbishops took a prominent part in political affairs, becoming
recognized as statesmen. King James III and his advisers acted to
reform the currency, to impose standard measures of weight and
volume, all to inspire greater confidence in Scottish commerce.
Domestic efficiency and commercial improvement enhanced
Scotland's influence abroad, and under James, Scotland came to
enjoy diplomatic importance. His relations with England were
much improved when in 1503 James married Margaret Tudor,
daughter of Henry VII. The craft Guilds of Bakers, Wrights and
Fleshers regulated standards of work, licensed apprentices and
disciplined craftsmen in the public interest. At a higher social and
financial level, there was one merchant Guild, organizing all the
overseas commerce of the town. Scottish exports were very
practical and showed the comparative poverty of the country. Salt
and salted fish, wool, linen, hides, leather and coal were the
products which found their way to the Netherlands, to Scandinavia
and the Baltic, to France and, most of all, to England. England was
- 49 -

the only country with which Scotland could trade overland, and the
biggest single Scottish export, live cattle, went there. In years to
come, trade with Europe diminished and trade with England
increased, and this dependence upon English custom had profound
political consequences. Meanwhile, the merchants prospered
visibly. They imported fine fabrics, scents, spices, jewels and
finely crafted metal, for sale to court and castle and, of course, for
themselves and their families. The merchants at this time were the
sophisticates of society, and all international contacts went through
them. The burghs became more cultured, more worldly wise and in
touch with new ideas and increasingly became influential in
national affairs (“Scotland. A Concise History”.
).
As a result of these changes, the prosperity of the
Learmonths in the County of Fife increased considerably.
John Learmonth, the second son of John Learmonth, Provost of St
Andrews (1473-1474), and a brother of Robert Learmonth, Provost
of St Andrews (1494-1498), was appointed a Bailie in 1476. On
the 20 th November 1481, he executed a charter of mortification and
founded a chaplaincy and a perpetual chaplain at the Altar of St
Duthocus in the parish of St Andrews in which his wife, Janet is
named. He inherited a house in South Street, St Andrews
belonging to Mr John Wood, Minister of St Andrews pre 1482
(Private request that was fulfilled by Diana Baptie, National
Library of Scotland, Edinburgh, 2003). John Learmonth then
became a Chaplain to Alexander Stewart, Archbishop of St
Andrews (1505-1513). The chaplain to the Archbishop who was of
the royal blood line was a very important position, particularly
having in mind that Alexander Stewart was a very young and
inexperienced Archbishop. The chaplain was the starting position
for the career of many prominent Scots. Thomas Wolsey, Cardinal
Archbishop of York (1515), started as a court chaplain in 1507. In
1509 he was made Royal Almoner and, effectively, Royal
Secretary. John Knox, a Protestant leader, was chaplain to King
- 50 -
James IV (1552). John Spottiswood (1565-1639), Archbishop of St
Andrews and historian of Scotland, was a chaplain of Ludowick,
Duke of Lennox in 1601 (;
;
http://www.bbc.co.uk/history>).
However, John Learmonth was somewhat unlucky as
chaplain because his young royal patron Alexander Stewart was
tragically killed in 1513 at the battle of Flodden Field he was only
twenty years old. However, John an educated man and a person of
taste which he demonstrated by the fact that he wrote a book
entitled “The Collection of Scottish Antiquities” was able to
overcome his setbacks (“The Martial Achievements of the Scots
Nation” by P. Abercromby, Edinburgh, 1711, v.1, p.161).
Prior George Learmonth OSB- Order of Saint Benedict
Prior George was the youngest son of John Learmonth, the
Provost of St Andrews (1473-1474). Most of the known facts
about his life and ecclesiastical career are detailed in “Pluscarden
Benedictines”, v. 102, Sept 1994, pp. 8-9.
George Learmonth was probably born around 1478,
graduated as a Master of Arts from the University of St Andrews in
1498, and maintained his links with the university while holding
benefices in St Andrews (1498-1503) and Fordoun in
Kincardineshire (1503-1509). Following the resignation of Robert
Harword he was nominated Prior of Pluscarden by James IV in
March 1509. As the late Abbot Mark Dilworth observed in
Pluscarden Benedictines 129 (Pentecost 2003 pp. 16-17). The
monastery enjoyed certain autonomy as neither the abbot or
chapter of Dunfermline Abbey were involved in Learmonth's
election. He held the office for twenty years, having taken the
monastic habit. Very little is recorded of his activities; presumably
his monastic life was quiet. However, it was not to last as he was
plucked from the cloister on 20th May 1529 when Clement VII
appointed him colleague and successor to Bishop Gavin Dunbar,
although George predeceased the Bishop of Aberdeen by dying on
- 51 -

18th March 1531. However, by that time a number of his nephews
and nieces had established themselves in positions of importance,
accruing benefits to their growing families (Pluscarden
Benedictines, # 134, Christmas 2004, pp. 8-9).
The Learmonth Coat of Arms carved in stone was found in
the Pluscarded Abbey of Benedictines, Elgin, Morayshire,
Scotland. Fr. Giles kindly sent few publications about Prior George
Learmond, picture and photo of his Coat of Arms in May, 2003
(personal communications).“Shield in the Chapter-House,
Pluscardin found during the excavations and alterations presently
in progress. Among the carved stones there is only one which is
heraldic, viz.:-A slab with a shield (8.5 inches in width at the top)
is bearing arms: On a chevron three mascles. Behind the shield is
a crosier” (Proceedings of the Society, 9th April 1900, p. 418)
(Illus. 13).
The close relationship of John Learmonth to ecclesiastic
power which was direct to the Archbishop of St Andrews and the
Royal family, together with the piety and the position of George
Learmonth, made a positive impact on the careers of future
generations of the family.
- 52 -
- 53 -

David Learmonth, eldest son of Robert Learmonth, Provost
of St Andrews (1494-1498), and nephew to John Learmonth,
became the chaplain to Alexander Archbishop of St Andrews, and
was a Canon of St Andrews Priory in 1491-1505 (“Reforming of
the Scottish Church” by. John Winram (c. 1492-1582). Therefore
by this period the Learmonths had moved ahead in their careers,
not only because they were energetic people but also because they
served the very powerful Church of Scotland. A charter was
granted to David Learmonth, his son James and his wife, by
Catherine Ramsay dated 20th April 1517 whereby they were to
continue living in the house in South Street which they had
repaired and adorned.
David Learmonth was elected the Provost of St Andrews in
1506 and held this position until 1521. He was also the Member of
Parliament for St Andrews from 1524 (“Fife: pictorial and
historical; its people, burghs, castles, and mansions” by A. H.
Millar, Cupar-Fife, Westwood & son, 1895, p. 166).
David Learmonth was designated as a landowner in Clatto
(references are in many documents). We were unable to find the
charter that would explain how David received these lands.
However we believe that the family continued to own the land
there until 1601. On the lands of Clatto, at the south eastern
extremity of the parish, there are the remains of an old tower which
is said to have belonged to an ancient family called Seaton, of
whom tradition says that they were notorious robbers and
murderers. The old road from Cupar to Kingshorn passed through
Clatto and in the face of a hill, which forms its boundary, there is
alleged to have been a cave, which communicated to the tower.
The Seatons would wait in the cave for travellers to pass. They
would rush out on the unsuspecting people, drag them into the
caves, then rob and murder them. Clatto Castle belonged to the
Seatons from 1400 to 1510. These branches of the Seaton family
were all executed for their many crimes by King James
().
On 28th December 1520, the castle of Dairsie was
conveyed by feu-charter by Andrew, Archbishop of St Andrews
- 54 -
and his chapter, to David Learmonth of Clatto and his son James
(“Dairsie Parish. Civil History” ).
Dairsie Castle belonged to the Learmonths for over 100
years so its history deserves a special place in our account. No
satisfactory origin has been suggested for the name of Dairsie. In
ecclesiastical documents dated 1240 relating to St Andrews, there
was mention of a farm in the area with the spelling Deruesyn. The
Castle of Dairsie, where a Parliament was held in 1335, may have
been built by Bishop Lamberton, which was later demolished, and
a new castle erected on the same site when the Learmonths
obtained the estate. The whole of the castle was, most probably,
erected by the Learmonths in about 1550 from existing remains.
From an examination of old drawings, Dairsie Castle had been
originally a simple circular keep, intended as a baronial stronghold
rather than a fortified house. At a later stage, as the refinements of
civilization became necessities, the keep may have been gradually
decorated internally, but its outward form probably remained
unaltered for centuries. The close relationship with France
exercised great influence upon castle-building in Fifeshire more
than on any other part of the kingdom, and Dairsie may be taken as
a good example of this type of construction (“Fife: pictorial and
historical; its people, burghs, castles, and mansions” by A. H.
Millar, Cupar, Fife, Westwood & Son, 1895, p.p. 163-164).
The Dairsie Castle had many owners after the Learmonth
family and by year 1990 was in complete ruins. In May 1992,
Chris Ruffle bought Dairsie Castle from Andrew Logan, sight
unseen, as part of the sale of Dairsie Farm. It was an unpromising
start, for Dairsie was referred to as "an unsuitable candidate for
restoration" by Historic Scotland. The restoration was completed
in 1995 (Illus. 14).
- 55 -

David Learmonth married Agnes Kynman, daughter of
(most probably) Kynman of Hill in the Carse of Gowry. Their
children were James (heir, b. c. 1500); Robert (b. c. 1501) and
John (b. c. 1503). All three became educated men as did most of
the Learmonths from these families. Robert Learmonth was a
citizen of St Andrews in 1555. He was a witness to a deed by his
brother, James; his other brother John was also a witness to the
same deed dated 1545. Robert and John Learmonth were both
appointed Procurators. Robert: in June 1545; October 1550,
Robert and Sir John Learmonth May 1552 and May 1557; August
1556 and September 1556 (“Protocol book of Sir Alexander Gaw,
1540-1558”, ed. by the Rev. John Anderson and William Angus,
Edinburgh, printed for the Society by J. Skinner, 1910, p.p. 10, 18,
25, 36).
In the Town Hall foyer in St Andrews there is a seat, (a
settle) dated c 1511, which is made up of 5 wooden panels, 2 on
the top and 3 below. The top 2 panels show on the left an initial I
which may have been L for Learmonth as it is damaged. Behind is
a possible O or part of a D….David. The plaque on the seat says:
“The Panels in this Settle Belonged to David Learmonth who was
Provost of St Andrews in 1511”. This is probably the earliest
Learmonth Coat of Arms in existence (Illus. 15).
Many generation of the family were born at the castle.
- 56 -
- 57 -

James Learmonth (b. c. 1500) succeeded his father David
before 1525. He was elected Provost of St Andrews in 1525 and
held this position for 22 years until his death in 1547. James
Learmonth became the owner of Dairsie Castle and also inherited
his father’s lands in Clatto. He was described as James Learmonth
of Clatto in the following documents: “Description Precept of
sasine by Alexander Stewart, Commentator of Scone (later Bishop
of Moray), conveyed in favour of James Learmonth of Clatto of
the lands of Balgally in the sheriffdom of Fife, 31 May 1525 (A.
Mace: “Handlist of Documents in the Fuller Collection”,
University of London Library, V. 1 (London, 1977) and “F E L
Carter Some Scottish Documents” in “Fuller Collection”,
University of London Library,1979).
James Learmonth of Clatto obtained Balcomie estate from
the King of Scotland James V. The charter is dated 19th November
1526 and is recorded in the Register of the Great Seal. The lands
were then held directly for the King, who was the proprietor.
Balcomie Castle (Illus. 16).
Only a wing of Balcomie Castle remains, but even that
shows that it must have been a fine house in its time. One of its late
owners is reported to have said that he could accommodate a troop
of dragoons, giving every man a bed, and every horse a stall
(“Guide to the East Neuk of Fife” by D. H. Fleming, 1886)
- 58 - - 59 -

A short history of Balcomie.
The picturesque remains of Balcomie Castle form one of
the most striking and interesting objects in the East Neuk of Fife.
The castle stands about two miles north east of the ancient burgh of
Crail, and when originally erected it must have been a very
extensive and imposing structure. The principle part of the building
now standing consisted of the square tower at the north-west
corner, rising to the height of six stories, and the large square
building joined to it at the south-east angle, and having the lofty
chimneys shown on the sketch (illus. 16a) (“The castellated and
domestic architecture of Scotland from the twelfth to the
eighteenth century” by David MacGibbon, Thomas Ross,
published by D. Douglas, 1887). The fine arched entrance
gateway seen in the sketch (Illus. 16b) has been a loftier structure
than it is at present (Illus. 16d), but even now it is a very striking
gateway. Three large panels over the arch contain escutcheons,
those in the center panel being the arms and supporters of the
Learmonths of Balcomie, with motto which seems to read “Solis
Feintise” and the date 1660 (confirming that this part of a Castle
was erected later than the main structure). The panel on the left
hand contains the same arms but instead of supporters, a wreath
round the shield, with the initials of John Learmonth (a grandson
of Sir James Learmonth), and on the scroll above the motto “Sans
Feintise” (“Without hypocrisy”). The remaining panel, which is
similar to the last, contains the arms and initials of Elizabeth
Myreton of Runderston, wife of John Learmonth, with motto
“Advysedlie” On the frieze running along the top of the gateway is
the inscription:
THE LORD BVLD THE HOUSE THEY LABOVR IN VAINE
THAT BVILD IT
However, like many similar buildings in Scotland its beauty
has been sacrificed to the utilitarian spirit of the age. This quaint
old castle, which had been the residence of several historical
characters, has been deprived of its dignity, and transformed into a
- 60 - - 61 -

commodious farmhouse.
The existing portions of the original structure are a
tower, which probably formed one of the wings of the castle, and
an arched gateway. There must have been a dwelling of some kind
at Balcomie long before 1526, as the name of the estate can be
traced back to 1278 when it was in the possession of John de Haia
(Hay), who is described as de Balcomy. However shortly thereafter
the family name seems to have been dropped and the territorial
title de Balcomy alone retained.
Sir James Learmonth, who became the first Laird of
Balcomie of that name, was a prominent historical character, and
took a leading part in public affairs during the turbulent reign of
James V. He was appointed the Master of the Kings Household in
1537. In 1538 the fortunes of the Learmonth families received a
massive boost when Sir James received Mary of Guise, who
became the second wife of James V when she landed in Fifeshire.
He entertained her at Balcomie before conducting her to St
Andrews to meet the King. The times and events in which Sir
James Learmonth participated and his close connection to the
Royal family would not have been as colourful or as precise if Mr
George Buchanan had not described them in his book: “Rerum
Scoticarum historia” 1506-1582 (“Rerum Scoticarum Historia” by
George Buchanan, Paris (1582). A hypertext critical edition by D.
F. Sutton. The University of California, Irvine).
At the beginning of the year 1539, many people were
apprehended, because they were suspected of Lutheranism, and by
the end of February five had been burnt nine recanted, but many
more were banished. During this period, James Learmonth was
occupied with his regular work as a Magistrate and as Provost of St
Andrews. These duties required him to participate in the solution
of lawsuits (some of them recorded for example in (“Protocol
books” by Dominus Thomas Johnsoun, 1528-1578, Edinburgh,
1917) and are listed below: 1539/40: James Leirmont of Dersy was
among witnesses of the resignation by Henry Kempt of
Thomastoun, with consent of Janet Dury, his wife, of the Lands of
Harehope lying in the parish Eddilstoun and sheriffdom of Peblis,
- 62 -
in to the hand of the superiors Andrew, Abbot of Melrose and the
convent thereof. Done in the King s Palace at Linlithqw, the 3rd of
January 1539/40 (Folio 94, 206, p. 41); 1539/40 James Leirmont of
Dersy was among witnesses of the resignation by James
Hammyltoun of lands in the barony of Stanhouss and sheriffdom
of Lanark. (Folio 97, 213, p. 42); 1541: James Leirmonth of
Dersy, Master of the King’s household was directed the sasine
concerning the lands of James Mortons. He participated in the
ancient ceremony of 'giving sasine' which dates back to the 15 th
century, when the parties would meet with a number of witnesses
on the site of the land being granted (Folio 112-113, 264, p.p. 52-
53).
Sir James was present at the sessions of Parliament in 1524, 1535,
1540, 1543, 1544. He was twice sent as Ambassador to England
during the King’s lifetime to endeavour to bring about
reconciliation between Henry VIII and his unfortunate nephew the
King of Scots, but his efforts were rendered nugatory by the
precipitancy of the Scottish nobles at Fala Moss.
In 1542 when Henry sent an army to invade Scotland,
James V was not slow to take reprisals, but his nobles were angry
or indifferent, and on 25th November 1542 his forces were easily
scattered at the rout of Solway Moss. This blow preyed upon the
King’s mind, and on the 14 th December he died at Falkland, having
just heard of the birth of his daughter. Sir James Learmonth was a
witness to the King’s will.
The last five years of Sir James Learmonth’s life, were
saturated with key events in Scottish history, which cannot be
clearly understood without an examination of his cognate relations
and the emergence of Lutheranism.
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George Wishart, a Martyr.
Sir James Learmonth’s sister Elizabeth was married to
James Wishart of Pitarrow in April 1512. Their only son, George
Wishart, was born about 1513. He was probably called George
after his maternal grandfather or granduncle Prior George
Leirmont, the name was certainly derived from his mother’s
family. George’s father, James Wishart, died in May 1525.
Therefore, his mother, Elizabeth together with her brother, Sir
James Learmonth of Balcomie, were the two people who were
responsible for George’s upbringing.
George Wishart eventually chose to train for the clerical
profession, in which several members of his House had attained
distinction, and wherein his prospects of advancement, owing to
the intimacy which existed between his family and David Beaton,
Abbot of Arbroath, the future cardinal, were considerable. As his
name does not appear in the registers of any of the Scottish
colleges, it is most probable that he was sent by his maternal uncle,
Sir James, to Cambridge University and then to one or more of the
universities of Germany. During the progress of his studies he
seems to have embraced the reformist doctrines (“The Life of
George Wishart” by C. Rogers, London, 1876).
George was unusually intellectually gifted and he was said
to be so full of grace that there was none who had come before to
whom he could be compared. He not only excelled in general
studies but also in spiritual insight but, above all, he was endowed
with the gift of prophecy. He became a Scottish Protestant
reformer travelling around Scotland preaching the reformation
message, visiting the sick and offering comfort and support to all
who needed it. He was very successful and quickly became highly
regarded, particularly for his condemnation of the corruption
within the Catholic Church.
His success enraged the Scottish Catholics led by Marie de
Guise and Cardinal David Beaton who were determined to stop
George’ s growing influence. Beaton had him arrested and, despite
protests from a number of influential people, George was tried for
heresy, found guilty and burnt at the stake at St Andrews Castle.
- 64 -
Cardinal Beaton thought that would be the end of the matter but it
turned out that George’s death was just the beginning
(Significant Scots “Cardinal David Beaton”
).
We are fortunate that there is a portrait of George Wishart
preserved in the art collection at the National Portrait Gallery of
Scotland, in Edinburgh. Mr. David Wishart, Ph.D., Honorary
Research Fellow, the University of St Andrews, Scotland kindly
sent us a copy (Illus. 17).
- 65 -

George Wishart’s followers had no plans for revenge but
his family certainly had and it would appear that a plot against
Beaton was active within a few days of George’s death. Beaton
had no idea of the hatred and contempt in which he was now held
or of the plot which was being planned against him. At the time
Beaton’s residence (St Andrews Castle) was being repaired by
masons and carpenters working day and night. James Kirkcaldy,
William Kirkcaldy James Learmonth and Norman Leslie together
with a further eight companions entered the Castle on the night of
28th May 1546. Armed with sword and pike, they allowed the
workmen to leave and found Cardinal Beaton in his bed-chamber.
He begged for mercy saying ‘I am a priest you will not slay me’.
John Lesilie then charged him with the murder of George Wishart
and he was killed with a stag sword. His body was then thrown out
of the widow from which a short time before he had witnessed the
burning of George Wishart (“Significant Scots”
).
The outcome of these religious troubles was a French
invasion in support of the Catholics lead by Admiral Leon Strozy,
who laid siege to St Andrews Castle, which was eventually ended
with the destruction of the Castle by order of the Earl of Aran. The
French who had pillaged the Castle’s contents and taken hostages
were then satisfied and sailed back to France (Illus. 18).
.
In 1547 the Scots were fighting the English once more at the battle
of Pinkie. During this engagement Sir James Learmonth was
killed. He had been married twice: Catherine Ramsay of Pittedie
and then to Grizel Meldrum of Logie. It was difficult to identify all
his children. He had: Patrick (b. c. 1520) heir and future Patrick
Learmonth of Dairsie; George (b. c. 1525, future George
Learmonth of Balcomie; James (b. c.1527), future James
Learmonth of Kirkheugh; Thomas (b.c.1528) He also had
daughters Christina, Marion (Mariota), Agnes, Isobel, Grizel,
Elizabeth and Margaret.
- 66 -
- 67 -

George Learmonth of Balcomie married before 1545 to
Lady Euphene Leslie, daughter of George Leslie, 4 th Earl of Roth
and Margaret Crichton (Margaret Crichton was the daughter of
William 3rd Lord of Crichton). Lady Euphene was a sibling of
Norman Leslie (b. c.1518), who would become well-known for the
murder Cardinal Beaton.
Margaret Learmonth was married to William Kirkcaldy of
Grange. This data is based on the following records: RSS 3 (1542-
48), there is a record of a letter granting the gift of a tack of the
lands of Nether Freirtoun in Fife belonging to William Kirkcaldy,
sometime young Laird of Grange to Patrick Learmonth of Dairsie
and his sister, Margaret Learmonth, wife of William Kirkcaldy
dated 27th November 1547 (no.2543). As a result of these
marriages Sir James Learmonth, Provost of St Andrews, had
become closely related to several main figures involved in the
reformation of the Scottish church: George Wishart, Norman
Leslie and William Kirkcaldy one of the Protestant leaders.
During the 1540's, the impact of the Protestant Reformation
began to be felt in Scotland. For decades, the Catholic Church in
Scotland had been morally lax and corrupt, and there had been
calls for its reform.
Patrick Learmonth, the eldest son of Sir James Learmonth,
was twenty seven years old when he succeeded his father,
becoming Patrick Learmonth of Dairsie and being elected the
Provost of St Andrews in 1548. The Learmonths were therefore
supporters of the Reformation by family ties and their convictions.
St Andrews had now become the centre of the new faith having
already suffered in this destructive struggle. The city was
devastated but the citizens and magistrate were determined to
defend the growing strength of the Reformation which had now
become the symbol of Scottish independence.
Patrick Learmonth of Dairsie was married to Isobel
Balfour, daughter of Sir James Balfour of Pittendreich, who was
also a powerful and prominent man and a supporter of the
Reformation. In 1549 Patrick Learmonth acquired the Isle of May
with a view to developing a profitable sideline raising rabbits
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there. The stately monastery of stone had been destroyed by the
English in 1543, but the church remained and was restored by the
faithful on account of the frequent miracles wrought there. There
are still the remains of this church today. It was a plain
parallelogram measuring barely 32 by 15 feets
(). Patrick fortified a building
of the former Cluniac priory on the Isle by adding a round tower
with gun ports to one corner with a design similar to that found at
Dairsie. Two years later in 1551 the island was sold on to Andrew
Balfour of Mountquhanie.
The turbulence of the Reformation brought about many
changes. St Andrews Kirk was one of the first to be established.
The Catholic institutions had already been demolished or altered.
The Grey Friars' Monastery in St Andrews was the subject
of an Instrument of Sasine, dated 20 th September 1559. Its site was
conveyed to Patrick Learmonth, Provost, and the community of St
Andrews, as a piece of waste ground after its buildings had been
demolished (“St Andrews Kirk Session Register”, Edinburgh,
1889, Abstract of Writs, No. 293, p. 94). On 13th August 1560,
Parliament agreed (in those days, a nation's religion was set by its
rulers) to instruct the Protestants to prepare a plain account of the
doctrines with which they wanted to replace the Old Catholic
teachings. Parliament would establish these as the only wholesome
and true doctrines necessary to be believed and received within
Scotland. John Knox, who was Scotland's leading reformer and
five other ministers also named John, went to work. They were
John Winram, John Spottiswoode, John Willock, John Douglas,
and John Row. In just four days they had the Scottish Confession
ready.
On this day, 17 th August 1560, Knox and his helpers
presented the Confession to Parliament. The entire document was
read aloud twice for the legislators. The solidly Calvinistic
document consisted of twenty-five short chapters, each of which
was substantiated with scripture quotations. Topics included the
doctrine of God the Father, Son and Holy Spirit, mankind's origin
and sin, the role of the church, good works, the relation of church
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and state, the law, the future life, and more. As with most such
confessions, the nature and work of Christ received the most
attention. It gave as their reason, "We will believe as our fathers
believed." (“The History of the Reformation of Religion within the
Realm of Scotland” by John Knox; edited for popular use by C. J.
Guthrie, London, A. & C. Black, 1905).
Patrick Learmonth of Dairsie, Provost of St Andrews and
his brother George Learmonth of Balcomie, both sat in Parliament
on the day that the Confession of Faith was ratified (“Kirk Session.
St Andrews parish” and ).
However, the situation regarding the Learmonth families
during this period was certainly both difficult and controversial.
The Reformation created years of hardship, struggle and feuding in
Scotland. Lords and Lairds were changing sides almost every few
days from being supporters of the Catholic Scottish Royalty who
were under the influence of the French Catholic House of Guise, to
Protestantism whose hatred of the Catholic idolatry was absolute.
Meanwhile, both parties gave allegiance to the lawful Scottish
Queen (King) which made the whole situation both quarrelsome
and occasionally bloody. The younger brother of Patrick Lermonth
of Dairsie, George Learmonth of Balcomie (c.1523-1586), had
royal connections through his marriage (c. 1558) with Lady
Ephene, daughter of George Leslie the 4th Earl of Roth. Lady
Euphene was a granddaughter of Princes Margaret Stewart, a
daughter of King James II. So Euphene Leslie Learmonth was the
great-granddaughter of King James. She was also the third cousin
of King James V and third aunt to Mary Queen of Scots. The
children of George Learmonth of Balcomie and Lady Euphen were
also fourth cousins to Mary Queen of Scots.
George Learmonth of Balcomie was obviously a prominent
individual but he was not actively involved in the political
intrigues. He mostly cared for his lands and properties which he
received as an heir and by charters.
In 1560 George Learmonth of Balcomie was granted the
land of Northbank (in Fife) by Margaret Erskine Douglas. She was
the mother of James Stewart, Earl of Moray (1531-1570), an
- 70 -
illegitimate son of King James V. He in turn was the third cousin
of Euphene Learmonth Leslie, the wife of George Learmonth.
Margaret Erskine was a third aunt to Lady Euphene. James
Stewart was born and grew up when Sir James Learmonth of
Dairsie was the Master of James V’s Household. So Margaret
Erskine would have had a good social and friendly attachment to
the Learmonth family.
In October 1565, in what became known as the Chaseabout
Raid, open rebellion broke out between James Stewart, Earl of
Moray and his half sister, Mary Queen of Scots, which was caused
by her marriage to Lord Darnley. The Lords were bitterly divided
over support for Lord James or Mary and Darnley. Lord James,
Argyll, Ochiltree, Boyd, Glencairn, and Patrick Learmonth of
Dairsie together with others opposed Mary (“St Andrews Kirk
Session Register”, Part 1, Edinburgh, 1889, p. 8: Register of Privy
Council 369, 405; In the ms. copy of Wyntoun's Cronykil
preserved in the University Library, where it is written at the
bottom of a p. vi).
After murder, rebellion and conspiracy, Mary was forced
to take refuge in England and was eventually executed by Queen
Elizabeth.
James V1 was formally crowned King at the Kirk of the
Holy Rude, Stirling on 29th July 1567. In deference to the
religious beliefs of most of the Scottish ruling class, he was
brought up as a member of the Scottish Protestant Kirk and
educated by men with Presbyterian sympathies. Historian and poet
George Buchanan was responsible of his education. During James
early reign, power was held by a series of Regents, the first of
whom being James Stuart, 1st Earl of Moray, his mother's
illegitimate half brother.
James Learmonth, Provost of Kirkhill and the third son of
Sir James Learmonth of Dairsie and of Balcomie, married
Margaret Kircaldy, the daughter of John Kircaldy, a relative of
William Kircaldy (Kirkcaldy) of Grange, on 7 th February 1567.
There is an interesting detail about James Learmonth and the
- 71 -

custom of those times. On March 12, 1568 Agnes Malwill
(Mellvile) confessed (“St Andrews Kirk Session Register”
Edinburgh, 1889, p.p. 293-294; 324) that she had a son to Mr.
James Learmonth that was born at the end of 1566 and was
baptized before James Learmonth married Margaret Kirkcaldy.
The child was nourished upon Learmonth’s expenses. These
records show that James Learmonth was an honest man. He took
care of his illegitimate son (the name of this child is unknown) and
this illegitimate son did not appear to be a problem for his wife,
Margaret Kircaldy, or her family as he later acquired land at
Firthfield from her father John Kircaldy which was located a few
miles west of Balcomie.
In the year 1570 Sir James Balfour, father-in-law of Patrick
Learmonth of Dairsie found refuge in Dairsie Castle. Sir James
Balfour was involved in many intrigues. He was accused of being
involved in the murder of Lord Darnley. As shown by a notice
which was affixed to the door of the Tollbooth in Edinburgh and
according to the proclamation, have made inquisition for the
slaughter of the King, and do find the Earl of Bothwell, Mr. James
Balfour, parson of Flisk, Mr. David Chambers and Mr. John
Spence, the principal devisers thereof”. At the beginning of 1567
Balfour had been appointed deputy governor of Edinburgh Castle,
under the Earl of Bothwell, who committed to his care the famous
bond, signed by eight bishops, nine earls, and seven barons,
declaring that ambitious and unscrupulous noblemen were not
guiltless of Darnley’s murder and were a suitable match for the
Queen, which he afterwards used with fatal effect against the
Regent Morton. According to the enemies of Mary after she
surrendered at Carberry, it was Sir James Balfour who received a
casket sent by Bothwell which was said to contain the letters that
formed the alleged evidence of her guilt. This casket was not
delivered but, on secret information furnished by him, the
messenger was seized by the confederated Lords, with whom he
was at the time tampering (“Rerum Scoticarum Historia” by
George Buchanan, Paris, 1582, b. xviii. p. 51). He found refuge in
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Dairsie Castle, the home of his son in law Patrick Learmonth.
However, James Balfour was set at liberty on caution, but was
never brought to trial, having made his peace with the Regent by
means of large bribes to his servants
().
In about 1570, George Learmonth of Balcomie acquired
land at Birkhill. Before the year 1560 the Birkhill lands were in the
possession of Balmerino, the House of the Cistercian monks.
Robert, Abbot of Balmerino, demitted in feu-farm to Andrew
Leslie of Kilmany, son of George, Earl of Rothes, the lands of
Corby, Corbyhill, and eight acres of arable land lying next to
Corbyhill, and this charter was confirmed by James V on 16 th
March, 1541-1542, and ratified by Parliament in 1567. Since 1570
and until 1614, these lands were in the possession of the
Learmonth family. John Learmonth, second son of George
Learmonth of Balcomie, was the designated owner of Birkhill until
about 1614 (“Fife: Pictorial and Historical” by A.H. Millar,
Edinburgh, 1893, p. 307).
The death of William Kirkcaldy, a brave soldier and an
honest man in the service of Queen Mary, had serious
consequences for his son in law Patrick Learmonth of Dairsie, who
gave his support to the Lord Hamilton Clan. As a result Patrick
became involved in the war between the Douglas and the
Hamiltons. In July 1575, James Douglas, the 4th Earl of Morton,
laid siege to Dairsie Castle. On the 26th July 1575, Lord John
Hamilton, son of the late Regent, the Duke of Chatelherault, and a
leader of the Queen's party, was ambushed at Cupar by his enemies
the Earle of Buchan, the Earle of Morton that is now, George
Douglas their brother of Lochleven, George Bishop of Murray with
five hundredth horsemen, accompanied with some of Lord
Lyndesay’s friends. He bought time by sending his own retinue to
act as a decoy, whilst he sought refuge in some fine house. He was
immediately revered in the house of a worshipful gentleman
Learmonth of Dairsie in where he was defended friendly and
manfully to the utmost. He was shortly rescued by a party of his
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friends including Earle of Angus, Rothes, Erroll and George Lord
Seytoun and Hamiltons. His party then made a feint towards
Queensferry, before slipping away north.
The Regent was clearly implicated in the plot trying to
withstand the outrage that was done against him, the Regent made
no redress, but rather doubled his malice against the family.
Hamilton followed the Queen into exile after defeat at the battle of
Langside in 1579, for which he was much to blame, but, unlike
her, was restored to his properties in 1585.
Patrick Learmonth of Dairsie was a supporter of the
Protestant Lords. But in 1575 he helped in the escape of Lord John
Hamilton who had been the main supporter of the troubled Mary
Queen of Scots. There is nothing strange in this as we already
know that people of high rank changed sides very quickly
depending on the profits and the interests of their Clan, power,
money, lands, and future prestige.
Royal power was always the supreme power so to be in
immediate proximity to royalty was advantageous and also
prestigious. The Earl of Morton's power as Regent lasted only six
years and his temporary downfall in 1578 brought to an end the
familiar device of Regency, adopted for governing the country
during most of James VI's minority (“Scotland under Morton,
1572-80” by G. R. Hewitt, Edinburgh, 1982;
).
In 1578 there was the huge dispute over lands between the
Border Clans. Patrick Learmonth of Dairsie being the Provost of St
Andrews and Member of Parliament took a part in solving these
problems. Patrick was a Magistrate of St Andrews and a Member
of Parliament for 18 years and took part in the Parliamentary
sessions during the years 1567, 1568, 1569, 1581 and 1585.
William Learmonth, a brother of Patrick Learmonth of
Dairsie, was elected a Bailie of St Andrews in 1582 / 1583 and
probably occupied this office until 1590 (St Andrews Kirk Session
Register, Edinburgh, 1889, p.p. 488, 511, 575, 587, 588, 590, 607,
608, 612, 615, 619, 620, 625, 637, 666, 681, 694, 721). Patrick
- 74 -
Learmonth died in about 1587. His eldest son, James Learmonth of
Dairsie (c.1540-1596), succeeded him.
James Learmonth of Dairsie was elected Provost of St
Andrews in 1588 (“St Andrews Kirk Session Register”,
Edinburgh,1889, p. 641). He held this post until 1596. James
married Janet Sandilands in about 1560; she was a 6th generation
descended from the Robert II of Scotland and the daughter of
James Sandilands of Cruvie and St. Monance and Elizabeth
Meldrum. Therefore, James Learmonth’s children would be
descendants of King of Scotland, Robert II.
These were the years when the Scottish Protestants were
invested after the Confession of Faith was adopted in 1560. It also
included special conditions for the Civil Magistrate.The magistrate
was acknowledged to be both distinguished and ordained by God.
The powers and authorities in the same to be God's holy ordinance,
ordained for manifestation of his own glory, and for the singular
profit and commodity of mankind but also to root out those who
wickedly fight against God's expressed will. Such persons as are
placed in authority are to be loved, honoured, feared, and held in
most reverent estimation because they are the lieutenants of God,
in whose sessions God himself does sit and judge, to whom by
God is given the sword, to the praise and defence of good men, and
to revenge and punish all open malefactors (“The Scottish
Confession of Faith by Presbyterian Heritage Publications, 1995,
the electronic version).
There is no doubt that the Learmonths who were elected
and served extensively in the magistracy of St Andrews during this
time were regarded as honourable, learned and loved people. They
had a duty to maintain order in the city, to punish drunkards, boors,
outrage, to solve and to punish sides for adultery, fornication and
illegitimate children. The magistrate was responsible for people’s
attendance to the prayer services during religious holydays.
Commercial life in medieval St Andrews was dominated by
the Trade Guilds. It had the famous seven trades: Bakers, Fleshers,
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Shoemakers, Smiths, Tailors, Weavers, and Wrights. They set the
quality standards to be expected and their terms of employment
etc. (“A (very) Brief History of St Andrews or how St Andrews
became what it is today” by Raymond Lamont-Brown and Frank
G. Riddell < www.saint-andrews.co.uk/CC/History.htm>).
In 1593 William Learmonth became Dean of the Guild during the
Provostry of James Learmonth of Dairsie. (“St Andrews Kirk
Session Register”, Edinburgh, 1889, p.p. 748-750).
Following is an attempt to clarify the positions of William
Learmonths and their roles in the St Andrews magistracy. The
assumptions detailed below are based on the records of St Andrews
Kirk Session Register, Edinburgh, 1889. One William Learmonth
served Patrick Hepburn, Bishop of Moray. He was a witness in the
trial of the adultery of Joan Hepburn, an illegitimate daughter of
Patrick Hepburn, Bishop of Moray in 1565. This William
Learmonth could be a son of James Learmonth of Clatto, or of
Dairsie, and of Balcomie (b. c. 1500-d. 1547). William Learmonth
was also mentioned as a servant of George Learmonth Laird of
Balcomie in 1575. In those days it was traditional for a son to
assist his father in housekeeping and the running of the estate. So
we believe that this William Learmonth was the son of George
Learmonth of Balcomie. This William also served in France. The
other William Learmonth became a Bailie in the St Andrews
magistrate in the year 1583 and was probably a son of James
Learmonth of Dairsie (b.c.1540-d. 1604). William Learmonth the
younger (was most probably a son of James Learmonth of
Kirkeugh) who was a Bailie of St Andrews in 1593, he was
William Learmonth of Clatto and later of Dairsie and eventually
became a Provost of St Andrews. The Learmonths genealogical
data collected for us by Diana Baptie says that a son of James
Learmonth of Kirkeugh, William Learmonth was married to
Marion Addie.
The year 1593 was a turbulent time for the Learmonth
families. The cries of magistrate power were heard in St Andrews.
It was started with the appointment of Mr. David Black and Mr.
Robert Wallace as special commissioners to the Kirk of St
- 76 -
Andrews. The appointment was proceeded according the Act of the
Synodic to Assembly, holding at St Andrews in 1592. The
magistrates appear to have had a grudge against Wallace. On the
17th of February 1591-1592 they had lodged a complaint against
him with the Presbytery, which, on 24 th March, was referred to the
Synod.
The municipal management of St Andrews was not in the
best shape. On the 24th of March 1592-1593 its “miserable
statement” was brought before the Privy Council by the Provost
James Learmonth of Darsie and his fellow rulers. The bailies were
David Russell, Duncan Balfour, William Cok, and Andrew
Ramsay. William Learmonth was Dean of Guild in those times.
The matter in dispute was remitted to certain referees, but as they
gave no verdict, the Provost, bailies, and council (4 th April 1593)
craved that some other order might be taken. Now, however, they
were not the only complainers, for Thomas Lundy, John Hagy, and
five hundred other inhabitants of St Andrews. They instated to
provide an election of a new magistrate.
The new elections of Provost and Bailie of St Andrews
took place in November 1593. The election was accompanied by
disagreements of the rival parties of the former Provost James
Learmonth of Dairsie and newly elected Provost Captain William
Murray. The dispute was delivered to King James VI and to the
Lords of Session. The matter had been decided at Holyrood. After
hearing both parties, and receiving the advice of certain
Commissioners of Burghs, the King and Lords approved the
election of the new Provost, bailies, and council. The usual
proclamation was to be made at the market cross of St Andrews
and other places needful, that none might be in ignorance, the
inhabitants were to be charged to reverence acknowledge and obey
the new magistrates (“St Andrews Kirk Session Register”,
Edinburgh, 1889, p.p. 758-759).
In January 1593 William Learmonth the elder and his
supporters promised the Kirk of Session to obey the new
magistrate. William Learmonth the younger was entered into the
new magistrate as a Bailie. However, in 1593 William Learmonth
- 77 -

the younger left the magistrate. Despite the approval of the King
James VI the newly elected Provost Captain William Murray, the
disturbances in St Andrews continued for the next two years.
In December 1593 the members of the Learmonth families
and their friends exploded with rage against the new magistrate.
The Learmonth families were represented by James Learmonth of
Dairsie, Patrick Lermonth, a brother of Laird of Dairsie, the Laird
of Ballcolmie, James Learmonth, a son of George Learmonth,.
Robert Lermonth his brother german. They had many supporters
among the decent families: Dauid Russell, William Russell,
Duncane Balfour, William Lermonth elder, and Dauid Watsoun,
Dauid Auchmowty younger, Andro Forrett, James Robertsoun
younger, Alexander Carstaris, Alexander Wynchister, Pa.
Gutherie, William Lermonth younger, Andro Ramsay, Thomas
Lentroun, William Cok, Stevin Philp, Jhone Wylie, and Jhone
Ferry.
In September 1595 new elections came to St Andrews
resulting in James Learmonth of Dairsie celebrating the victory of
his party and his election once more as the Provost of St Andrews.
He held this post throughout the following year.
In 1597 William Learmonth of Clatto, eldest son and heir
of James Learmonth of Dairsie, was elected Provost of St
Andrews, a post that he held until 1601. William Learmonth the
younger was the Bailie of this magistrate. William Learmonth of
Clatto and later of Dairsie was a prominent person of his time. We
found a panegyric (Illus. 19) dedicated to William Learmonth,
Provost of St Andrews 1597-1601 written by Sir William Murdoch
(Learmonth family, of Dairsie & Balcomie, Fife: 3 documents
relating to1620-51, Acc.10940,
).
Sir William Murdoch was obviously a close friend of the
Learmonth families because only a friend could write with this
sense of adoration and excitement about William and his family.
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Sir William, Sei nowe renoцant; in order forme de we concordant,
Invesfit, in ane deis Quadrant: Lermonths, ler langsome, laborant
Invesfit, in ane deis Quadrant: Lermonths, ler langsome, laborant
Lorthie William, youre dignitie; Lord Provest nowe successiuelie
In losans lengthnit, quadrant wayes: youre Lordship honor, quhilk
displayes
Loe heir the laboure, licht, length blaze; Saintandrois state quuhilk
solide stayes
Lang as antiquitie dois record as monuments witnesses afforde.
It is in memorie richt adord; that nowe the aucbt Provest and Lord
Ascending by ane blissit Franese: quhilk neuer dyie doe faile, or
stancbe
Magnificklie bot euer forth lancbe SaintAndrois Lermonths never
- 79 -

quhacbe
Lermonths lang luie Monthlie doe Leir, youre honor charge,
Prouestrie to beir
Euer youre Coate, newe cognizaunce weir for na misreport faint, or
feir
Regard of richt, the rich reward and trewe seruice doe Lier garde
Make manie tymes this be declard, youre seruice renowme ay
prepard.
Of dewe deservit destanie; youre attendance love, loyaltie
Nowe accept this flonnor trewlie and lasting debtbond dignitie
To this therefore have greit respect, Godds Word and treuth for to
erect
Horrible treason, ay detect: King Crown Realme euer mair protect
LORD PROVEST than youre halte Gradrant, to Sainandrois Croce
excrescent
Lof SaintAndrois the Croce sall vaut Lermonths Laude Lore
never scant
Mr. William Mordoch’s panegyric is followed by the round
genealogy of the Clan Learmonth presented to the Provosts of St
Andrews (Illus. 20). It is believed that this was a design sketch, for
a tapestry or possibly a cassock.
- 80 -
- 81 -

The city of St Andrews was divided into 12 districts in
those times: ‘Divisioun of the town in twelf quarteris with the
elderis and deaconis in ilk quarter’. The elders and deacons, were
responsible for keeping order in each district. William Learmonth
the younger and John Hagy were elders in the district that extended
from the Port west of Argyl to the east to John Haheis house. The
moral rules were established by the Kirk Session in St Andrews
and were particularly strong if an officer of the city was insulted.
For example in 1597-1598 there was a long dispute between
William Learmonth younger, Baillie of St Andrews and Mr.
William Waluod, Bessy Waluod, and their colleges. William
Learmonth was summoned before Presbyteries many times for
insulting the said people. It was a hearing that lasted many months
so as to avoid the wrong conclusion. William Learmonth the
younger was publicly warned and had to pay the penalty ((“St
Andrews Kirk Session Register”, Edinburgh, 1889, p.p. 837-838).
In 1602 James Learmonth of Dairsie was again elected the
Provost of St Andrews until 1604. He probably died in about 1605.
The eldest son of George Learmonth of Balcomie and Lady
Euphene, James Learmonth (b. c. 1560-1600) was known for his
adventurous life. He married Anna Mercer, daughter of Laurence
Mercer of Addie c. 1587. They had no issue. James had many
mistresses starting in about 1575 and at least five illegitimate
children who are listed below (“The St Andrews Kirk Session
Register”, Edinburgh, 1889).
The adulteries of James Lermonth’s of Balcomie:
1. ‘In December 1577 Beterage Strang confessed her to be with
child to James Learmonth of Balcomy younger Beaty Strang was
a servant to the Laird of Balcomy in 1575, 1576, 1577.
Her mother was a keeper of the Laird of Balcomy at that time’
(p. 428).
2. In November 1584 Grissell Gray confessed that she had a barn
to James Learmonth apparent of Balcomie (p. 575)
3. In 1587 Elene Pait had the barn and the barn was the James
Learmonth of Balcomie (p. 610).
4. In 1590 Elene Huntar, a daughter of William Huntar and wife
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of Alan Lentron confessed before the Presbyteries that she born a
man child five years ago and the child was James Learmonth of
Balcomie the younger.
A son was taken by George Anderson, servant to James
Learmonth of Balcomie, to Balcomie. In 1590 Elene Huntar told
that she understood that her son is still living in Balcomie (p. 672).
5. In January 1590 year James Learmonth had adultery with
Mirrabill Cuik, and she has a barn with him (p. 696). All Scottish
and English Kings had illegitimate children. All these children
successfully married and held high places at court. This activity
was not the exclusive preserve of the Royals but was also quite
common amongst the land owners and the so called nobility. St
Andrews Kirk Session Register (1559-1600, Edinburgh, 1890)
contains more than 300 cases of adulteries and inquiries into
paternity. We were able to identify some eight illegitimate children
fathered by the following Learmonths: James Learmonth, Provost
of Kirheugh had one barn by Agnes Melville about 1567. James
Learmonth, son of Patrick Learmonth (of Dron) and a grandson of
Patrick Learmonth of Dairsie had two sons by Margaret Scott in
about 1593.
James Learmonth the younger had five children; one of
them was grown up in the Balcomie Castle in about 1590. It is
believed that all these illegitimate male children were allowed to
have the Learmonth surname as their fathers recognized their
paternity.
The name of Sir James Learmonth, younger
Laird of Balcomie, is associated with a famous project of James VI
- The colonization of the Island of Lewis in the Hebrides. In 1599
he set sail with a number of Fife gentlemen for this remote spot,
but, after repeated attempts to quell the resistance of the natives,
the adventurers were forced to abandon their purpose when Sir
James was killed during an inglorious skirmish. As he left no
legitimate issue, the estate fell to his brother (“Fife Pictorial and
Historical” by A.H. Millar, Edinburgh, 1895).
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John Learmonth, a brother of James and second son of
George Learmonth of Balcomie and Lady Euphene, became the
heir of Balcomie in c. 1600. He was also styled of Birkhill. He
married Elizabeth Myrton in about 1580. She was a daughter of
David Myrton of Cambo and of Randerston. John Learmonth was
a graduate of St Andrews University being Knighted in 1606. He
became the Provost of St Andrews in 1607-1608 and was the last
Learmonth to hold this post.
Upon the death of Elizabeth I in 1603, the Crown should
have passed (under the will of Henry VIII) to the Lady Anne
Stanley. Nevertheless, James VI of Scotland was the only serious
claimant to the English Crown; all the others, including the Lady
Anne, were not powerful enough to defend their claims. Thus, an
Accession Council met and proclaimed James, King of England.
He and his wife were crowned on 25th July 1603 at Westminster
Abbey ().
In 1603 Sir John Learmonth of Balcomie and of Birkhill
was one of the Scottish commissioners appointed to settle the
union of the Kingdoms of England and Scotland. Sir John
Learmonth died in 1625 but lived to see James VI securely
established on the throne of the United Kingdom.
Sir James Learmonth of Balcomie (b~1580-1657), the
eldest son of Sir John, was one of the foremost lawyers of his time,
and rose to the highest eminence in his profession. He was
appointed a Lord of Session on 8th November, 1627, and though
he was temporarily deprived of his office during the troubles in the
early part of the reign of Charles 1, he was reappointed as a Judge
by the King in 1641. Twice in his official career he was elected
Lord President of the Court of Session in both 1643 and 1647 but
having joined in "the engagement", he was disqualified from
holding this important office. It was found, however, that a man so
eminent as he could not be easily dispensed with, and accordingly
he was made a commissioner for the administration of justice in
1655 and resumed his seat as a Lord of Session. His parliamentary
career was also distinguished, representing Fifeshire in the
- 84 -
convention of 1625, and eight years later he served on several
parliamentary commissions. His end was both sudden and
appalling. Whilst on the bench giving judgment in a Court of
Session case on 26th June, 1657, he stopped in the midst of his
speech; his head suddenly dropped on his breast, and he expired
without warning. The incident is thus related in Nicol's Diary:
‘A man verie painsful in his office, and willing to dispatch
business in till, tyme, departed this lyfe even in a moment, sitting
upone the bensche in the Parliament Hous, about nyne of the cloke
in the morning, to the great grieff of much people corps was
honorablie buryit in the kirkyeard in Edinburgh, with such
numbers of people as was admirable, and had murners befoir and
following the bier, above fyve hundreth personis. His removal fra
that bensche was esteemed to be a national judgment.’
Sir James was buried in Edinburgh where it was said that
many more than five hundred people attended his funeral. He had
married Margaret Sandilands who was a daughter of William
Sandilands of Monance and an 8 th generation descendant of King
Robert II. Thus both the Learmonths of Dairsie and Balcomie
through their marriages were distant relatives of the House of
Stewart.
Though Sir James had a numerous family, the majority of
his children predeceased him. His son Robert, who did succeeded
him, died without issue in 1696, leaving the estate heavily
encumbered with debt. Serious disputes then arose as to the
succession. The only daughter of Sir James had married Sir
William Gordon of Lesmoir. William Gordon, their son and
solicitor to James VII, then inherited Balcomie (“Fife Pictorial and
Historical” by A. H. Millar, Edinburgh, 1895, p.p. 383-386).
Andrew Learmonth, third son of John Learmonth of
Balcomie and Birkhill, and Elizabeth Myrton of Randerston, was a
Regent in the Old College, of St Andrews (pres. by Charles I, 7th
Sept. 1627, and adm. soon after). Andrew was Minister of the
Liberton from 1629 until 1636. In 1638 he foolishly informed the
King of the outrages of the people against those ministers who
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were too zealous in his service. Andrew was deposed in 1639 for
calling the Covenanters perjured. He was obliged to quit the
Kingdom and lived in great want, died on 4 th Nov. 1662, leaving
not enough to bury him. His widow, Agnes Aytoun, obtained a
grant from the vacant stipends in 1662 (Privy Council Decreta).
He had the following issue: Jean; David; John; Margaret. –
(Edinburgh Reg. (Diana Baptie), Wodrow, MSS., Durie's Dec.,
Lochleven Pap.; Baillie's Lett. i.; Peterkin's Records, Stevenson's
Hist.; )
John Learmonth, one of sons of the above Sir James
Learmonth of Balcomie Lord of Session, was Captain John
Learnmonth who was captured in 1651 at the Battle of
Inverkeithing during the English Civil War. He died of his wounds
in prison shortly after. The Elegie was written in October, 1651
for the Death of Captain John Learmonth of Balcomie (Illus. 21).
- 86 -
- 87 -

Genealogy of the Learmonths of Fife.
According to Adv.MS 20.1.10 (Genealogical Collections of
Sir Robert Douglas of Glenbervie) the progenitor of the Learmonth
line was the laird of Ersiltoun (Earlston in the Merse). An unnamed
descendant went to St Andrews with Henry Wardlaw, Bishop of St
Andrews c.1409 Issue:
Learmonth Family.
1. John Lermont, alive in 1496 (St Salvators Writs), citizen of St
Andrews, Great Customer and Keeper of Coquet Seal (Charter by
Bishop Kennedy, 2 May 1461). He married twice (i) to Janet ...
and (ii) Margaret Walch (Calendar of Charters, 24 March 1468)
Issue : (i) Robert Lermont, his heir (ii) John Lermont (iii) George
Lermont - in 1498, prebendary of Kernys and Cameron in the
Lady Kirk of Hewch - resigned 1503 (RSS 297;962); in 1509
appointed Prior of Pluscarden (RSS 18) 2.(i) - Robert Lermont, son
and heir of John Lermont above, Baillie of St Andrews, Provost in
1494 (Calendar of St Andrews Charters, no.134). He married
c.1464 Beatrix Martine, widow of John Burne (Macfarlane s
Genealogical Collections, ii, 185) Issue : (i) David Learmonth of
Clatto (ii) Alison Learmonth 3(i) - David Learmonth of Clatto, son
and heir of Robert Lermont above; Provost in 1506 and 1514-21
(Parliamemts of Scotland, vol ii, 417), Great Customer etc
(GD7/1/65); acquired the lands of Dairsie - feu charter by Andrew,
Archbishop of St Andrews (Calendar of Charters, nos 202 and
212); and of Balcomie from the Queen Mother, 8 Nov 1513 (Acts
of the Lords of Council in Public Affairs, 156). He died by 1526
(Calendar of St Andrews Charters, no.238) married Agnes
Kynman, she was a widow by 28 Feb 1526/7 (ibid) Issue : (i)
James Learmonth of Dairsie (ii) Robert Learmonth, citizen of St
Andrews, had a son, David Learmonth, apparent heir in 1504 (The
Laing s Charters (854-1837), no, 248) (iii) John Learmonth 4 (i) -
James Learmonth of Dairsie and Balcomie, succeeded before 1525
- 88 -
(Exchequer Rolls, xv, 103); Provost of St Andrews, 1526-44
(Parliaments of Scotland, ii, 417); Master of the King’s Houshold,
1537 (ibid); witness to the will of James V (GD124/10/13);
Ambassador to conclude the marriage between Queen Mary and
Edward, Prince of Wales in 1542 (ibid); purchased the feu of St
Nicholas in 1529; had sasine of Dron; had charter of land of
Kilmynanane and of the lands of Pittendreich (RD1/37;
CC20/11/1; RH6/1210; Acts of Parliament); slain at the battle of
Pinkie in 1547 (Exchequer Rolls xviii, 447). He married (i)
Catherine Ramsay and (ii) Grizel Meldrum Issue: (i) Sir Patrick
Learmonth of Dairsie (ii) George Learmonth of Balcomy (iii)
James Learmonth, Provost of Kirkheugh who married Margaret
Kirkcaldy (RMS (1580-83) nos 866; 1870) and acquired Firthfield
from her father, John Kirkcaldy (CC8/8/8 - 11 Feb 1580/1). He
died on the 22 March 1572 (CC8/8/8 f.683). Issue : (i) William
Learmonth, citizen of St Andrews, 1583 (RD1/80 - 1601); of
Firthfield; d. by June 1611 (GD30/898); married Marion Adie
(RMS (1593-1608), no.765) and had: (iii) William younger,
citizen of St Andrews (RD1/127 - 11 Dec 1606); (vi)Thomas; (v)
Mary who married Andro Greer (CS7/316 - July 1617) (ii)
youngest son was Patrick Learmonth (named in his father s
testament dative). (Note: there is a testament for a William
Learmonth elder, citizen of St Andrews recorded 29 th June 1607.
He died Dec 1606, intestate, his executor was his son, James,
indweller in Haddington. There is also one for a William
Learmonth, citizen of St Andrews recorded 20 th Feb 1615. He died
testate and left all to his wife, Janet Geddes - both recorded in
Edinburgh Commissary Court. (iv) Thomas Learmonth (MS17.1.3
- Register of Pittenweem and Priory of St Andrews, 188 (1565) (i)
Christian Learmonth married George Clephan of Carslogie who d.
pre 1564 (Index to Edinburgh Commissary Court Testaments -
testament missing) and they had George Clephan of Carslogie (d 1
Feb 1582 - CC8/8/12) who married Jonet Forbes and they, in turn,
had Patrick, Andrew, Grizel, Janet, Beatrix and Margaret Clephans
(ii) Mariota (Marion) Learmonth married Thomas Duddingston of
Kincaple (RPC ii, 3868; iii, 587) (iii) Agnes Learmonth married
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John Trail of Blebo (Index to Calendar of Deeds in the Acts and
Decreets (1564-79) (vi) Isobel Learmonth (CC20/11/1 - 3 March
1572) (v) Grizel Learmonth (ibid) (vi) Elizabeth Learmonth
married Sir George Hailiburton of Pitcur (RMS (1546-80) nos 767;
1832) It has not been possible to sort out who were the mothers of
the various children. One strange document exists in the Calendar
of Charters (RH6/1950). It records that David Learmonth, natural
son of Grizel Meldrum, Lady Balcomie was to be in feft in 2 acres
of arable land beside St Andrews, whom failing to his brother,
Robert - given by the Commendatory of the Priory of St Andrews
19 April 1564.
Learmonths of Dairsie:
Sir Patrick Learmonth of Dairsie, heir to his father in 1547,
married Isobel Balfour, daughter of Sir James Balfour of
Pittendreich. He had died by 1587 Issue: (i) James Learmonth of
Dairsie (ii) John Learmonth (RD1/73 f.286) (iii) Patrick
Learmonth of Dron married Jonet Forbes, Lady Carslogie, widow
of George Clephan. George Clephan had died 1 Feb 1582
(CC8/8/12) and his parents were George Clephan of Carslogie and
Christian Learmonth, eldest daughter of Sir James Learmonth and
Catherine Ramsay) She d. 1594 (CC8/8/28). That Patrick had an
illegitimate son, James who fathered the two children by Margaret
Scott in Nydie (St Andrews Kirk Session Records) He was
probably the Patrick Learmonth recorded as a member of the
Scottish Guard in France. (i) Elizabeth (Elspet) had a natural son
to William Kirkcaldy alias Ker of Grange (Index to Calendar of
Deeds) (ii) Margaret Learmonth married (i) Sir David Spens of
Wormiston. He died by 1586. They had Sir James Spens of
Wormiston (1571-1632) and Jean Spens (Index to Calendar of
Deeds) James Learmonth of Dairsie married Janet Sandilands, m.
con 11 Dec 1560 (Index to Calendar of Deed Issue : (i) William
Learmonth of Dairsie (ii) James Learmonth, burgess of Crail, d.
Dec 1661 (RPC, i 422); had a son, James Learmonth (B10/1/3) (iii)
Robert Learmonth (iv) John Learmonth (v) Patrick Learmonth,
Could be a Captain recorded in Sweden (vi) David Learmonth
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(recorded in several deeds in RD1) (i) Elspet Learmonth married
Walter Chisholm, eldest son of Walter Chicholm of that Ilk, m con
27 Jan 1593 - (RD1/76 f.124) (ii) Isobel Learmonth (iii) Margaret
Learmonth William Learmonth of Dairsie d.pre 1616 (RMS vii,
1766) married Cecil Wemys Issue : (i) William Learmonth (ii)
Robert Learmonth (iii) John Learmonth (iv) Patrick Learmonth
Margaret Learmonth (Index to Fife Sasines) Dairsie was sold to
the Spottiswood family in 1616 Learmonths of Dairsie Sir
Patrick Learmonth of Dairsie, heir to his father in 1547, married
Isobel Balfour, daughter of Sir James Balfour of Pittendreich. He
had died by 1587 Issue: (i) James Learmonth of Dairsie (ii) John
Learmonth (RD1/73 f.286) (iii) Patrick Learmonth of Dron
married Jonet Forbes, Lady Carslogie, widow of George Clephan.
George Clephan had died 1 Feb 1582 (CC8/8/12) and his parents
were George Clephan of Carslogie and Christian Learmonth, eldest
daughter of Sir James Learmonth and Catherine Ramsay) She d.
1594 (CC8/8/28). That Patrick had an illegitimate son, James who
fathered the two children by Margaret Scott in Nydie (St Andrews
Kirk Session Records) That Patrick Learmonth was possibly the
same as the one in the Scottish Guard in France. (i) Elizabeth
(Elspet) had a natural son to William Kirkcaldy alias Ker of
Grange (Index to Calendar of Deeds) (ii) Margaret Learmonth
married (i) Sir David Spens of Wormiston. He died by 1586. They
had Sir James Spens of Wormiston (1571-1632) and Jean Spens
(Index to Calendar of Deeds)
James Learmonth of Dairsie married Janet Sandilands, m. con 11
Dec 1560 (Index to Calendar of Deeds) Issue : (i) William
Learmonth of Dairsie (ii) James Learmonth, burgess of Crail, d.
Dec 1661 (RPC, i 422); had a son, James Learmonth (B10/1/3) (iii)
Robert Learmonth (iv) John Learmonth (v) Patrick Learmonth,
Possibly a Captain in Sweden (vi) David Learmonth (recorded in
several deeds in RD1) 61(i) Elspet Learmonth married Walter
Chisholm, eldest son of Walter Chicholm of that Ilk, m con 27 Jan
1593 - (RD1/76 f.124) (ii) Isobel Learmonth (iii) Margaret
Learmonth William Learmonth of Dairsie d.pre 1616 (RMS vii,
1766) married Cecil Wemyes
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Issue : (i) William Learmonth (ii) Robert Learmonth (iii) John
Learmonth (iv) Patrick Learmonth Margaret Learmonth (Index to
Fife Sasines)
Learmonths of Balcomie
George Learmonth of Balcomie married before 1544
Euphan Leslie, daughter of George, Earl of Rothes. George
Learmonth died in June 1585 (CC8/8/15). She married (ii) John
Cunningham of Barns and died April 1588 (Scots Peerage, vii,
290) : Issue : (i). Sir James Learmonth of Balcomie (ii) Sir John
Learmonth of Balcomie, heir to James above (iii) Robert
Learmonth of St Nicolas, advocate, married Margaret Skene, 28
Feb 1599 [26 Nov 1605 ?.] He died by 1643. They had John
Learmonth, advocate. He died by 1652. He had David
Learmonth, served heir to his father 28 Sept 1652 (iv) William
Learmonth, citizen of St Andrews (named in brother, James s
testament dative - (CC8/8/34), burgess of Crail? married Christian
Makeson, daughter of John Makeson, clerk in Crail (Index to
General Register of Sasines, 1618) (i) Elspeth (executrix to father)
(ii) Katherine (ibid) married Cuthbert Borthwick, burgess of
Edinburgh (Index to Fife Sasines; RD1 - 26 May 1607) (iii) Jean
(executrix) (iv) Euphame (ibid) married William Barclay, burgess
of St Andrews (Monumental Inscription in St Andrews Cathedral)
(v) Isobel married Thomas Forrester of Strathendrie, m.con 20
August 1572 (vi) Helen married David Myrton of Cambo Sir
James Learmonth of Balcomie, Fife adventurer to Isle of Lewis,
died en route home at Orkney, 22nd March 1598 (CC8/8/34;
Calender of Scottish Papers). He married Anna Mercer, daughter
of Laurence Mercer of Aldie, m. con 9 Sept 1587 (Index to
Calendar of Deeds). They had no issue. Sir James Learmonth
fathered 3 illegitimate children in 1577; 1584 and 1585, the last
being a son and taken by his servant George Andersoun to live at
Balcomie (St.Andrews Kirk Session Register 1582-1600. (Part 11
published by the Scottish History Society) (Edinburgh 1890) Sir
John Learmonth of Balcomie, heir to James above, 6 March 1600.
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He was first styled of Birkhill. He married Elizabeth Myrton,
daughter of David Myrton of Cambo. He died in 1625 (CC20/4/8)
and she died 12 Dec 1617 (CC20/4/7). Issue : (i) Sir James
Learmonth of Balcomie (ii) David Learmonth, Captain in the
Swedish Service, died in Germany in 1627 (MS 33.2.27; RMS - 13
March 1614) (iii) Andrew Learmonth, Minister of Liberton
married Agnes Aytoun (ibid; Fasti Ecclesiae Scoticanae). Issue :
Jean, David and John (iv) George Learmonth (named in mother s
testament; also in B10/1/3 - 3 Jan 1600) (v) Thomas Learmonth (
named in mother s testament) (vi) John Learmonth (ibid), Captain
in a Company of Denmark, d. 1627 in Boitzenburg (T Riis -
Should Auld Acquaintance be Forgot) (vii) Robert Learmonth
(named in mother s testament) (i) Cecil (Cecilia) Learmonth
married John Schevas of Kemback (ii) Elspeth Learmonth (iii)
Helen Learmonth (iv) Isobel Learmonth (all above named in
mother s will) (v) Catherine Learmonth married James Melville of
Halhill, m.con 19 April 1615 (GD98/565) (vi) Anna Learmonth
married John Bonar of Lumquhat (GD194/box 7) (vii) Margaret
Learmonth married William Moncrieff of Randiston (viii)
possibly another daughter Sir James Learmonth of Balcomie,
President of the Court of Session married Margaret Sandilands,
daughter of William Sandilands of St Monans. He died 3 Feb
1657 Issue: (i) John Learmonth died 1651 [married 1625] (ii)
George Learmonth (iii) ? James Leamonth (iv) Robert Learmonth
(v) John, regent in St Andrews in 1657 (vi) Daughter married
William 2-nd son of Sir Wm. Gordon of Lesmoir, and solicitor to
James VII. Robert Learmonth of Balcomie died in 1696, leaving
the estate encumbered with debt.
When Sir Walter Scott was searching and collecting
information about Thomas Learmonth (1220-1297) at the Offices
of the Clerk of Sessions he came across some ancient papers in the
handwriting of the 17 th century.
The following genealogical memoir was discovered among
many writings belonging to the Leirmonts of Balcomie, which is
now extinct.
The genealogy of the honourable and ancient surname
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Leirmont - Leirmont bears: Or, on a chevron Sable, three mascles
void of the first; the name is from France. The chief of the name
was the Laird of Ersilmont in the Merse, whose predecessor;
Thomas Leirmont lived in the reign of Alexander III. He foretold
his death. One of those sons married Janet de Darsie, and had the
lands of Darsie in Fife, be that marriage, the contract is yet extant
confirmed be the King. The house of Darsie bears a rose in base
for difference. It is now extinct, only Leirmont of Balcomie in Fife
is chief now, whose predecessor was master of household to King
James 1V. His predecessor was the eldest son of Darsie, and took
to himself the estate of Balcomie, leaving Darsie to the second
brother. Upon this account Balcomie is holden of the King and
Darsie of the Archbishop of St Andrews, so Balcomie bears the
simile coat without the rose in the base, since the distinction of
Darsie. (Walter Scott’s “Poetical Works”, v. V p. 5; “History of the
County of Fife” by John M Leighton published by Joseph Swan,
1840, pp 260-261).
Learmonths served abroad in XVI century.
George Leirmont came over to Russia.
Sir James Spens.
- 94 -
Margaret Learmonth, a daughter of Sir Patrick Learmonth
of Dairsie, married David Spens in about 1550. Their eldest son
James (b. 1551) had a most impressive career both as a mercenary
soldier and diplomat. He was also instrumental in organising and
recruiting fighting men for service in Europe (Sweden, Russia).
No Scottish name during the time of Charles IX and Gustavus
Adolphus is more frequently named in court or camp than that of
Sir James Spens of Wormiston a grandson of Patrick Learmonth of
Dairsie (Illus. 21) (“The Scots in Sweden. Part II (B). Militaria.
The period of Custavus II (Adolphus)” by A. Ficsher, first
published in 1902

Wormiston”: ).
The most detailed information regarding James Spens’s
military and diplomatic career is contained in the research by S.
Murdoch and A. Grosjean (“Scotland, Scandinavia & Northern
Europe, 1580-1707”, University of St Andrews, SSNE Database,
1998-2009, ID: 1642) (Illus. 23).
In 1594 James Spens was a Provost in Crail, Fifeshire but
his adventurous life started in 1598 when he with his relative
James Learmonth of Balcomie and others became a hostage on the
Isle of Lewis after a failed scheme to occupy and repopulate the
- 96 -
Island. James Spens survived, but James Learmonth died. In 1605
James Spens and his brother David were approached by King Karl
IX of Sweden and asked to arrange a levy of 1,600 infantry and
600 cavalry, with the proviso that this was undertaken with the
permission of King James VI. For every 300 men Spens would
receive 1,600 daler and he would also be made a Colonel and
command the troops he supplied. In 1608, Spens was again
contacted by Karl IX, this time offering 1,700 daler for every 200
infantry-men and it was agreed that the same amount would be
paid for each company of 100 cavalry. The Swedish King
obviously had complete trust in Spens as, later that year he sent
him 700 daler and the following year provided 4,500 riksdaler for
further recruitment. The following names are taken from a travel
pass issued in Sweden for travel to Britain dated 17th December
1609 (the reason for the journey was recruitment and training).
Samuel Cockburn [SSNE 4219], John Wauchop [SSNE 4220],
Patrick Ruthven [SSNE 3413], Hugo Cochran [SSNE 4221],
Daniel Rogers [SSNE 4222], Robert Kinnaird [SSNE 4223],
George Douglas [SSNE 2129], and William Horne [SSNE 4224]
accompanied by James Spens (Swedish diplomat).
In 1610, Spens received a knighthood and became the
Stuart Court legate to Sweden which was probably a cover for his
real work. In the same year he recruited 1,200 British troops who
were deployed in Russia under Lieutenant-Colonel Calvine and a
further 300 under the command of Samuel Cockburn (Lubimenko's
printed letter to Thomas Chamberlain). The full strength of the
regiment sent to Russia was 600 horse and 1,800 foot. It is
unlikely that Spens went to Russia with these troops as he had
responsibilities in Sweden and for further recruitment. This
regiment seems to have been lent to the Russians by the Swedes
and placed under the overall command of General Endred Horne, a
senior Swedish general. Also in 1610, Spens was made a General
in command of all British troops in Sweden and was asked to
recruit a further 3,000 men. At this time Sweden was at war with
Denmark and Norway which became a problem for Spens when he
was detained at the port of Helsinborg and was only released after
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personal audiences with the Danish King at both Risby and at
Jönköping. In 1612 he returned to London as the Swedish envoy
and diplomatic correspondent to the Stuart Court. This
appointment however, did not stop his recruiting and training
activities or his involvement in secret operations in Scandinavia.
This brief account of the life of Sir James Spens illustrates
the reason why he was highly regarded by Kings and their
governments. He was also greatly admired by his friends and
family as an adventurer, diplomat and secret fixer, who operated at
the highest level. It was therefore, inevitable that this would
encourage the people who new him or new about him to try and
emulate his lifestyle. James Spens had obviously influence to
attract young Learmonths of Dairsie and of Balcomie who were his
close relatives. A number of the Learmonths of Fife detailed below
were in the military service according to records (“Scotland,
Scandinavia & Northern Europe, 1580-1707” by Steve Murdoch &
Alexia Grosjean ).
Peter Learmonth (ID: 1763) (could be Patrick). Peter
Learmonth was a brother of William Learmonth of Darisie
(Illus.24) and a cousin of James Spens. He was an ensign in
Swedish service during 1603-1604. It was possible that this P.
Lermonth was an officer recruited by James Spens. P. Learmonth
may or may not be the same individual who is later recorded as
serving in Poland [SSNE 5222].
Patrick Learmonth (ID: 865) served in the Swedish army
1609-1613. This is probably the Captain Lermund referred to by
Axel Oxenstierna in his letter dated September 1612 to Field
Marshall Jesper Mattison Krus in which he states that he would be
of use to Krus in the war against Denmark-Norway.
Some Peter Learmonth (ID: 5222), nobles, was granted a
heritage by King Sigismund III of Poland in 1619. This grant refers
to Learmonths honourable service as a soldier against the Duke of
Sodermanland (King Karl IX of Sweden) and against the Russians
at Smolensk. On 17th January 1621 Peter Learmonth and Captain
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William Keith received letters of recommendation and travel
passes for Warsaw. They were commissioned to levy a regiment of
900 Scottish infantry who were serving in Poland. Peter later led
three companies of German infantry whilst his Scottish regiment
served with the Polish artillery and hussars. He was probably the
same Peter Learmonth who was captured by the Poles whilst in
Swedish service, fighting on behalf of Muscovy during Russia's
hostilities with Poland-Lithuania 1614-16. He then entered Polish
service and commanded troops at Smolensk and Viazma and
fought against Moscow in 1617-18. This is probably the same
Peter Learmonth who rejoined the Polish army in 1648; 13 years
after it had been disbanded following the treaty of Stuhmsdorf in
1635. He could be the same Peter Learmonth who was an ensign in
Swedish service in 1603 [SSNE ID: 1763]. (“Learmonth agaist
Leirmont” by Tatiana Molchanova, in Russian, St Petersburg,
2011, in press). We assume that this Peter Learmonth (b ~ 1580)
and he could have actually been Patrick, as these names were often
interchanged a son of William Learmonth of Dairsie and Cecil
Wemyss and the nephew of Captain Patrick Learmonth who was
deceased by 1614.
George Learmonth (ID: 3968; b. ~1593-1634) was an
ensign in 1613. He changed sides from Polish to Russian service
with other Scottish soldiers who were part of the Polish garrison of
Belaya. He served under Prince Pozharsky and was granted land
near Galich. In 1634 he served as a Russian Captain of horse in the
war between Russia and Poland-Lithuania. He was killed during
the siege of Smolensk. He had three sons William (SSNE 3969)
Henry (Andrey) (SSNE 3970) and Peter (SSNE 3971) This George
was probably a son of John Learmonth of Balcomie and Elizabeth
Myrton (Illus 24).
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It is possible that he is the same person under both references ID:
4227 and ID: 441, who were part of a company of Scottish foot in
Danish service in 1627-1629 with Colonel Donald Mackay's
[SSNE ID: 93] regiment. On 24th December 1627 in the city of
Hamburg, some John Learmonth signed a receipt for 120
rixdollars. John Learmonth was garrisoned with his company at
Gluckstadt during August 1628 - March 1629. The company was
disbanded on 27th July 1629.
Captain John Learmonth (ID: 442) served as the
commander of the remaining Scots in Danish service. Learmonth
transferred to Swedish service with the rest of Mackay's regiment.
He eventually transferred to Erik Hansson Ulfsparre's dragoons.
We assume that this John Learmonth (b ~ 1580) could be a son of
William Learmonth of Dairsie and Cecil Wemyss. That would
mean he was a nephew of Captain Patrick Learmonth (deceased in
1614). It is however possible that he was a son of James
Learmonth, Lord of Sessions and Margaret Sandilands. He
eventually returned to Scotland. He died in 1651 after the battle of
Inverkeithing.
Captain Learmonth (ID: 4227) is listed as a member of
Gustav II Adolf’s one and only Scottish regiment of Samuel
Cockburn [SSNE ID: 4219] during the Kalmar War, 1611-13.
Despite this, there were various other companies led by and
comprising of Scottish officers and men.
Captain John Learmonth (ID: 441) was a brother of Lord
Balcomie. He served in the Danish-Norwegian army as a captain
in command of a company in Colonel Donald Mackay's [SSNE ID:
93] regiment. He died of wounds received in action at Boitzenburg
in 1627. We assume that this Captain John Learmonth (b ~ 1585)
was a son of John Learmonth of Balcomie and Elizabeth Myrton.
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George Learmonth (ID: 2907) was an Ensign in William
Lawson’s (SSNE 2899) recruited squadron in 1628. He was also
an Ensign in James Ramsays (SSNE 3315) recruited infantry
regiment in 1628 where he became a Lieutenant. This George
(b~1600) was probably a son of James Learmonth, Lord of
Sessions and Margaret Sandilands. He was most likely the same
George Learmonth at Boitzenburg, serving the King of Sweden
(“Scots in Germany” by Th. A Ficsher, 1902
).
David Learmonth (ID: 95) was authorised by Count
Ernston Mansfield to levy Scottish Regiments on his behalf for
service with the King and Queen of Bohemia. In September 1627
David was Count Mansfield’s representative to Sir Donald Mackay
[SSNE 93]. He organised the ships that transported Mackay's men
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from Scotland to Gluckstadt and was stationed with them until July
1628.
David Learmonth (ID: 2905) served in the Danish army and
is recorded as being an Ensign in 1629, most probably in Donald
Mackay's regiment in Sweden [SSNE 93]. There is some confusion
as to whether there may have been two men with the same name as
Fischer notes a Lieutenant D. Learmonth was serving with Patrick
Ruthven [SSNE 3413] in Sweden in 1630. The muster-roll
indicates he was an Ensign, although he may have held a
temporary field position. He is recorded as a Lieutenant with Erik
Ulfsparres Company in 1631 and also when it was reformed in
1632. David Learmonth (ID: 95 and ID: 2905) were probably the
same person as the career of the David (ID: 95) seems to follow on
from the career of David (ID: 2905). We also believe that this
David Learmonth was a son of John Learmonth of Balcomie and
Elizabeth Myron as Captain John Learmonth (ID:442) and David
(ID:95) were both at Gluckstadt in 1628 in Mackay’s regiment and
they are both recorded as being in Eric Hansson Ulfsparres
Dragoons during the same period.
Thomas Learmonth (ID: 2911) served first as an Ensign
with John Meldrom’s [SSNE 572] regiment between1629-1630.
He was a Lieutenant with Peter Murray's troop in 1634-5 and
served in the same capacity with Alexander Gordon's [SSNE ID:
2499] dragoon regiment in 1635, becoming a Lieutenant Captain in
1636. The fact that he does not appear on Swedish muster-rolls
between1632-1633 suggests he was elsewhere. It is at this time
that a man of the same name appeared in the Russian army under
the command of Alexander Leslie [SSNE ID: 2916], who had been
sent to the Russians by Gustav II Adolfs to open a front against the
Poles in what has become known as the Smolensk War (1632-
1634).
The Russian historian, Vasilii Storozhev (“Georg Lermont
the Progenitor of the Russian Lermontov Family” by Vasilii
Storozhev, Moscow 1894, page 14) found that Thomas Learmonth
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during 1632-1633 was in the regiment commanded by James
Wilson (Williamson / Wallace), and was paid 10 rubles per month.
This was exactly the same time that he was missing from Swedish
muster-rolls. Although this Thomas Learmonth may have been a
different individual we believe that he was the same person. In any
case, while in Russian service Thomas Learmonth may have
served with his kinsman George Learmonth [SSNE ID: 3968). It
therefore appears that this Thomas Learmonth had a diverse
military career. He appeared in Russia in 1632-1633 which leads
us to believe he there was a special reason for him to be there.
George Learmonth (ID: 3968) had been in Russia since
1613 he and Thomas were most probably brothers both being the
sons of John Learmonth of Balcomie and Elizabeth Mytron. It is
very likely that they had communicated over the years and Thomas
took the opportunity to go to Russia when it was offered which
would mean that he could see his brother again. He eventually
served with Alexander Gordon in Russia in 1635.
In conclusion we can say that there is an inspiring list of
Learmonths who originated from the families of Dairsie and
Balcomie that were mainly in the service of the Swedish Kings
between 1613 and 1630. Their careers and lives developed quite
differently. Being mercenaries they often changed sides being
influenced by the money and after service gratuities which were
offered. It should be remembered that at this time this kind of life
was a respected profession and to succeed these soldiers had to be
both brave and honest.
Among the many Learmonths who decided to support their
relative James Spens during 1603-1630, was George Learmonth
(Leirmont), who was the son of John Learmonth of Balcomie and
Elizabeth Myrton. George, through his mother was 5 th generation
descendants of James Stewart II (1430-1460), King of Scotland.
George Learmonth became the progenitor of the Russian
Lermontov family and passed on to this branch of the family his
royal blood. How sad that the Russian poet Michael Yurievich
Lermontov who would be born in 1814 never knew who the
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Scottish ancestors from his father’s side were, and he suffered so
much misery because of this.
George Leirmont came over to Russia.
In the year 1613, George Leirmont/Learmonth (ID 3968,
1593-1634) was amongst more than sixty Scots and Irishmen, who
were either captured or changed sides during a siege by the
Russians at the Polish fortress of Belay (Illus. 25).
Russia this George Leirmont left his signature on two documents:
“George Leirmont with my Hand”, “I George Leirmont with my
hall company has under wirittin this wryiting thatt, this man is
dead att this same day” (V.N. Storozhev, 1894, appendix V, page
24).
The earliest list of these Scottish / Irish mercenaries was
dated October 1616 and was made for the distribution of salaries in
Tula where the Scots and Irish were in service. According to this
account there was a company of 64 Scottish soldiers who were
divided into three groups. They had their own command structure,
"shlyahtichi" or nobility and ordinary. These Scottish companies
were called “Shcotskie nemzhi” (Oleg Skobelkin, Voronrzh
University, Voronezh, Russia, 2001).
George (son of Henry?) Leirmont, registered as an Ensign
in one document and as a noble man in another one, was in the
Scottish Company. George Leirmont eventually became the
ancestor of the Russian poet Michael Yurevich Lermontov. In
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George Leirmont was offered a commission in the Russian
army which he accepted because fighting men like him were made
very welcome during this period, as Russia was desperate for
trained soldiers. It should be pointed out that being a mercenary at
this time was considered to be a respected profession and that
changing sides was not unusual as these type of soldiers served
whoever was offering the most money and after service gratuities.
He was appointed to the rank of Ensign on a fixed salary by Prince
Cherkasski and Prince Buturlin who were both powerful men,
being close relatives of the Russian Tsar Michael Fyodorovich.
There is no surviving record of George’s army service
during the years 1613 to 1616. However one action during this
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period by the “Belaya’s” Scots under the command of Captain
Andrew (Henry) Mowbray (sounds Ondrey Mutr in Russian) led to
the humiliation of the rebellious Cossacks. Another section under
the command of William Durie was in Tula which beat off several
Tatar attacks. A petition (application) from George Leirmont dated
1628 when listing his military career stated that he fought against
the Tatars, so it is quite possible that he was with Durie at Tula
during these actions. This regiment acted under the overall
command of Prince Vasily Kurakin. The Tula service was hard and
dangerous; many Scots and Russians were killed or badly
wounded. However George survived and in 1617 he was promoted
to Lieutenant with the approval of the whole company to replace
David Edwards who had been killed. In June
1618, during hostilities between Russia and Poland, George
Leirmont was with the regiment led by the Boyars Boris
Mihajlovichem Lykov and Grigory Valuev at the battle for
Mozhaisk. The Russians beat off attacks by the Polish army under
Vladislav and several weeks then passed without any further
action. Therefore, in August 1618 Prince Lykov supported by
Prince Pozharski disengaged the armies from Mozhaisk and
returned to Moscow. In September 1618 Polish Prince Vladislav
moved directly towards Moscow. George Leirmont was in the city
at the time with a group under the command of Prince Vasily
Semyonovicha Kurakin. On the night of the 1 st October 1618 he
fought at the Arbat gate during an attack from Valadislav’s army.
The military group that protected the Arbat gate, not only caused
heavy losses to the enemy, but also made a successful sortie.
During this attack a Scot Lieutenant Peter/Patrick Yule was killed.
George was then appointed to replace him.
In September 1618 George Learmonth was promoted to
the rank of Captain of the “Shcotskoya”/ Scottish company. His
pay was increased five-fold on the completion of five years
military service in Russia, during which time he had become a
trusted officer due to his regular communications with Tsar
Micheal Fyodorovich. He was popular with both the men under
his command and his fellow officers, as he had proved to be both
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courageous and effective in battle situations. His reputation was
also greatly enhanced due to his service under the high-ranking and
influential commanders Prince Dmitry Mamstrjukovich
Cherkassky, Prince Boris Mihajlovich Lykov and Prince Vasily
Semyonovich Kurakin).
By the end of 1618 Poland and Russia signed an armistice
which allowed George and other foreigners to make plans for their
future. In 1619 Captain George Learmonth with other Scots wrote
an application to the Sovereign. They listed the services they had
performed as soldiers on behalf of the Tsar and the Russian people.
The purpose of the application was a request to grant those lands
and financial assistance so that they could become Russian citizens
and land owners. The resolution under this application was
received in accordance with a policy of the Sovereign “Foreigners
are not taken into the imperial service by force, the Sovereign does
not offend anyone who bows to the imperial service, but shows his
favour to any foreigners who would like to serve him. These
foreigners would not be driven away and they are entitled to
moneyed assistance. The lands could be granted only to those
foreigners who would wish to remain in the State of Moscow
forever” (“History of Russia” S. Solovyov, vol. 9).
A list of the 47 individuals who decided to stay in Russia
can be found in the “The Book of Orders“. Amongst the names
recorded are Captains George Leirmont and Jacob Shaw, together
with Ensigns Ian Farfar and Jan Wood. In 1620 George and the
others all received estates at the region of cities Chukhloma and
Galich, Kostromskoi’s district (Illus. 28). They received these
lands in accordance with Russian Law for ownership of estates by
foreigners (“Georg Lermont the Progenitor of the Russian
Lermontov Family” by V. Storozhev, Moscow 1894).
Before the Polish intervention a large part of the district of
Galich consisted of the so called ‘black lands’, which meant that
the peasants who lived there were not regarded as serfs. Tsar
Michael therefore distributed the Galich Lands to both well born
Russian Boyars as well as foreigners who wished to stay in Russia.
In the year 1621 and also in 1628 George received 10
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estates in the villages of Kuznezhovo, Usol’zhevo, Cheremisovo,
Filino, Ryavkino, Semenkovo, Okatovo, Pravilkino, Kopylovo and
Ostrozhnikovo on the river Penka (near Chuhloma). The official
documents of ownership were signed by the local clerk Ivan
Grjazeva (Illus. 27).
In modern maps of Russia some of these villages still have
the same name, which is surprising, but it confirms the reliability
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- 109 -

of the documents.
These estates were given by the state to a person who had
provided military or public service and could not be sold, but could
be inherited by the owner’s next of kin. In the 16 th and 17 th
centuries an ancestral ownership of the land gradually approached
and was later to be secured under a decree in 1714. The ancestral
lands were the most ancient kind of land property in Russia passed
by right of succession.
George Leirmont was now an individual who intended to
live and work in the State of Moscow, having served Russia with
great honour. George had three sons probably living in Scotland
who in 1628 came to join their father. William, Peter / Patrick and
Andrew / Henry, their names were always spelt in English as
illustrated by the original documents and not in the Russian
equivalents. We know that these children were from his first
marriage which was most probably in Scotland. The name of his
first wife is not known. As time went by, William and Peter
retained their English names but Andrew / Henry became known
as Andrey.
In the year 1634, William Learmonth served in the Russian
army with Prince Ivan Borisovich Cherkassky’s regiment and was
reported to be well paid. William never lived on his father’s estates
but preferred to make his own way. It is believed that he was killed
in action during 1636 (“Georg Lermont the Progenitor of the
Russian Lermontov Family” by V. Storozhev, Moscow 1894, p.
16).
George Leirmont’s life during the period 1620-1628 was
obviously directed to the management and improvement of his
estates. His second marriage was to Ekaterina Fedorovna, a decent
practical Russian lady who welcomed her stepsons Peter and
Andrew and treated them as if they were her own children. During
the years 1623 to 1625, Ekaterina and George had a daughter who
they named Ekaterina.
The expected war with Poland broke out once again after
the termination of the Deuline’s armistice on 1 st July 1633. The
Tsar and the government had already started to modernize the
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army in anticipation of a new conflict, employing training experts
and strengthening the army with foreign officers and men. These
soldiers were Poles, Lithuanians, Scots, English, Irish, German,
Danes, Greeks, Serbs and Romanians. In April 1630, two new
Russian regiments had been brought up to strength with the
addition of mercenary soldiers commanded by an outstanding
Scottish officer, Colonel Alexander Leslie of Auchintoul (1590-
1663), who had been sent to assist the Russians by King James VI
of England.
Captain George Learmonth was recalled by Prince Ivan
Borisovich Cherkasski in June 1632 to train and to command the
‘Rider Company’ which consisted of about 200 men. George’s son
William also served in the same regiment until at least 1635.
Also in May 1632, a Thomas Learmonth (most probably
the son of John Learmonth of Balcomie) joined the Russian army
as part of a newly-recruited levy of mercenaries and became an
ensign in James Williamson’s regiment. We do not know if this
Thomas ever met George or even knew of his existence. However
it is possible that they were cousins.
From 1632 up to the end of the Smolensk war in 1634, the
Russian government had reformed 10 regiments and strengthened
all the mercenary regiments (in all about 17,000 soldiers) all under
the leadership of Colonel Alexander Leslie. He was the son of
William Leslie, third Laird of Crichie, a branch of the Balquhain
Leslie‘s.
Smolensk was besieged by a Russian army commanded by
the Boyar Sheina. This siege lasted for 8 months before the Poles
surrendered which was a disastrous defeat for King Vladislay of
Poland. However, by 1634 this Russian army had to withdraw as
by then only 8,056 soldiers remained from the 30,000 who started
the campaign having failed to retake all the occupied territories.
In 1634, George Leirmont was killed during the fighting at
Smovilensk but the exact date and circumstances of his death are
unknown. His estates at home had prospered and his family’s
situation was secure, and his wife Ekaterina had an excellent
relationship with George’s children. As a result, the settling of the
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estate was amicable and beneficial to everyone.
In conclusion, we can say that George was an intelligent
man, an excellent soldier, a good organizer and family man.
Were these characteristics inherited from his Scottish
ancestors? Any Scot would say yes. His general background and
education obviously came from his Scottish family as would most
of his other characteristics but his own experience of the struggle
for life and for prosperity came from his own efforts and his need
to succeed.
Thus, George Learmonth being a Scotsman, who through
his profession as a mercenary soldier settled in Russia, which he
came to regard as his new fatherland. As a result he started a
Scottish / Russian family which, in turn, imparted both his strength
and the good traditions of his family to his Russian descendants.
The Early Lermontov Family (Illus. 36).
We do not know exactly when the letters ‘ov’ became
attached to the name ‘Lermont’ changing it to the Russian style –
Lermontoff \Lermontov. This made the name sound Russian which
was more acceptable. George’s children, at some point after 1634,
started to be known by this name. In later years, the spelling was
further refined to Lermontov.
The genealogy of the Russian Lermontov family during the
years 1613-1870 shows that almost all the male descendants had
military careers.
In the years 1655 to 1657, Peter Yurievich Lermontov, a
son of George Leirmont, was the Military Deputy in the Russian
city of Saransk. He had converted to Russian Orthodoxy in 1653
which had greatly assisted his career. He was also introduced to the
Russian Tsar Aleksey Michailovich which also helped him to
succeed.
Peter Yurivich Lermontov’s sons, Yuri (Evtihi) and Peter,
were eventually to serve as “Stolniks” which was an ancient court
rank as illustrated by the following explanation:
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1.“Boyars” (this was the highest court rank of service, and was
restricted to people with a high noble title)
2. “Frontier officer” (a court rank, for a person who dealt with the
Tsar’s travel arrangements abroad and for the Tsar’s meetings and
negotiations with foreign embassy staff ).
3. “Member of Duma” (State Council), restricted to highborn
noblemen.
4. “Duma’s clerks”
5. “Stolnik” (a court rank, a Tsar Palace officer), solicitor and
others, with about 20 different categories.
In the year 1688, the Lermontov family in accordance with
a new Russian law for the noble families of the time, presented and
registered for the first time their genealogy in the Russian
“Pedigree Book”. To be registered in this book as a noble family it
was necessary to present the evident story of their noble origin in
Scotland. Lermontovs knew that their ancestor, George
Leirmont/Learmonth, was a Scotsman. The description of the
origins of the Learmonth Clan in Scotland in the year 1057 given
in Russia in 1688 is almost identical to that of the Scottish
chroniclers except for the ownership in 1057 of Dairsie by the
Learmonths. This detail was not found in the Scottish archive (see
“Learmonths of Fife”). In 1688 the Lermontovs when detailing the
story of their Scottish ancestor referred to Hector Boece and
Jagunus Leslie (read John Leslie).
The Lermontov’s genealogy was justified and signed by the
Russian General Patrick Leopold Gordon (1635-1699) who was a
Scotsman born in Auchleuchries, Aberdeenshire. His father was
not a prominent member of the Gordon Clan, being a “younger
brother of a younger house”, the Gordon’s of Haddo. When Patrick
was young, he being a Catholic was a supporter of the Stewart
House. He was the Cadet of the Haddo family, serving the Swedish
and Polish crowns. In 1661 he entered the Russian Tsar’s service
as a Major. His career then moved forward very quickly. In 1665
he became a Colonel and was sent on a diplomatic mission from
Moscow to London in 1666 / 1667. He went to Scotland in 1669-
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70, where he was made a Freeman of Aberdeen. In 1677-78 he
was made a Russian Major-General and the commander of the
Kiev garrison. He supervised the creation of the Tsar’s Peter the
Great Life Guard regiments and initiated military reforms. In 1687-
89, he took part in the Crimean campaigns and was promoted to
full General in 1689. Gordon supported Tsar Peter the Great in his
coup against the Regent Sophia. In 1698 he suppressed the Streltsy
rebellion saving the throne for Peter the Great. He secured
permission to build the first Roman Catholic Church in Russia. A
staunch Jacobite, he prevented the recognition of William of
Orange by the Tsar. A well-educated man, Patrick Gordon was
also the Russian correspondent of the “London Gazette” and the
author of a famous diary, still inadequately published (Passages
from the Diary of Gen. Patrick Gordon of Uachleuchries.
Aberdeen, 1859: ).
Yuri Lermontov (c. 1661 – 1708) held the rank of ‘Stolnik’
from 1686, as did his brother Peter (c. 1662 - 1704) by 1692. As
already explained, a ‘Stolnik’ was a court rank which meant that
they would have known General Patrick Gordon. When the
Lermontovs genealogy needed to be registered in 1688 it would
have been natural to ask their powerful country-man Patrick
Gordon to sign it and, as it were, be their sponsor.
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Coat of Arms
The relationship between the Russian family and their
Scottish forbears may be better understood by a closer examination
of the Learmonth’s and Lermontov’s Coat of Arms. The Coat of
Arms registered in 1797 by the Russian Lermontov family is one
of the clues to George Leirmont family origins.
A Public Register of All Arms and Bearings in Scotland
was established in 1672 (“Court of the Lord Lyon”, May 2005,
personal communication with Mr. Bruce Gorie, Secretary to the
Lord Lyon Clerk). Coats of Arms in Scotland can only belong to
one person at a time. There is no single Coat of Arms which all
people of the same name can use – often miscalled a “family Coat
of Arms”. As Coats of Arms originated in order to identify a
person it is clear that it would not be practical if more than one
person could use exactly the same design. Arms descend to the heir
in each generation of the person to whom they were originally
granted and other descendants who bear the same surname may
apply for a slightly different version of the Arms to be recorded in
the Public Register of All Arms and Bearings in Scotland. In
Scotland the shields of unrelated people with the same surname
may bear similarities as the design will be based on the shield of
the clan chief, the head of the family
().
Thanks to the kindness of Mr. Gorie, we have a description
of seven-registered Coat of Arms of the Learmonth family from
the years 1672 to 1968. The first one has reference: vol. 1, folio
178, 1672-1679. George Learmonth of Balcomie, Representer of
the family of Learmonth of Dairsie. Shield: Quartely, 1st and 4st,
Or, on a chevron Sable three mascles of the first (for Learmonth);
2nd and 3rd, Azure, on a bend Argent three roses Gules (for
Balcomie). Crest: A rose slipped proper. Motto: “Spero”. This
Coat of Arms can still be seen today above the Gate Way of
Balcomie Castle, Fife. Please see the photograph taken on a
personal visit in March 2005 (Illus. 28: 5). George Learmonth of
Balcomie who register this Coat of Arms in 1672-1679 could be a
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son of James Learmonth of Balcomie Lord of Session (b. after
1580-1657). Probably this George Learmonth is the same person
identified with the ID: 2907. However, this Learmonth Coat of
Arms is not the ancient one. These arms are also quarterly arms so
they shared heraldry of two families: Learmonth and Balcomie.
The last one is unclear and we cannot identify for certain the
family who bore these arms.
The members of the Learmonth family of Fife used the
Coat of Arms long before 1672, some say since XIII century. We
believe that the arms came from France and belonged to the Knight
who fought in the Malcolm’s III army (see “Learmonth Origin”).
The earliest description of the Learmonth Coat of Arms is
“Leirmound of yat ilk: Or, on a chevron Sable three mascles”
(QM093 in “Queen Mary's Roll”, National Library of Scotland,
Edinburgh, 204 QM c. 1562. Reference letters QM. No. of shields
204 ).
William Anderson pointed that the house of Dairsie
adopted the original which bears a rose in the base, but Balcomie
bears a simple coat without the rose at the base (“The Scottish
Nation” by W. Anderson, v. I-III, Edinburgh,A. Fullarton & Co.,
1864, page 641).
The photographs of the ancient Learmonth Coat of Arms
are presented at the illustration 28.
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Most of them were discussed in the part “Learmonths of
Fife”. The illustration 28: 4 is the ‘Learmonth Stone’ a
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heraldic stone dated 1565, originally built into the west side of the
‘Old Tollbooth’ in Market Street, St. Andrews, which was
demolished in 1862. On the left are the Arms of Sir Patrick
Learmonth of Dairsie, Provost of St. Andrews 1550-86. These
Arms have a helmet over the shield. On the right of the Arms are
the emblems of the Burgh of St. Andrews, a boar (wild pig) and an
oak tree (personal communications: Julie Poole, Librarian, St
Andrews, Fife; Scottish Historical Review, v. 2, page 337, 1886).
As a result, we not only have a description but also the
original samples, which confirm the unique design of the original
Coat of Arms dated: 1511, 1529, 1565, 1520-1616, and probably
1660.
All these ancient examples of the Learmonth (Leirmont)
Arms have one common feature ‘the Chevron‘, as it appears on old
seals and monuments, reaches from the base to the top of the
escutcheon (“A System of Heraldry” by Alexander Nisbet. 1816, v.
I, p. 148). This feature was changed in later times and the top of
the chevron now reaches no further than the collar point, this can
be seen on Arms from the XVIII century and particularly in recent
times. Modern designers do not seem use the old chevron
positioning.
The placement of the chevron at the shield could be the key
heraldic symbol which connects the Lermontov family to the
Learmonth families of Dairsie and Balcomie.
In 1797 for the first time in Russia, His Imperial Majesty
Paul instructed to collect and to publish a book entitled “The
General System of Heraldry of the Russian Noble Families”.
According to this decree each noble family whose arms are
recorded in this book, would receive a certificate from the leader of
the nobility.
The individuals who could prove that they belonged to a
noble family would be given a copy of the family Coat of Arms on
a parchment with a press. His Imperial Majesty Paul ordered that
the “The General System of Heraldry of the Russian Noble
Families” would be the main source of information that would
prove a family’s or person’s Noble origins ("The Noble Families in
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the Russian Empire ", St. Petersburg, 1993; Illus. 29).
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In 2003 a request was made by T. Molchanova to the
Russian Archives and conformation was received that the
Lermontov Coat of Arms is in fact in “The General System of
Heraldry of the Russian Noble Families”, 1798, v. IV, on page
102. The following description was given of the Lermontov arms:
The Shield has a gold field, there is a black chevron with three
gold mascles on it under a chevron black flower. The shield is
topped by an ordinary noble Helmet with a noble crown on it. The
colour on the shield is gold enclosed with red, in the bottom the
Motto: SORS MEA JESUS (Illus. 29).
In 1799 Major Yuri Matveevich Leirmontov (b1730 d after
1799) received the certificate confirming his genealogy and
bearing the Lermontov Coat of Arms. The certificate was
considered in the Senate and new data was included in the addition
to the “The General System of Heraldry of the Russian Noble
Families” dated 1799.
Major-General Rostislav Matveivich Lermontov (1810-
1877), a grandson of Yuri Matveevich Leirmontov had a beautiful
seal (Illus. 30.) made on which was engraved his Coat of Arms
(presented with the permission
).
The other Russian Lermontov Coat of Arms has survived in
the Ostrozhnikovskaya line (see George Leirmont’s villages, illus.
27) of the Russian Lermontov Family (the relatives of Tatiana
Molchanova belong). In 1878 the Tobacco Case dedicated to the
victory of the Russian Imperial Army in the war against the
Ottoman Empire was handed to General Major Alexander
Mikhailovich Lermontov (1792-1866), a direct descendant of
George Leirmont, by his relatives. This Tobacco Case was passed
to the eldest son in the family since that time (Illus. 31).
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the Learmonths of Dairsie / Balcomie.
The other peculiar detail is the Latin Motto “Sors mea
IESVS”. The appearance of the motto “Sors mea IESVS” in the
period 1613-1798 almost certainly means that it was not taken
from Russian Orthodox literature. The orthography of the Russian
language did not come under Latin influence until the year 1654.
Up until that time, Jesus was spelt as ІСЪ, ІСЕ, ІС и and ІСС
(). The name Jesus was then spelt as
ІИСЪ sometimes ІИСЕ or in its full form: ІИСQСЪ/ІИСQСЕ.
The spelling IESVS was still in use in England at the beginning of
the XVII century. Upon the slab covering William Shakespeare’s
(1564-1616) grave is the epitaph: (“GOOD FREND FOR IESVS
SAKE FORBEARE, TO DIGG THE DVST ENCLOASED
HEARE. BLESE BE YE MAN YT SPARES THES STONES,
AND CVRST BE HE YT MOVES MY BONES” Therefore, in
England at this time Jesus was still spelt as ‘Iesvs‘.
This is how it would have been spelt in George Leirmont’s
Bible which may well have still been in the possession of the
Lermontov family when they applied for their Coat of Arms in
1798. The motto “Sors mea Iesvs” on the Lermontov family Arms
also sits well with Protestant ideology from “The Scottish
Confession of Faith” adopted in 1560.
The chevron as a heraldic symbol was not generally used in
Russia. The design motif of the arms being very similar to that of
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Black Flower
Illustration 32.
Black “flower” at the base of the Lermontov Coat of Arms.
One of the mysteries of the Lermontov Coat of Arms is the
“black flower” at the base (Illus. 32). The black six petal design at
the base of the Russian Lermontov Coat of Arms (Illus. 29) is not
really a flower as the rose which is a heraldic symbol and has five
petals.
This design which looks like a “six petal Flower” was
probably used over 4,300 years ago. It has a legacy dating back to
the resurrection of Christ (Illus. 33). Named the Morning Star or
Day Star it was first used to describe the planet Venus which had
great importance to cultures 2,000 years ago.
The Bible, Revelation 22:16:
“I Jesus have sent mine angel to testify unto you these things in the
churches. I am the root and the offspring of David, the bright and
Morning Star”
The following are examples of the six petal symbol found in
Scotland and England during our visit in 2006 (Illus. 34).
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These illustrations demonstrate that the ‘six petal flower’ at
the base of the Russian Lermontov Coat of Arms was, and still is,
broadly distributed all over Scotland as a Christian symbol of
ascension and resurrection of life, or a sign of life eternal. This
motive was also used on gravestones as a symbol of remembrance
and honour.
This same “six petal flower” in black was probably
included on the Lermontov Coat of Arms as an illustration and
expression of the family’s Scottish roots. The Motto “Sors mea
Iesvs”, the ancient symbolic motif of Christianity, was a symbol of
unity between the Scottish and Russian families whose names are
from the same origins but whose paths took different directions.
The Scotsman George Leirmont became the ancestor of the
twelve generations of Lermontovs who are living mostly in Russia.
The genealogies of Lermontov families have been studied
vigorously by the Russian historians. There have been enlisted
more than 800 persons in all Lermontov families over almost 400
years: 1613-2007. Along with the brilliant and world-known poet
Mikhail Yurievich Lermontov (1814-1841) there are many other
prominent Lermontovs among them. To illustrate these data we are
presenting Lermontov’s genealogy by year 1981 and also
Lermontovs who are the direct male descendants of Scotsman
George Leirmont by year 2007 (Illus. 35. and 36).
We will tell you their stories in the later parts.
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Michael Yurievich Lermontov. A Great RussianPoet.
The official record («Lermontov- Encyclopaedia
Brittanica») tells us: Lermontov (Illus. 37) was born on October 15
[Oct. 3, Old Style], 1814, Moscow, Russia - died in July 27 [July
15], 1841, Pyatigorsk, the leading Russian Romantic poet and
author of the novel “Geroy nashego vremeni” (1840; “A Hero of
Our Time”), which was to have a profound influence on later
Russian writers.
Life
Lermontov was the son of Yury Petrovich Lermontov
(Illus. 36), a retired army captain, and Mariya Mikhaylovna, née
Arsenyeva. At the age of three his mother died and he was brought
up by his grandmother, Yelizaveta Alekseyevna Arsenyeva, nee
Stolypin, on her estate in Penzenskaya Province. Russia's abundant
natural beauty, its folk songs and tales, its customs and
ceremonies, the hard forced labour of the serfs, and stories and
legends of peasant mutinies all had a great influence in developing
the future poet's character. Because the child was often ill, he was
taken to spas in the Caucasus on three occasions, where the exotic
landscapes created lasting impressions on him.
In 1827 he moved with his grandmother to Moscow, and,
while attending a boarding school for children of the nobility (at
Moscow University), he began to write poetry and also studied
painting. In 1828 he wrote the poems Cherkesy ("Circassians") and
Kavkazsky plennik ("Prisoner of the Caucasus") in the vein of the
English Romantic poet Lord Byron, whose influence then
predominated over young Russian writers. Two years later his first
verse, Vesna ("Spring"), was published. The same year he entered
Moscow University, then one of the liveliest centres of culture and
ideology, where such democratically minded representatives of the
nobility such as Aleksandr Herzen, Nikolay Platonovich Ogaryov,
and others studied. Students ardently discussed political and
philosophical problems, the hard fate of serf peasantry, and the
recent Decembrist uprising. In this atmosphere he wrote many
lyrical verses, longer, narrative poems, and dramas. His drama
Stranny chelovek (1831; "A Strange Man") reflected the attitudes
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current among members of student societies: hatred of the despotic
tsarist regime and of serfdom. In 1832, after clashing with a
reactionary professor, Lermontov left the university and went to St.
Petersburg, where he entered the cadet school. Upon his graduation
in 1834 with the rank of Sub Ensign (or Cornet), Lermontov was
appointed to the Life-Guard Hussar Regiment stationed at
Tsarskoye Selo (now Pushkin), close to St. Petersburg. As a young
officer, he spent a considerable portion of his time in the capital,
and his critical observations of aristocratic life there formed the
basis of his play Maskarad ("Masquerade"). During this period his
deep--but unreciprocated--attachment to Varvara Lopukhina, a
sentiment that never left him, was reflected in Knyaginya
Ligovskaya ("Duchess Ligovskaya") and other works.
Lermontov was greatly shaken in January 1837 by the
death in a duel of the great poet Pushkin.. He wrote an elegy that
expressed the nation's love for the dead poet, denouncing not only
his killer but also the court aristocracy, whom he saw as
executioners of freedom and the true culprits of the tragedy. As
soon as the verses became known to the court of Nicholas I,
Lermontov was arrested and exiled to a regiment stationed in the
Caucasus. Travel to new places, meetings with Decembrists (in
exile in the Caucasus), and introduction to the Georgian
intelligentsia--to the outstanding poet Ilia Chavchavadze, whose
daughter had married a well-known Russian dramatist, poet, and
diplomatist, Aleksandr Sergeyevich Griboyedov as well as to other
prominent Georgian poets in Tiflis (now Tbilisi) broadened his
horizon. Attracted to the nature and poetry of the Caucasus and
excited by its folklore, he studied the local languages and
translated and polished the Azerbaijanian story "Ashik Kerib."
Caucasian themes and images occupy a strong place in his poetry
and in the novel Geroy nashego vremeni, as well as in his sketches
and paintings.
As a result of zealous intercession by his grandmother and
by the influential poet V.A. Zhukovsky, Lermontov was allowed to
return to the capital in 1838. His verses began to appear in the
press: the romantic poem Pesnya pro tsarya Ivana Vasilyevicha,
molodogo oprichnika i udalogo kuptsa Kalashnikova (1837; "A
Song About Tsar Ivan Vasilyevich, His Young Bodyguard, and the
Valiant Merchant Kalashnikov"), the realistic satirical poems
Tambovskaya kaznacheysha (1838; "The Tambov Paymaster's
Wife") and Sashka (written 1839, published 1862), and the
romantic poem Demon. Lermontov became popular; he was called
Pushkin's successor and was lauded for having suffered and been
exiled because of his libertarian verses. Writers and journalists
took an interest in him, and fashionable ladies were attracted to
him. He made friends among the editorial staff of Otechestvennye
zapiski, the leading magazine of the Western-oriented intellectuals,
and in 1840 he met the prominent progressive critic Belinsky, who
envisioned him as the great hope of Russian literature. Lermontov
had arrived among the circle of St. Petersburg writers.
At the end of the 1830’s, the principal directions of his
creative work had been established. His freedom-loving sentiments
and his bitterly skeptical evaluation of the times in which he lived
are embodied in his philosophical lyric poetry ("Duma"
["Thought"], "Ne ver sebye . . . " ["Do Not Trust Yourself . . . "])
and are interpreted in an original fashion in the romantic and
fantastic images of his Caucasian poems, Mtsyri (1840) and
Demon, on which the poet worked for the remainder of his life.
Finally, Lermontov's mature prose showed a critical picture of
contemporary life in his novel Geroy nashego vremeni (The Hero
of Our Time”), containing the sum total of his reflections on
contemporary society and the fortunes of his generation. The hero,
Pechorin, is a cynical person of superior accomplishments who,
having experienced everything else devotes himself to
experimenting with human situations. This realistic novel, full of
social and psychological content and written in prose of superb
quality, played an important role in the development of Russian
prose.
In February 1840 Lermontov was brought to trial before a
military tribunal for his duel with the son of the French
Ambassador at St. Petersburg, Prosper de Barante. The duel was
used as a pretext for punishing the recalcitrant poet. On the
instructions of Nicholas I, Lermontov was sentenced to a new exile
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in the Caucasus, this time to an infantry regiment that was
preparing for dangerous military operations. Soon compelled to
take part in cavalry sorties and hand-to-hand battles, he
distinguished himself in the heavy fighting at Valerik River, which
he describes in "Valerik" and in the verse "Ya k vam pishu . . . "
("I Am Writing to You . . . "). The military command made due
note of the great courage and presence of mind displayed by the
officer-poet.
As a result of persistent requests by his grandmother,
Lermontov was given a short leave in February 1841. He spent
several weeks in the capital, continuing work on compositions he
had already begun and writing several poems noted for their
maturity of thought and talent ("Rodina" ["Motherland"], "Lyubil i
ya v bylye gody" ["And I Was in Love"]. Lermontov devised a
plan for publishing his own magazine, planned new novels, and
sought Belinsky's criticism. But he soon received an order to return
to his regiment and left, full of gloomy forebodings. During this
long journey he experienced a flood of creative energy: his last
notebook contains such masterpieces of Russian lyric poetry as
"Utes" ("The Cliff"), "Spor" ("Argument"), "Svidanye"
("Meeting"), "Listok" ("A Leaf"), "Net, ne tebya tak pylko ya
lyublyu" ("No, It Was Not You I Loved So Fervently"),
"Vykhozhu odin ya na dorogu . . . " ("I go to the Road Alone..“) ,
and "Prorok" ("Prophet"), his last work.
On the way to his regiment, Lermontov lingered on in the
health resort city of Pyatigorsk for treatment. There he met many
fashionable young people from St. Petersburg, among who were
secret ill-wishers who knew his reputation in court circles. Some of
the young people feared his tongue, while others envied his fame.
An atmosphere of intrigue, scandal, and hatred grew up around
him. Finally, a quarrel was provoked between Lermontov and
another officer, N.S. Martynov; the two fought a duel that ended in
the poet's death. He was buried two days later in the municipal
cemetery, and the entire population of the city gathered at his
funeral. Later, Lermontov's coffin was moved to the Tarkhana
estate, and on April 23, 1842, he was buried in the Arsenyev
family vault.
Assessment
Only 26 years old when he died, Lermontov had proved his worth
as a brilliant and gifted poet-thinker, prose writer, and playwright,
the successor to Pushkin, and an exponent of the best traditions of
Russian literature. His youthful lyric poetry is filled with a
passionate craving for freedom and contains calls to battle,
agonizing reflections on how to apply one’s strengths to one’s
life's work, and dreams of heroic deeds. He was deeply troubled by
political events, and the peasant mutinies of 1830 had suggested to
him a time "when the crown of the tsars will fall." Revolutionary
ferment in Western Europe met with an enthusiastic response from
him (verses on the July 1830 revolution in France, on the fall of
Charles X), and the theme of the French Revolution is found in his
later works (the poem Sashka).
Civic and philosophical themes as well as subjective,
deeply personal motifs were closely interwoven in Lermontov's
poetry. He introduced into Russian poetry the intonations of "iron
verse," noted for its heroic sound and its energy of intellectual
expression. His enthusiasm for the future responded to the spiritual
needs of Russian society. Lermontov's legacy has found varied
interpretations in the works of Russian artists, composers, and
theatrical and cinematic figures. His dramatic compositions have
played a considerable role in the development of theatrical art, and
his life has served as material for many novels, poems, plays, and
films.
Bibliography.
Laurence Kelly, Lermontov: Tragedy in the Caucasus (1977,
reissued 1983), is a detailed biography. Shorter biographical
sketches are found in the works of literary criticism, such as John
Mersereau, Mikhail Lermontov (1962); Janko Lavrin, Lermontov
(1959); B.M. Eikhenbaum, Lermontov: A Study in Literary-
Historical Evaluation (1981); and John Garrard, Mikhail
Lermontov (1982), which discuss both the romantic poetry and
prose of the writer. Lermontov's largest and most important prose
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work is analyzed in C.J.B. Turner, Pechorin: An Essay on
Lermontov's "A Hero of Our Time" (1978); and William Mills
Todd III, Fiction and Society in the Age of Pushkin: Ideology,
Institutions, and Narrative (1986). Good translations of Lermontov
into English are found in Charles Johnston (trans.), Narrative
Poems by Alexander Pushkin and by Mikhail Lermontov (1983);
and Guy Daniels (trans.), A Lermontov Reader (1965).
The official biography of the Russian poet Mikhal
Yurievich Lermontov would not be complete without mentioning
that Lermontov is considered as one of the mysterious Russian
poets. The discussion of his life and his literary works still
continues as more documents are discovered.
Mikhail Yurievich Lermontov was a direct descendant of
the Scottish mercenary George Leirmont being the 7th generation.
His grandfather Peter Yurievich Lermontov owned the Ismailovo
Manor located in the Chukholoma district (Illus. 27) which he sold
and moved to the village of Kropotovo near the city of Penza and
Tula. Peter Yurievich Lermontov had five daughters and one son,
Yuri Petrtovich Lermontov (1787-1831). Yuri Petrtovich was a
graduate from the First Cadet Corps in St. Petersburg, he
participated in military actions in both France and Sweden during
1805-1808. In 1811 he retired due to illness and lived in his
Manor Kropotovo. This Lermontov family was not wealthy
because they had five young women who did not work. However
they had some income from their Manor. Yuri Petrovich
Lermontov, who was educated and a handsome well mannered
gentleman, met his future wife Mariya Mikhaylovna Arsenyeva
after being invited by his neighbours to the village of Vasilievskoe.
In 1813 they married and Mikhail Yurievich Lermontov was born
in 1841 in Moscow.
Mikhail lost his mother Mariya Mikhaylovna, née
Arsenyeva, when she was 25 years old. His grandmother
Yelizaveta Alekseyevna Arsenyeva, nee Stolypina, was a strong,
egoistic and wealthy lady. She was certain that she was the only
person who could and should take care of her grandson. The family
of Misha’s father Yuri Petrovich Lermontov was considered by
Yelizaveta Alekseyevna as miserable because of their relative
poverty. However she did accept that Yuri Petrovich Lermontov
was a nobleman and she therefore promised to keep the honour of
the Lermontov surname. However, basically she separated Misha
from his father. Misha Lermontov grew up mostly surrounded by
the Stolypin’s relatives. He was the only Lermontov.
Mikhail Yurievich believed that his early ancestors came
from Scotland. So when he was fifteen in 1830 he wrote two
poems, “The Grave of Ossian” and “Desire” dedicated to his
homeland Scotland:
The Grave of Ossian
In my beloved Scottish highlands,
Under a curtain of cold mists,
Between the sky of storms and dry sands,
The grave of Ossian exists.
My dreaming heart flies to its stone
To breathe in native air puffs
And take from it the priceless loan
The treasure of the second life.
Mikhai Lermontov, 1830.
(Translated by Yevgeny Bonver, October, 2000
Edited by Dmitry Karshtedt, May, 2001)
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Desire
Why not am I the steppe raven,
Just passed me by across the haven?
Why can’t I glide alone on sky?
Being a spirit, being free and fly?
I'd fly to west, tear west along
To ancestral lea, to ancestral home,
To deserted castle on the foggy hill,
To forgotten ashes where ancestors live.
Their ancient shield on the castles’ wall,
Their rusty sword - It says it all.
I‘d fly to brush my sword and shield,
To recall the pride of flourished field
I have dream to touch Scottish harp a string
Hearty tone fulfill every castle wing
Waking up a dream, flying up the vault,
Breaking time and space, crashing poet’s soul.
But pray is hopeless, and dreams are vain
Against the destiny, against the fate.
I am far away from foggy hills.
The Northern Sea as laying sill
The last offspring of Scottish knights,
Buried by snow, faded by night.
In snow country being born,
The foreign soul I did not learn.
Oh, why not am I the steppe raven?
Michael Lermontov, 1830
(Interpreted by Tatiana Molchanova, 2005).
The dear poet did not know how many prominent and
wealthy Lermontov relatives he had, who were, as he was, the
direct descendants of the Scotsman George Leirmont and all lived
at the same time, as he did, in St Petersburg.
Admiral Mikhail Nikolaevich Lermontov (1792-18ll li66),
General Major Vladimir Nikolaevich Lermontov (1796-1876),
General Major Dmitri Nikolaevich Lermontov (1802-1854),
General Major Vsevolod Nikolaevich Lermontov (1812-1877l),
General Major RostislavMatveevich Lermontov (1810-1877);
and many others. Most of them belong to the heroes of the Russian
wars of their times (see below part Lermontov families).
The lack of knowledge about his Lermontov relatives was
possibly one of the reasons for the poet’s tragic fate. This
particular theme is broadly discussed in Russian literature and
could be a special topic for a new literary work.
The name of the Russian Poet Mikhail Yurievich
Lermontov was known in Great Britain as early as 1843 when
Thomas Shaw interpreted Lermontov’s poem “Terek”
(“Blackwood’s Edinburgh Magazine vol. 54, Dec 1843).
We believe that in 1843 the famous Scottish writer T.
Shaw did not connect the Lermontov’s name with the Scottish
family of Learmonth as the article “Memories of Kirkaldy of
Grange” which appeared in Blackwood's Edinburgh magazine in
January 1849, did not mention the possiblity of a connection to Sir
James Learmonth of Dairsie with the Russian Poet Mikhail
Lermontov. However the Scottish Newspapers reacted very
quickly (in 1874-1880; GB 0247 MS Farmer 252, and Accession
Number: 4638, Glasgow University Library, Collected by Henry
George Farmer) in a response to the Vladimir Vasilievich
Nikolski’s publication in the Russian Magazine “Russkaya
Starina” in 1873. The Scottish newspaper with the reference to the
W. R. S. Ralston, the “Athenaeum” ((Athenaeum, September
1873)), supported and approved the idea that the Great Russian
poet Mikhail Lermontov was of Scottish origin and even suggested
that he was a descendant of the Scottish prophet Thomas Rhymer –
Learmonth.
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The mentioned article probably raised for the first time the
question of the kin relations between Scottish Learmonths and
Russian Lermontovs before the Scottish historians and public.
Unfortunately since that time there have been no systematic studies
regarding this in Scotland. There was probably just a belief.
However a series of publications appeared in Scotland in 1925;
then again in 1941 and 1944 about the Scottish-Russian poet
Mikhail Yurievich Lermontov. These publications were based on
the Russian archive’s documentary work and Dr. Crocket’s request
to the Russian Imperial Academy of Sciences in St. Petersburg,
1913 (Illus. 37).
The most impressive memories of the 100th anniversary of
Mikhail Yurievich Lermontov’s death were published in Scotland
dated July 1941 when the Second World War stormed through
Europe and Russia. There were performances, of private concerts
in Scotland devoted to the 100th Anniversary of Lermontov’s
birthday. The Scottish newspapers proudly published that the
descendant of Vladimir Nikolaevicn Lermontov (1796-1876) (see
part “Lermontov families”) made an extremely valuable donation
in 1941 of 20 000 rubles to the Russian National Defense Fund.
We believe that the modern Scottish public is familiar with
the poems and novels of the Great Russian Poet Mikhail Yurievich
Lermontov. His poems are very difficult to interpret in English as
are many other foreign poems. However many readers have
enjoyed his novel “The Hero of our Time”. There are also world
famous operas “Demon” by the Composer Anton Rubinstein and
“Masquerade” by the Composer Aram Khachaturian that were
originally written by Mikhail Lermontov as poems and script,
which are both often performed in London..
Lermontov Families (Illus. 35, 36).
To understand what the 1917 revolution in Russia meant
for the majority of the noble Lermontov families it would be better
to firstly deal with the family history before the revolution.
All the branches of the Russian Lermontov family used to be
conditionally known by the name of the estates that their ancestor
George Leirmont originally received from the Tsar as payment for
his services to the Russian people. They were Kolotilovo’s,
Ostrozhnikovo’s, Ismailovo’s; and Kuznetsovo’s, Lermontov
branches (Illus. 27 and 36). The Kuznetsovo’s Lermontov branch
came to an end by 1790. The Ismailovo’s Lermontov branch ended
in 1841with the death of the Russian poet Mikhail Yurievich
Lermontov. The descendants of the huge Kolotilovo’s and
Ostrozhnikovo’s Lermontov branches are alive and well today.
Ostrozhnikovo’s Lermontov’s
Nikolai Petrovich Lermontov (1770-1827) (Illus. 35, 36)
shared the ownership of Ostrozhnikovo Manor (Illus. 27) with his
brother Pavel Petrovich. In 1794 Nikolai was a retired Lieutenant
Commander and an active leader of the local Chukhloma nobility
(Chukhloma is located about 320 ml from Moscow).
He was married twice and had a family of ten sons. His first
wife gave him one son and the second nine sons. His second wife
was from the ancient Perphiliev family who were wealthy and
respected. Soon after this second marriage Nikolai moved to
the Manor Ivanovo located a few miles from Ostrozhnikovo to
mark his increased wealth. He eventually left Ostrozhnikovo to his
brother as Nikolai’s wealth increased from making money as a
vintner which was extremely profitable in Russia at this time. This
business helped him to establish many useful contacts with people
of influence in his region and also in the capital. All Nicolai
Lermontov’s sons were graduates from the Naval Cadet Corps or
from the Second Cadet Corps in St. Petersburg. In those days
education in the Cadet Corps was for the children of the nobility,
distinguished military officers and civil servants, as well as for
military orphans whose fathers had fallen in the course of duty.
The Cadet Corps were a distinctive feature of the national heritage
in the history of the Russian State. This fundamental education and
the personal characters of the Lermontovs enabled them to succeed
in a military career:
Peter Nikolaevich Lermontov, Lieutenant Commander (1791-
1843); Mikhail Nikolaevich Lermontov, Admiral (1792-1866);
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Vladimir Nikolaevich Lermontov, Major General (1796-1872);
Vasili (Basil) Nikolaevich Lermontov, Colonel, Court Councilor
(1801-1862); Dmitri Nikolaevich Lermontov, Major General
(1802-1854); Alexander Nikolaevich Lermontov, Ensign (1806-
1855); Ivan Nikolaevich Lermontov, Captain (1810-после 1873);
Vsevolod Nikolaevich Lermontov, Major General (1812-1877);
Grigori Nikolaevich Lermontov, Captain (1814-1872).
All of these Lermontovs lived during the same period as the
Great poet Mikhail Yurievich Lermontov but they did not meet or
recognize him as a relative.
Mikhail Nikolaevich Lermontov (1792-1866) (Illus. 38)
was a hero of the Borodino Battle of 1812 and he served with great
distinction in many military campaigns during this period as well
as in the Russo-Turkish War 1853-1856.
His military achievements were recognized by the Russian
Emperors Alexander I and Nikolas I, and he was decorated by
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them with the highest military awards. In 1832 Mikhail
Nikolaevich Lermontov was a Rear-Admiral and a vice Director of
the Inspection Department of the Main Naval Headquarter (later on
Naval Ministry), St. Petersburg. In 1860 he held the rank of the
Admiral of the Russian Imperial Fleet. The descendants of Mikhail
Nikolaevich Lermontov for the first time received the rights of
education at the privileged Military School – the Imperial Corps of
Pages, St. Petersburg.
Mikhail Nikolaevich Lermontov married Emilie Fedorovna
Baroness von Stuart. Emilia Fedorovna Baroness von Stuart was a
fourth child of Baron Friedrich von Stuart (1761—1842) and
Henriette Kant (1783-1850), a niece of the world famous
philosopher Immanuel Kant (1724-1804). Therefore, a philosopher
Kant was a great uncle of Emilie Stuart. Kant's grandfather had
emigrated from Scotland to East Prussia, and his father spelled
their family name "Cant." Friedrich von Stuart’s ancestor John
Stuart came to Sweden in 1579 from Stuarts of Ochiltree, Scotland.
Baron Friedrich von Stuart was a Courland nobleman and
landowner. He had a manor Gross-Dahmen near Libava (now
Liepāja, Latvia).
Mikhail Nikolaevich Lermontov’s family was both wealthy
and well connected belonging to St. Petersburg’s high society.
Mikhail Nikolaevich Lermontov issued several books of his
poems, which were sometimes mistaken for poet Mikhail
Yurievich Lermontov’s works. He died on June 28th 1866 and is
buried in Volkovskoe cemetery, St. Petersburg. His grave was
recently discovered (June 2009; Illus. 38) following our request to
the Russian charitable organization Poxoronka.Ru. A memorial
candle was lit in memory of this great man – Admiral Mikhail
Nikolaevich Lermontov.
Mikhail and Emilie Lermontov had four children: two sons,
Alexander and Mikhail; and two daughters.
Alexander Mikhailovich Lermontov (1838-1906) graduated
from the Imperial Corps of Pages, St. Petersburg, in 1856. He
served with the Imperial Cuirassier Regiment that had the
nickname ‘Tsar’s Regiment’, becoming a Colonel at the age of 30.
In 1872 Alexander Lermontov was a commander of the
Dragoon Regiment. He became famous during the Russian-
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Turkish war 1877-1878 and is still well-known and beloved by the
citizens of the Bulgarian city of Burgas as their liberator as on the
6th February 1878, they were freed from the Ottoman yoke by the
‘Flying Squad’ of Colonel Lermontov (Illus. 39)
().
He was awarded the gold sword and promoted to the rank
of Major General for the liberation of Bulgaria. One of the central
streets of the Burgas is named: Major General Lermontov Street.
In Burgas there is a memorial and a museum dedicated to
his memory (Illus. 39). The Lermontov family commemorated this
event by presenting a Tobacco Case to Major General Mikhail
Alexandrovich Lermontov on which is engraved three family coats
of Arms: Lermontov, Wrangel and Stuart, symbolizing the kinship
of these families (Illus. 31). This Tobacco Case was passed down
to the eldest son of the family since that time and is still preserved
by the Ostrozhnikov’s Lermontov family branch in the USA.
After the war Alexander held the rank of General of Cavalry which
was one of the highest commanding ranks in the Russian Imperial
Army. General Alexander Lermontov was also a member of the
Military Council – the highest military authority for the military
superintendence and legislative power in Imperial Russia. The
main building of the Army Headquarters is located in Palace
Square opposite the Winter Palace in St. Petersburg.
Alexander Mikhailovich Lermontov died in 1906 and is
buried at the prestigious Novodevichie cemetery in St. Petersburg.
He left a huge library for the Army Headquarters consisting of
more than six thousands volumes, which were collected by
Alexander and his father.
Alexander Mikhailovich Lermontov was married to
Alexandra Ferdorovna Baroness von Stuart, his cousin who was
from the same family as his mother, Emilie Baroness von Stuart.
Alexandra Baroness von Stuart was the granddaughter of a Greek
Prince and Moldova Governor Konstantin Muruzi (died in 1787);
and a niece of Prince Alexander Muruzi (1807-1880); and a great
grandniece of the well-known philosopher Emmanuel Kant (see
above). The name of Prince Muruzi is still remembered in St.
Petersburg as he built the famous Moresque style Muruzi’s House
that occupies the territory between Liteiny Avenue,
Panteleymonovskaya (nowadays Pestelya) Street and
Preobrazhenskaya Square, where many famous writers and poets
lived
The Lermontov’s descendants of above marriages are close
relatives (descendants) of the philosopher Emmanuel Kant and
Princes Muruzi.
Alexander Mikhailovich and Alexandra Ferdorovna
Lermontov, nee Baroness von Stuart, had two sons Mikhail (born
in 1859) and Grigori (1871-1888). Grigori died in infancy,
Alexander Mikhailovich Lermontov was a godfather to his nephew
Grigori Lermontov (1877-1949) who was a son of his younger
brother Mikhail
Mikhailovich Lermontov (1841-1897).
Mikhail Mikhailovich Lermontov was a graduate of the
Imperial Corps of Pages, St. Petersburg. His military career was
interrupted by the duel for the honour of the poet Mikhail
Yurievich Lermontov. He was married twice; and he eventually
died in Paris. One of his sons Mikhail (1865-1908) had two sons
who survived through the Revolution of 1917 living in St.
Petersburg. His children are still living in the city today.
Mikhail Mikhailovich Lermontov’s son Grigori lived with
the family of his godfather General Alexander Mikhailovich
Lermontov. So Mikhail Alexandrovich and Grigori Mikhailovich
Lermontov being cousins grew up together in the family of
Alexander Mikhailovich Lermontov.
In 1878 Mikhail Alexandrovich Lermontov, son of
Alexander Mikhailovich Lermontov, graduated from the Imperial
Corps of Pages, St. Petersburg. His future career was with the
Lancer Her Majesty Empress Alexandra Feodorovna’s Regiment,
based in the Petergof. The world-famous Palace Fountain and park
ensemble of Peterhof, often called the "Capital of Fountains", is
situated 30 km from the center of St. Petersburg. Petergof was a
favorite location of the last Russian Tsar Nicolas II and his family.
Mikhail Alexandrovich Lermontov was the last Chief of the
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Petergof’s Imperial Palace Administration during 1906-1917. He
lived in the building of the Palace Administration near the Great
Fountain (Illus. 40b, 3 Samsonievskaya Street). A memorial plaque
now stands at this location. He was very close to the Tsar’s family
and was a member of the Russian High Court. In 1909 he became a
Major General of the Lancers Her Majesty's Empress Alexandra
Feodorovna Regiment (Illus. 40).
Grigori Mikhailovich Lermontov, a cousin of Mikhail
Alexandrovich, graduated in 1896 from the Second Cadet Corps,
St. Peterburg. In 1905 he also graduated from the General
Headquarters Academy in St. Petersburg. This was an honorary
degree for a necessary acceptance qualification to serve at the
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General Headquarters in St. Petersburg. In about 1907 he married
Sofia Hotimsky, a daughter of the very wealthy owner of the gold
mines in the Ust-Kamenogorsk area in Kazakhstan. Grigori and
Sofia Lermontov lived in St. Petersburg (68, Fontanka Street) and
had two children Alexander (1908-2000) and Yuri (1910-2005). In
1913 Grigori Lermontov became a Colonel. He was a brave
commander during the 1st World War 1914-1918 and had many
military awards including the St. George's arms, a highly
prestigious Russian state award.
The Russian Revolution of 1917 was a disaster for many
people including these Lermontov families.
General Lieutenant Mikhail Alexandrovich Lermontov was
not married so he left the Petergoff and just disappeared never to
be heard of again.
Colonel Grigori Mikhailovich Lermontov was submitted
for approval to the rank of General just a month before the
revolution but he refused to accept this rank from the new
revolutionary government which he could not support, so he joined
the White Movement.
The White Movement was comprised of the Russian forces,
both political and military, which opposed the Bolsheviks after the
October Revolution and fought against the Red Army during the
Russian Civil War from 1917 to 1923.
Colonel Grigori Mikhailovich Lermontov fought as a
Commander of the White Armed Forces in the Ukraine, Crimea
and other areas of southern Russia, joining Baron Peter Wrangel’s
Army in 1920, a critical year for the White Movement. The Red
Army was winning decisively all over Russia. Eventually the
former officers of the Imperial Russian Army did not have any
other choice but to make the tragic and painful decision to leave
their motherland. Colonel Grigori Mikhailovich Lermontov left
with the Wrangel Army, sailing from the Crimea (which would be
the last piece of their native land that they would ever see) to join
the many Russian immigrants in their journey to nowhere.
Grigori’s family, relatives and hopes for a wealthy future which
were created by the hard work of many generations of his
Lermontov’s ancestors were all left behind.
In 1920 Sofia, Grigori Mikhailovich Lermontov’s wife, had
no information about her husband’s fate. She and their children
who were 10 and 12 years old had to survive on their own during
the fire of the civil war. They firstly needed to find a safe place and
finally settled in St. Petersburg as their house and other properties
had been confiscated by the Bolsheviks .
Sofia tried to earn money by teaching. The Lermontov’s
boys, Alexander and Yuri, went to the local Soviet public school.
Yuri Grigorievich Lermontov would later tell how he remembered
the terrible taste of salted fish and porridge that they were given to
eat every day.
In 1924 Sofia was at last given news from some friends that
her husband was alive and living in Croatia. Tremendous efforts
were made by Sofia to get passports and then to travel through
Europe. Finally the Lermontov family was all together again in
Dubrovnik, Croatia which would not have happened without the
help of friends and other Russian immigrants who shared the same
misery and suffering.
Life for the Russian immigrants in Croatia was hard despite
the goodwill of King Alexander I of the Kingdom of Serbo-Croat
and Slovene. Grigori Mikhailovich Lermontov had a small
business selling firewood; Sofia worked as a tour guide for the
small number of tourists who visited Dubrovnik. The family lived
a poor, simple life but at least they were together and they made
every sacrifice to send Alexander and Yuri to the Cadet Corps to
complete their education. In the year 1920 the leaders of the White
Movement made provision for the education of the future
generation of Russian officer’s children who had joined their army
and then had to settle in Croatia..
Three Cadet Corpses from Kiev, Odessa and Crimea had
been evacuated to Yugoslavia. In 1929 they were finally combined
as “First Cadet Corps and named the Grand Duke Konstatin
Konstantinovich of Russia” in the Yugoslavian city of White
Church. Alexander and Yuri Lermontov graduated from this Corps
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in 1928 and 1932 respectively. Grigori Mikhailovich Lermontov
had to solve many problems and troubles with his boys while they
were at the Corps. Their teachers complained about the Lermontov
boys poor abilities and awful behavior caused by the years that
they spent in the Soviet public school in St. Petersburg. Other
cadets were also very troubled and traumatized by the civil war,
immigration and the economic difficulties of life, as well as the
uncertainty of the political situation. As a result of the
professionalism and hard work of the teachers who were formally
officers of the Russian Imperial Army, the cadets, including the
Lermontovs, would finally grow up and became real officers, who
remembered their years as cadets, as the best years of their lives.
In 1936 Yuri Grigorievich Lermontov also graduated
from the Dubrovnik Nautical Academy and started his sailing
career on trade vessels.
Yugoslavia was occupied by Nazi Germany during the
period 6th-13th April 1941. The trade fleets of Dubrovnik at that
time were mainly at sea, which resulted in the main elements of the
fleet joining the Anti-Hitler Joint Coalition Forces. The ship in
which Yuri Lermontov was serving at this time was moored in
New York which meant that during the years1941-1945 Yuri as a
naval officer served on convoy - vessels sailing under the
protection of armed escorts. He was a First Officer and served on
the following convoys: Valletta, Malta; Murmansk, North Russia;
London and Liverpool, UK and Egypt.
Merchant ships going to North Russia required special
installations. Their bows were strengthened to give some
protection from ice. Heat coils were installed in both there double
bottoms and in water tanks to prevent freezing. The only ships
which could undertake the voyage were those which had received
this special winter treatment. The Armed Guard met its supreme
test in the long and dangerous voyages to North Russia. Without
doubt there were more hazards in these trips to Murmansk than in
any other kind of naval duty. Gales were frequent. Ice fields were a
common menace to navigation. Magnetic compasses became
completely unreliable. Floating mines were often encountered.
Choice of routes was limited. German submarines and surface craft
were able to operate from nearby bases. German planes could
shadow convoys for days and bomb ships from bases within
twenty minutes flying time of Murmansk. Before escort [aircraft]
carriers were used, only the weather and the guns of the escorts
and merchant ships stood in the way of wholesale destruction of
every merchant ship which ventured to the relief of the hardpressed
Russians. Convoys battled their way to the approaches of
Murmansk and then underwent constant attacks in the harbour as
they patiently waited to unload their precious cargoes. Cargo
handling facilities were very limited, and the constant bombing of
the city was not calculated to improve the situation (“Naval Armed
Guard Service: Convoys to Northern Russia”, Department of
Navy, Naval Historical Center, Washington DC, 2006).
Between his main sailing duties Yuri trained young
American sailors at their bases in the USA
In 1943 his vessel was sunk in the Atlantic Ocean. He then
found himself in the water in freezing weather conditions but he
was luckier than most and was fortunately rescued.
He became an American citizen during World War II,
which was an amazing turnabout, becoming an American officer
who fought for the Russian and Allied victory, being of noble
Russian origin. Yuri Lermontov was always proud that he was a
Russian and that he was a Lermontov.
In 1941-1945 Grigori Mikhailovich Lermontov lived in
Dubrovnik. He did not accept the German occupation and did not
join the Russian Liberation Army who fought for the Germans. He
did not support the new government of Tito and the Soviet-like
power in the former Yugoslavia. In his mind he was still an officer
of the Russian Imperial Army. He died in 1949 as a result of a
heart attack. As a direct descendent of Prince Muruzi, he was
buried in the Crypt of the Muruzi - Hanzen Families at the Russian
cemetery in Dubrovnik (Illus. 41).
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ound-the-world cruises and visited all the continents. During this
time he did all he could to help his family. After the death of
Grigori his brother Alexander Lermontov and mother Sofia
immigrated to Brazil, settling in Rio-de-Janeiro.
Alexander Lermontov, brother of Yuri Grigorievich
Lermontov, was an engineer. He married a Russian immigrant
lady, and they had two children Mikhail and Elena and six
grandchildren who still live in Rio-de-Janeiro, Brazil. Mikhail
Alexandrovich Lermontov is a professor of Mathematics and his
son and daughter are successful business people.
Yuri Grigorievich Lermontov made his last round-theworld
cruise in 1953-1954 (Illus. 42). His vessel “Panamante” was
registered for the last time in the Australian city of Fremantle on
17th March 1953 ().
In 1955 he married a young lady Lidia Molchanov (1928-
1992) (Illus. 42), who was a daughter of a Lermontov’s friend Yuri
Vasilievich Molchanov (1899-1974) in Dubrovnik and a cousin of
the author of this book.
Yuri Lermontov resigned his naval career and graduated as
an engineer. During 1956-1990 he worked for the Boeing Aircraft
Company. The Lermontov-Molchanov family lived in Seattle,
WA; Boston, MA; New Jersey, NY. They became a wealthy
Lermontov family again. They kept the Russian traditions of life
and hopes for the revival of a strong and wealthy Russia. They
were always proud to be part of a Russian noble family and the
relatives of the Great Russian Poet Mikhail Lermontov (Illus. 42).
Yuri and Lidia Lermontov had one daughter Tatiana (1958)
and grandson Yuri (1977). Yuri Grigorievich Lermontov died in
August 2005, and is buried in the Russian Orthodox cemetery at
Novo Diveevo, NJ, USA (Illus. 42) where American Molchanov-
Lermontov’s members of the family are interned.
Yuri Lermontov sailed as a Captain between the years
1945-1954 on the trade vessel “Panamante”. He completed eight
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We now return to the other sons of Nikolai Petrovich
Lermontov (see page 141) and their descendants from the
Ostrozhnikovo’s Lermontov branch.
Vladimir Nikolaevich Lermontov (1796-1872) (Illus. 43), a
younger brother of the Admiral Mikhail Nikolaevich (1792-1866)
had a strong and independent character. In 1812 when, he was
sixteen years old he slipped secretly away from his father’s Manor
and went to join the Russian army. Vladimir Lermontov was
noticed for his bravery in 1813 at the Battle of Dresden, where he
fought with his older brother Mikhail. He then participated in the
battles for the sixteen cities in Germany and France. Vladimir
Lermontov was decorated with many military awards and by 1827
had attained the rank of Colonel at which time he retired because
of his injuries. Although he had a Manor in the Chukhloma region,
he decided to go to St. Petersburg to continue his education. In
1831 Vladimir Lermontov graduated from the Army Engineers
School located in the Mikhailovsky (St Michael's) Castle with the
rank of Major General.
In the years 1836-1851 he participated in the building of the
first Russian (and the sixth in the world) railway between St.
Petersburg and the Tsar’s village called Tsarskoye Selo. Then
Major General Vladimir Lermontov was appointed the assistant of
military training to the director of the Institute of the Corps of
Railway Engineers in St. Petersburg. The Institute was founded in
1809 and was the only one in Russia that had the professional
knowledge of a qualified engineer, with the means of
communicating with people of high influence in St. Petersburg
including Nikolai I. He lived in St. Petersburg during the same
period as the poet Mikhail Yurivich Lermontov.
Vladimir married twice. Both his wives were from Russian
noble families. This Lermontov’s family was both wealthy and
well connected and had at least four homes in the city of St.
Petersburg. General Vladimir. N. Lermontov died in 1872 and is
buried in the Volkovskoe cemetery, St. Petersburg (Illus. 43).
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Maria (1840-1916), a goddaughter of the Imperator Nikolai I (see
below); Praskovia (b.1842), died at 1; Yuri (1844-1844); Vladimir
(1845-1919) (see below); Alexandra (b.1848-, married, fate is
unknown); Evgeni (1851-1855); Alexander’s fate unknown.
Both Maria and Vladimir Lermontov devoted themselves to
the study of science against the wishes of their father.
Maria Vladimirovna Lermontov (1840-1916), was a very
keen botanist and a volunteer student of the famous Russian
scientist A. N. Beketov. Maria and her cousin Yulee Vsevolodovna
Lermontov (see below) were good friends of the first Russian
woman mathematician, Sofia Kovalevskaya. Maria was loved by
her nieces for her kindness to people who were in trouble and
needed money. She had many valuable instruments for the study of
plants and a huge scientific library. In her testaments she left these
instruments and her library to the Department of Biology
Bestuzhevskie Courses, which was the University for Women’s
Education in St. Petersburg during the years 1855-1900. Maria
Lermontov died just before the revolution in 1917. She did not
openly join any political movements but she would have been in
favor of the freedom of women’s rights, particularly the right of
education.
He had ten children from his two marriages:
Ernest (b. 1823, only one from first marriage), died at 5; Elisabeth
(b. 1837), married, had son Vladimir Tishinin, fate - unknown;
Nikolai (b. 1839), godson of the Imperator Nikolai I, died at 1;
Vladimir Vladimirovich Lermontov (1845-1919) became a
physicist (Illus. 44). He graduated from St. Petersburg University,
where he later became a laboratory assistant and then a Professor.
He was mostly involved in the construction of new physical
instruments. He published several important papers: “Photographic
Process "(1877), "On the chemical and photographic action of light
"(1879) in the Journal of Russian Physic-Chemical Society. His
brochures: "Explanations of practical work in physics” (St.
Petersburg, 3 issues, 1908 – 1912), “Higher Mathematics for the
non-mathematicians"(1904); and "Methods of Physics and
maintenance equipment in good repair "(1907) were really
valuable and very popular.
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who was one of Russia’s leading metallurgic engineers. Nadezhda
Lermontov became an artist, having personal exhibitions and
collaborated with the famous Russian artists Leon Bakst and
Kuzma Sergeevich Petrov-Vodkin. Her paintings are still exhibited
at the Russian Museum, St. Petersburg. She died of tuberculosis at
a young age.
He married his secondary niece Ekaterina Antonovna (1860-1942)
and had five children: Elisabeth (1883-1954); Nadezhda (1885-
1921); Vladimir (1885-1941); Ekaterina (1889-1942); Alexandra
(1892-1964). Vladimir Lermontov’s family lived in his father’s
house in the St. Petersburg.
Vladimir Lermontov’s children were talented people. All
his daughters graduated from Bestuzhevskie Courses or from St.
Petersburg University. His son Vladimir Vladimirovich (1885-
1941) became a physicist. They all survived the revolution in 1917
but they did not join the Communist party and worked as
professional people. Elisabeth Lermontov married V. I. Tyzhnov
Ekaterina Vladimirovna Lermontov (1889-1942) became a
well known Russian paleontologist. Ekaterina was a graduate of
the Women’s Pedagogical Institute in 1910 and from the
University of St. Petersburg in 1912.
Beginning in 1921, Ekaterina worked on the Geological
Committee and later in the All-Union Scientific Research Institute
of Geology. She was the first researcher of Cambrian trilobite
fauna on the territory of the USSR and the creator of the first
Cambrian graphic scheme of Siberia. Her main area of research
was the trilobites of the southern Urals, Siberia, Middle Asia, and
Kazakhstan. Several fossil animals, algae, and biostratigraphic
divisions of the Cambrian have been named after her (Lermontov,
Ekaterina Vladimirovna. Kembriiskaia sistema. Moscow: N.p.,
1965; Bol’shaia sovetskaia entsiklopediia. 3d ed. Moscow: Izd-vo
“Sovetskaia entsiklopediia,” 1973). During the Second World War
she could not leave her sick mother and was not evacuated from
the blockaded St. Petersburg (Leningrad). In 1941, according to the
testament of her mother, she sent their family jewelry that was
evaluated as more as 20 000 rubles to the Russian National
Defense Fund. Among this jewelry was one antique piece, a
diamond necklace (fermuar) that was presented to their aunt Maria
Vladimirovna Lermontov (1840-1916) by her godfather the
Imperator Nikolai I. Ekaterina Lermontov died in the blockade of
Leningrad in the terrible winter of 1942, a year before her brother
Valdimir Lermontov who died there from inflammation of the
lungs.
Alexandra Vladimirovna Lermontov (1892-1964) was a
physicist by education, married to the famous Russian nuclear -
physicist Vladimir Alexandrovich Fok (1898-1972) who did
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foundational work on quantum mechanics and quantum
electrodynamics. He was a full member (academician) of the
USSR Academy of Sciences (1939) and a member of the
International Academy of Quantum Molecular Science. In 1999,
when the world physical community celebrated the centenary of
the outstanding theoretician, Academician Vladimir
Aleksandrovich Fock (1898-1998), the Institute got its present
official name: “The V.A.Fock Institute of Physics”. The Institute
of Physics is tightly related with the Physics Faculty forming a
unified complex for education and research. Alexandra
Vladimirovna Fok-Lermontov was in fact his assistant in the book
translation and an editor of many English publications. They were
good friends and a great help to each other. They had one son
Mikhail and a daughter from the first Fok’s marriage. Mikhail
Vladimirovich Fok (b. 1928) also became a physicist, Professor of
the Lebedev Physical Institute of Russian Academy of Sciences,
Moscow. In 2001 he said in his interview “My father - V.A.Fock -
is a well-known theorist-physicist. In this article it tells not only
about his home life, but also about his struggle against the socalled
“philosophers”, who did not understand the new physics,
announced quantum mechanics and relativity theory to be harmful
bourgeois idealistic pseudo science”. Those days were really
harmful to the development of Russian physics and genetics. Many
of them were arrested, and some died in the Gulag Camps. We do
know that Alexandra Lermontov was a great supporter of her
husband Academician V. A. Fok in his brave struggle for the
science.
Following is the dynasty of the physicists in the this
Lermontov family: Vladimir Lermontov (1845-1919) → his
daughter Alexandera Lermontov (1892-1964) → her son Mikhail
Fok.
names of the best students were traditionally written with the gold
letters on the memorial plaques. The name Vsevolod Lermontov
was recorded on those plaques in both establishments. V. N.
Lermontov served in prestigious regiments and participated in
many battles. Vsevolod Nikolaevich Lermontov attained the rank
of Major General in 1852 and that of Lieutenant General in about
1857. Until 1853 his family had both wealth and influence; and
lived in St. Petersburg during the same period as the poet Mikhail
Lermontov. In 1853-1864 General V. N. Lermontov was a
Director of the First Cadet Corps known by the name of Ekaterina
the Great, Moscow.
Among V. N. Lermontov’s three children was a daughter
Yulia Vsevolodovna Lermontova (1847-1919) (Illus. 45) who
became a famous Russian chemist – the first Russian woman to
have had a doctoral degree in chemistry.
Vsevolod Nikolaevich Lermontov (1812-1877) was a
younger son of Ostrozhnikov’s Nikolai Petrovich Lermontov. He
graduated from the Second Cadet Corps named Peter the Great, St.
Petersburg, in 1831. In 1846 Vsevolod Lermontov graduated from
the General Headquarters Academy, St. Petersburg. In Russia the
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Yulia Lermontova’s family were both enlightened but
puzzled by Lermontova’s early interest in chemistry. Her father did
not discourage it and even engaged private tutors for her. At first
she thought of studying medicine but the thought of suffering
patients horrified her. She applied to the Petrovskaia Agricultural
Academy (later the Timiriazev Academy), which had an excellent
chemistry program. Although she had the support of several
professors, her application was turned down as she was a woman,
so she made the risky decision to go abroad.
Yulia Lermontova was introduced to the young Sofia
Kovalevskaya (the future famous Russian woman mathematician)
by her cousin Anna Evreinova (she later became Russian’s first
woman Doctor of Laws). Kovalevskaya was also planning to study
abroad. Kovalevskaia came to Moscow, where she persuaded
Lermontova’s reluctant parents to allow Yulia to leave. In the
autumn of 1869, Lermontova arrived in Heidelberg, and took up
residence with the Kovalevsky family. Kovalevskaya, being
energetic and forceful, intervened with the university authorities to
overcome obstacles and Lermontova was allowed to attend some
lectures and to work in the laboratory of the German chemist R.W.
Bunsen. Anna Evreinova also joined them after an unsuccessful
disagreement with her parents to get their permission to leave
Russia. She just simply walked over the border under the fire of
the border patrols.
In 1871, Lermontova and Kovalevskaya left Heidelberg for
Berlin. There Lermontova worked in the laboratory of August W.
Hofman and published her first research paper. By the beginning
of 1874 Lermontova had completed her dissertation which she
successfully defended in the Göttingen.
Lermontova returned to Russia in 1874 and was greeted
cordially by Dmitri I. Mendeleev and other chemists. She worked
in the laboratory of the famous Russian chemist V.V.
Markovnikov for a short time, but later she returned to St.
Petersburg where she worked in the laboratory of the other wellknown
Russian chemist A.M. Butlerov.
In 1877 Yulia’s father died and because of the family
business she returned to Moscow. Butlerov tried to persuade her to
come to St. Petersburg to teach at the recently opened Higher
Women’s Courses, but she hesitated, as she feared that the
Minister of Education would not approve the appointment of a
women. She also cited other personal reasons. Butlerov however
was not satisfied and he blamed Sofia Kovalevskaya for exploiting
Yulia Lermontova by leaving her daughter in the care of Yulia
Lermontova when Kovalevskaya went to work abroad.
In 1880 Lermontova was invited to participate in a study of
oil, the new potential fuel which had been discovered in large
quantities in the Baku area, and had just stared to be exploited in
Russia at this time. As there had not been many original studies on
the subject, Lermontova and her teacher Prof. Morkovnikov joined
the Russian Technical Society. Lermontova’s last period of
research was devoted to service for the petroleum industry.
In 1870-1880 it was a rapidly expanding field where many
of the foremost chemists of the day were involved. Lermontova
was the first woman to undertake research in this area. Following
Markovnikov’s suggestion, Lermontova studied the catalytic
cracking and the pyrolysis of petroleum. In 1883, she presented a
report to the Moscow division of the Russian Technical Society on
this subject. Lermontova’s work had always a practical character.
She developed the original apparatus for the continuous distillation
of petroleum, which was highly praised by her contemporaries. In
this period she was considered one of the foremost chemists of the
day.
In the year 1883 Sofia’s husband died and in 1891
Kovalevskaya died. Their daughter Sofia was Yulia Lermontova’s
goddaughter so Lermontova took care of the little girl.
Lermontova had inherited the family estate, Semenkovo near
Moscow (Odinzhovo area). After 1891 Yulia Lermontova lived
permanently in Semenkovo. Abandoning chemistry, she turned
her attention to agriculture. Lermontova being a scientist was very
successful in the development of many branches of agriculture
particularly mineral fertilizer. She also had a small cheese
manufacturing business that became well known in the Russian
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and Ukrainian markets. Lermontova never married but she had
strong ties with her goddaughter.
After the October Revolution of 1917, there was an attempt
to dispossess Lermontova of her estate, but A.B. Lunacharskii, the
Commissar of Education, intervened, and she was left in peace.
She died in 1919. Lermontova’s estate was burnt to ashes soon
after her death, as were many successful Russian Manors during
and after the revolution.
Vasili (Basil) Nikolaevich Lermontov (1801-1862),
(Ostrozhnikov’s Lermontov) Colonel, Court Councillor, retired in
1851. He had a hereditary Manor Ivanovskoe and bought another
one nearby in Chukhloma. He was a very good proprietor and his
houses looked like small capital buildings with columns, oak
floors, antique furniture, a huge library and a gallery with more
than 80 paintings. The surrounding lands were decorated with
gardens, ponds and greenhouses. Vasili Lermontov was married to
a niece of the famous General Sipyagin who was Adjunct General
to the hero of Borodino, General Mikhail Barclay de Tolly who
was of Scottish descent. They had three children. Two died in
infancy but the third Gennady, survived.
Gennady Vasilievich Lermontov (1831-1900) (Illus. 46)
had an excellent education and served as an Actual State
Councillor. He had progressive points of view for the Russian
economy and was rewarded for his activities. Gennady Lermontov
married his cousin Maria Dmitrievna Lermontov (1832-1901)
(Illus. 46), a daughter of Major General Dmitri Nikolaevich
Lermontov (1802-1945) who was a younger brother of Gennady’s
father. The marriage between cousins was prohibited by the
Russian Orthodox Church so Maria Lermontov took a false
surname for the marriage ceremony. However Gennady and Maria
Lermontov had officially to correct their deception when their son
Gennady Gennadievich Lermontov (1865-1908) became a Doctor
of Laws and chose a diplomatic career. It was done by a special
petition to the Imperator of Russia.
Gennady Gennadievich Lermontov (1865-1908) (Illus. 46)
graduated from St. Petersburg University in 1888. He then served
as a First Secretary at the Imperial Russian Embassy in Rome and
as a Kamer-Junker of the Highest Court Yard (Kamer-Junker (cf.
German Kammerjunker) a courtier title). He was married to the
Duchess (Knyaginya) Varvara Nikolaevna Trubetskaya (1870-
1933) (Illus. 46). They both were fond of painting and were
members of the “Society of the Encouragement of the Russian
Painters” in Rome. They had three children: Nikolai (1901-1965),
Peter 1902-1950) and Sofia 1904-1957). Gennady Gennadievich
Lermontov died in Rome and is buried in the Lermontov family
grave at the prestigious Donskoy Noble cemetery in Moscow
(Illus. 46).
After her husband’s death, Varvara Nikolaevna
Trubetskaya-Lermontova lived in Lille, France. She was
instrumental in helping many Russian immigrants and organized a
dormitory at the Russian Orthodox Church for students. She kept
close ties with her Trubetskoi relatives who were also immigrants
in France, then later in the USA .
Nikolai Gennadievich Lermontov (1901-1965) was born in
the Manor Menshovo (near Moscow) which was owned by his
grandparents, the Duke and Duchess Trubetskoi. In 1917-1918
Nikolai Lermontov joined the White movement. In 1918 he and his
two cousins, Duke Vladimir and Duke Alexander Trubetskoi,
failed in an attempt to release the Russian Imperial family from
their captivity by the Bolshevics. They later all immigrated to
France. Nikolai Lermontov lived in Paris during 1948-1950, he
then returned to Russia where he was forgiven by the Soviet
government. He worked in the Kirov region about 500 ml to the
north-east of Moscow. He died in Russia and is buried in the
Lermontov family grave in Donskoy Cemetery, Moscow (Illus.
46). In 1924 Nikolai married Natalie Saburova in Paris and they
had three children: Anna, Alexander and Gennady who were all
born in France.
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Peter Gennadievich Lermontov (1902-1950) immigrated to
France and married Irina, a sister of Natilie Saburova his brother
Nikolai’s wife. They lived in Paris.
Sofia Gennadievna Lermontova (1904-1957) also
immigrated to France and lived in Paris. She was married twice.
Her second husband was George Konstantinovich Duke
Shakhovskoi (1895-1977).
Nikolai Lermontov’s son Alexander Nikolaevich
Lermontov (Illus. 46) was born in 1927 in Paris.
He became a very highly regarded professional of
Pedagogical Science, publishing several books. He worked in the
USA for some time but now lives in Paris. Alexander Nikolaevich
Lermontov is an active member of the association “Lermontov
Heritage”; he is a vice Chairman of this association in France.
Alexander Lermontov, through his grandmother Varvara
Lermontov nee Duchess Trubetskaya, is a relative of the famous
Russian actor Peter Glebov and the brilliant Russian producer and
actor Nikita Mikhalkov. He is particularly remembered for his
1992 Oscar-winning anti-Stalinist drama “Burnt by the Sun” made
in 1992.
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Kolotilovo’s Lermontovs
The Kolotilovo’s Lermontovs (Illus. 36) are the branch of
the family from which the Chairman of the Association
‘Lermontov Heritage’, Mikhail Yurievich Lermontov, is
descended. He is now a Director of the National Lermontov Center
in Serednikovo, a suburb of Moscow. Mikhail Yurievich
Lermontov is a popular politician in Russia (see below).
Vladimir Matveevich Lermontov (1807-1874) is a direct
descendant of George Leirmont (Illus. 36). He was a brave officer
of the Imperial Russian Army. In 1840 he served as the Adjutant
Governor in Kiev, Ukraine. He fell madly in love with a beautiful
young lady Anastasia Yanitsky, who was already married, so their
union was kept a secret. They had at least three children, Vladimir,
Mikhail and Alexander who were illegitimate and as such received
the surname Lerma. The name Lerma was not chosen at random,
as it was known that the poet Mikhail Yurievich Lermontov
believed a family legend that the name Lermontov originated from
the Spanish Duke of Lerma (1550-1625) (real name Don Francisco
Gómez de Sandoval y Rojas, better known as the Duke of Lerma,
“The King's Favorite” by Antonio Feros, Humanities, V. 29, N. 2,
2008).
In 1832-1833 Lermontov painted a portrait of what he saw
in a dream and gave it the title “Lerma” (Illus. 47). This portrait is
on display in the Lermontov’s Museum in St. Petersburg.
It is quite possible that Vladimir Matveevich Lermontov
knew this story and gave his illegitimate children this name. In
1858 Anastasia’s husband died and Vladimir and Anastasia were
married. Vladimir made every effort to legalize his children but he
died in 1874 before this was accepted by the Russian Orthodox
Church in 1893 and in 1902.
Mikhail Vladimirovich Lermontov (1849-1912), formally
Lerma and a son of Vladimir Matveevich Lermontov, was very
persistent in his wish to restore his Lermontov noble origin. In
1903 he started collecting all the necessary documents. In 1908 his
efforts were rewarded when he received legal permission to
become a descendant of the noble Lermontov family. This
permission also applied to all his descendants.
Mikhail Vladimirovich Lermontov served as a Collegiate
Assessor in the Kiev region. He married Antonina Zubareva (died
in 1924) they had six children: Vladimir (1874-1954), Natalie
(b.1876), Elena (1878-1941, immigrated to France in 1920, died in
Paris), Alexander (1882-1944), Alla (1893-1924, married Mikhail
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Chirko, they had three children. Chirko was shot by Bolsheviks in
the Crimea).
Vladimir Mikhailovich Lermontov (1874-1954) (Illus. 48)
had the surname Lerma until 1908. He graduated from a
gymnasium in the city of White Church, Russia. At the age of
seventeen he joined the Hussar Akhtyr Regiment. In the year 1896
he was the owner of a stud farm and a winner of popular horse
races in Kiev, Warsaw, and at the Tsar’s residences near St.
Petersburg.
In 1903 he was personally rewarded by the Imperator
Nikolai II with 5000 gold rubles. Vladimir fought heroically during
the First World War, participating in decisive battles and was
awarded the Gold Georgian Arm. By the end of hostilities he had
achieved the rank of Colonel.
He first married Alexandra Pototskaya (1880-1948) and
had five children: Mikhail (1898-1942); Vladimir (1899-1974);
Alla (1901-1986). In 1943 Alla was captured by Germans in the
Russian city of Rostov and was sent to a camp for displaced
persons. She was moved to England later and lived in Manchester,
England; Boris (1902-1918) was in General Wrangel’s Army of
the White Movement and died in the Crimea; Tatiana (1906-2001)
lived in Russia, married to the owner of the stud farm. Vladimir
Mikhailovich Lermontov divorced Alexandra Pototskaya in about
1910.
In about 1915 Vladimir Mikhailovich Lermontov married
Maria Vladimirovna, a daughter of General Vladimir Feodorovich
von der Launitz, who from 1903- 1906 was the Governor of
Tambov. In 1906 he became the Governor of St. Petersburg,
devoting his whole life to serving the Tsar and the Fatherland.
In 1905-1907 General von der Launitz fought aggressively
against the revolutionaries who attempted to assassinate him on
fifteen separate occasions. He was finally killed by the terrorist
revolutionary Kudryavtsev while leaving a church on December
21st 1906 (January 4th 1907 New Style). The Imperator Nikolai II
gave special orders to his trusty servant as to where the coffin was
to be buried. According to Launitz’s testament he was buried
under the Church altar in his Kargashino Manor, in the Tambov
region. In 1921 the Church and General Launitz’s tomb had been
desecrated by the Bolsheviks. In 2000 – 2009 V. F. Launitz’s
grandson Mikhail Yurievich Lermontov (b.1953) started a
restoration at Kargashino of both the Church and the tomb.
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In 1917 Vladimir Mikhailovich Lermontov was wounded
and became sick with typhus. Lermontov and his wife and family
went to live in the Manor Kargashino In 1918-1920 he was
mobilized by the Red Army serving as a director of the stud farm
that supplied horses for the Red Army.
In 1931 Vladimir Mikhailovich Lermontov was arrested
because he had been a Colonel in the Russian Imperial Army. He
was sent to a Gulag camp (for the construction of the Bellmore -
Baltic channel) for ten years. In 1936 he was partially rehabilitated
and allowed to live in Karelia, Northern Russia. Maria
Vladimirovna Lermontov with their two small children: Irina
(b.1922) and Yuri (b.1928) joined him and lived nearby in the
house of a kind but unrelated person.
During the Second World War Lermontov was sent to work
for the Defense Construction Service. He was mainly responsible
for the delivery of horses to the Russian Army.
In 1946 Vladimir Mikhailovich Lermontov received an
apartment in the city of Pyatigorst, Caucasus, where the Great
Russian poet Mikhail Lermontov was killed in his famous duel.
From that time some of Lermontov’s descendants came to live in
Pyatigorsk as they considered this place as the city of their fate.
Alexander Mikhailovich Lermontov (1882-1944), a
younger brother of Vladimir Mikhailovich Lermontov (1874-
1954), followed his brother and joined the Hussar Akhtyr
Regiment at the age of eighteen. Alexander Lermontov was also
fond of horse racing and competed with his brother Vladimir for
prizes. He bravely fought in the First World War 1914-1918 and
was awarded many prestigious military awards. In 1920, Colonel
Alexander Lermontov joined the White Movement, becoming
Governor of the Crimean port of Feodocia from where he
immigrated to the Kingdom of Serbo-Croat and Slovene.
Alexander Mikhailovich Lermontov participated in the
Russian Liberation Movement which is a term used to describe
Russians during World War II who tried to create an anticommunist
armed force which would topple the regime of Joseph
Stalin. In 1944 Alexander Lermontov died from his wounds in
Belgrade. Alexander Mikhailovich Lermontov was married and
had one son Mikhail (1925-2008).
The brothers Vladimir and Alexander Lermontov, from this noble
Russian family, in many ways represent the tragic fate of many
Russian officers who were separated by the Revolution of 1917.
They fought together against the Germans, the common Russian
enemy, during the First World War and then they fought against
each other during the Second World War.
Their sons Yuri Vladimirovich Lermontov (b.1928) and
Mikhail Alexandrovich Lermontov (1925-2008) being cousins,
could not communicate with each other until 1991.
Yuri Vladimirovich Lermontov (1928-2008) (Illus. 49), a
son of Vladimir Mikhailovich Lermontov and Maria
Vladimirovna, nee Launitz, graduated from the Military
Automobile Institute. His whole life was devoted to his military
career, serving in the Northern Caucasus. He retired with the rank
of Lieutenant Colonel, serving in the city of Pyatigorsk where he
lived. Yuri Vladimirovich Lermontov was an active participant in
the Association “Lermontov Heritage” headed by his son Mikhail
Yurievich Lermontov (b.1953) (see below).
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of the Grand Duke Konstantin Konstantinovich of Russia” in the
city of White Church, Serbia. In 1941 he joined the Russian
Liberation Movement (Illus. 50) and fought against the Yugoslav
Partisans, led by the communist Josip Broz Tito. Partisans were a
faction that embodied a blend of republican, left-wing, and
socialist ideologies, the main goals of which were the liberation of
Axis-occupied Yugoslavia as a federal republic, after the
deposition of the monarchy led by King Peter II.
Mikhail Alexandrovich Lermontov (1925-2008), a son of
Alexander Mikhailovich Lermontov (1882-1944), was born in
Skopje, Macedonia. He graduated from the Serbian gymnasium
and then took a two year course at the “First Cadet Corps by name
In 1945 he entered the Architectural Faculty of the
University of Munich, Germany. He did not complete his
education because he married Stefanida Svinarova and in 1950
they went to live in the USA where Mikhail Alexandrovich
continued his education, achieving an architect’s diploma. He
worked as a teacher, director; and then an inspector of the
Orthodox Church School in Lakewood, NJ, USA. He was always
devoted to Russian culture. In Lakewood he organized a charitable
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studio and taught children the fundamentals of classical Russian
art. He was a director of a private museum for the artifacts of the
White Russian Movement. In 2003 he passed all these artifacts to
the Russian Army Museum in Moscow.
In 1991 after Perestroika, Mikhail Alexandrovich
Lermontov visited Russia for the first time. He found his cousin
Yuri Vladimirovich Lermontov and his nephew Mikhail Yurievich
Lermontov and in 1991 they established the Association
“Lermontov Heritage”.
Mikhail Alexandrovich presented the Association and the
Lermontov’s Museums in Moscow and Pyatigorsk with a number
of his paintings. In 1996 he supported a memorial church in the
Kostroma region where the Lermontov’s early ancestors are
interred. In the USA he edited the Cadet monthly “Cadet
Pereclichka”, a journal for Russian Cadets abroad; illustrating
many books devoted to the memory of these Russian Cadets. In
his final years Mikhail actively collaborated with the “Cadet Corps
Fund in the name of Aleksey Jordan” established in 1999 by Boris
Jordan who is an American of Russian ancestry; Boris Jordan
assisted Russia's economic transition to capitalism in the early 90s,
assisting in the launch of the Russian stock market and the
privatization of state assets. His father, Cadet Aleksey Jordan was
the founder and a Chairman of the journal “Cadet Pereclichka”
until 2002.
Mikhail Lermontov married Elena nee Smirnova (Illus. 51). Elena
Lermontov is a rare wife who supports all Mikhail’s activities
becoming his supportive eyes, hands and mind. They have two
children and three grandchildren.
Mikhail Yurievich Lermontov (b. 1953) was born in the
city of Pyatigorsk. He graduated from Moscow State Technical
University by N.E. Bauman, PhD in engineering science “Welding
of the elements of nuclear reactors”. Mikhail worked as a
professional engineer at state run nuclear plants. In 1992, he
became a consulting specialist at the Russian Trust Company
“Energoatom” which is a nuclear power station operations
subsidiary of Atomenergoprom (The Ministry of Nuclear Power).
In 2006 he became a Doctor for the Development of Cultural
Sciences. Mikhail Lermontov is currently a Chairman of the
Commission for Culture, Information and Municipal Engineering
of Moscow Public Council and a politician (see below).
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Mikhail was always interested in the origin of his
Lermontov genus and the history of Lermontov’s Scottish
ancestors. He cordially felt a special responsibility because he is a
close relative and a full namesake of the Great Russian poet
Mikhail Yurievich Lermontov. In 1991 he organized a reunion of
all the Lermontov descendants who lived in Russia and abroad. As
a result the Association “Lermontov Heritage” was created and
Mikhail Lermontov was elected as Chairman. In 1992 Lermontov
rented the Manor Serednikovo (about 20 ml from Moscow in the
direction of St. Petersburg) for 49 years. This Manor has a
connection with two great Russians, the poet Mikhail Lermontov
and the reformer Peter Stolypin. The Lermontov and Stolypin
families were also close relatives. The poet spent four happy
summers there in 1829-1832. It was here where he wrote his first
romantic poems devoted to his first love and where he started to
write the poem “Demon”, and where he wrote his famous poem
“Desire”: “To the west, to the west…”.
In 1992 the Manor and the house were in ruins (Illus. 52).
The years of Soviet power destroyed the Manor that was a brilliant
piece of art that had been visited by the singer Shaliapin and the
composer Rakhmaninov, as well as other famous Russian people.
In 1992 the new Russian government promised to give
some money for the restoration of the historical Serednikovo but
these promises were never fulfilled. Mikhail Yurievich and Elena
Lermontov had to face the fact that they would have to earn the
money to pay for the reconstruction and restoration. The battle for
Serednikovo was long and hard, but by the year 2007, the Manor
had become one of the most beautiful estates in the Moscow area
() (Illus. 53).
It includes a main building, which is of the finest quality
architecture, the wings are for guest accommodation and a
beautiful avenue goes down to a lake and garden. There are stables
and a Church dedicated to the Metropolitan Alexei, just a short
walk through the pleasant grounds, In the principle
accommodation there is the poet Mikhail Lermontov’s memorial
room, also the reformer Peter Stolypin’s memorial room, also a
concert hall, and a library (Illus. 53). The Manor Serednikovo is
now “The National Lermontov Center”.
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Mikhail Yurievich Lermontov is currently an active political figure
in Russia. He is a leader of The National Movement “Our Russia”
and a Chairman of the Russian Forum “Popular Assembly”
(). Over the last years, these civil
organizations have voiced dissatisfaction with the national
administration. The main goal of both these bodies is to preserve
the Great Russian cultural traditions, to restore the power of
democracy, to improve the economy and to increase the standard
of living for all Russian people. The Popular Assembly has a
continuing dialogue with the government and represents the will of
the people from all over the country.
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Kolotilov’s Lermontov.
Lermontov-Kupreyanov-Ellison Link.
One branch of the Kolotilov’s Lermontov family leads us
to the United Kingdom, a motherland of the Lermontov family.
Francis Ellison is a lineal descendant fourteen generations
removed from the Scot George Learmonth (~1590-1634). Ellison
works in the City of London and lives in West London, by
coincidence quite close to the Russian Orthodox cathedral. He
politely sent me a story of his family that is presented below in a
shortened version.
A founder of this branch from the Lermontov side was
Pavla Matveevna Lermontov, a great granddaughter of George
Learmonth (~1590-1634). Her daughter Cleopatra married Yakov
Dimitreivich Kupreyanov (1754-1843). They lived in the Patino
manor that was located between Soligalich and Chukhloma in the
Province of Kostroma close by many Lermontov family manors.
Two of their sons Alexander (1786-1860) and Pavel (1789-1874)
became well-known Russian military men.
The older, Alexander Yakovlevich Kupreyanov (1786-
1860), was a Russian naval captain 2 nd class. He was always
interested in literature. Alexander Yakovlevich Kupreyanov’s
friends were important and influential contributors to Russian
intellectual society. After retirement in 1820 he built a collection
of books (or rather extended his father's collection), specialising in
military memoirs, history, medicine, linguistics and literature. His
great grandson, the artist Nikoli Nikolaevich Kupreyanov,
preserved from destruction by the Bolshewiks at least part of his
collection, transfering the library from the manor of Patino to that
of Selishe (in the Province of Kostroma) in 1914. It is now held by
the Kostroma library. Nikoli Nikolaevich Kupreyanov (1894-1933)
was a world- famous graphic artist. The collection of Nikolai
Kupreuanov’s works that was preserved by his grandson, Nikolai
Kupreyanov, is now valued at about million dollars.
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Pavel Yakovlevich Kupreyanov (1789-1874) was born in
1789 in Patino, Soligalich District, Kostroma Province. He was a
grandson of Pavla Lermontov and he boasts a comprehensive entry
in the 1903 Russian Biographical Dictionary. He was heavily
involved in the fighting against France and her allies in the
Napoleonic wars: in 1812, he fought bravely at Borodino and
received a gold award for valour. Kupreyanov fought brilliantly in
the the Russo-Turkish war of 1825-1828; in 1831 he campaigned
against Polish rebels. In 1848-1849 General-Lieutenant
Kuperjanov battled very effectively against the Hungarian rebels
and during this war he lost his right leg to a cannonball.
Kupreyanov recovered in the Hotel Goldenes Lamm in Vienna, the
“bel étage” of which was set aside for him on the orders of the
grateful Austrian Emperor (ill. 54). General-Lieutenant
Kuperjanov was awarded many Russian orders including the Order
of St George 3 rd Class and the Order of St Alexander Nevsky. In
1849, Kupreyanov joined the Russian War Council and was a
member until his death and in 1851 was promoted General of
Infantry and awarded the Order of St Alexander Nevsky with
Diamonds. In 1862 he was entered into the lists of the Finnish
Guards. He held all orders and was even awarded a Badge of
Merit with a gold medal for his work in recruiting for munitions
work; in 1870 the Alexander II gave him a diamond-studded snuff
box with a picture of the Tsar. Kupreyanov died on 23 rd March
1874 of pneumonia. He owned a house on Vasilevsky Island from
1846 to his death; it is still there, a few metres from the famous
Saint Andrew’s Cathedral, in St Petersburg. General Kupreyanov
is buried in the Dolgorukov family vault, Znamenskaya Church,
Lobanovo, Domodedovo District. Pavel Jakovlevich Kupreyanov
was twice married.
Barbara Kupreyanova (1823-1889) was the only daughter
of the general and the great granddaughter of Pavla Lermontov.
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Barbara was educated at the Smolny Institute in Petersburg, the
grandest boarding school for girls in Tsarist Russia. When Barbara
graduated in 1842 at the age of nineteen, she returned to her father
who was by that time in Riga commanding the Russian troops
there. In Riga she met Christian Heinrich von Wöhrmann (1814-
1874) and married him in 1844. The Wöhrmanns were originally a
Lübeck family, and two of Christian’s antecedents had been
mayors of that city in the eighteenth century. Barbara spent the last
few years of her life, after her husband had died, at the Mariopol
estate; she was accompanied by her youngest daughter Olga. She
had moved from Riga in around 1880 partly for financial reasons,
although she may well have felt she had little to stay for in any
event, as her husband and oldest son had died, and her eldest
daughter had long disappeared into mental institutions overseas;
her second daughter had moved to England. Barbara died in 1889
at her manor named Mariopol, Simbirsk region (ill. 55).
Christian Heinrich von Wöhrmann (1814-1874) was
Barbara’s husband. He was born in Riga as son of the Prussian
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Consul General Johann Christoph von Wöhrmann and of Cécile
Wilhelmine née Kuhlmann from Lübeck (see Rigasche Stadtblätter
1843, pp. 337-342). Christian Heinrich von Wöhrmann was
Consul General for the German Reich to Livland and Kurland. He
was the Knight of the Imperial Russian Order of St Stanislaus
(Second Class with crown), and of the order of St Anne (second
Class); of the Prussian Red Aristocratic Order (3rd Class with
bow); of the order of the Crown (3rd Class with a red cross against
a white background). He owned of the Comthur Cross of the
Imperial Austrian Order of Franz Joseph. Christian Heinrich von
Wöhrmann spent time in Paris and was at this time a friend of the
poet Heinrich Heine.
Christian von Wöhrmann and his wife Barbara Kupreyanov
had seven children: Paul, Marie, Cécile, Sinaida, Alexandra,
Barbara and Olga von Wöhrmann.
Vermanes Park in Riga, Latvia.
Christian Heinrich was the grandson of Christian Heinrich
Wöhrmann and Anna Gerthruda von Ebel. Anna Gerthruda (1750-
1827) came from a well-established German Baltic family. She
was certainly wealthy after her marriage and when she died she left
money for the establishment of the Vermanes Park, the largest park
in Riga, which was named after the family, or more particularly
her husband Christian Heinrich, and it is for this that they are
principally known in Riga to this day. Vermanes Park is nowadays
in summer as beautiful as it was in 1910. The Anna Wöhrmann
Memorial depicted on a vintage picture postcard (ill. 56). Her son
Johann Christoph von Wöhrmann boosted the bequest with more
funds of his own.
Relation to the Russian Royal family and the famous
Russian poet Vasili Zhukovski.
Barbara’s husband’s nephew Christian Heinrich von
Wöhrmann (1849 - 1932) (another of that name) married
Aleksandra Vassilievna Zhukovskya (1844-1899) who was the
daughter of Vassili Zhukovsky, the Russian famous poet and
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friend of Goethe. Aleksandra had an earlier morganatic marriage
(in 1870) to Aleksei Aleksandrovich Romanov, Grand Duke of
Russia (1850 - 1908), son of Tsar Alexander II of Russia by his
marriage to Marie Princess von Hessen und bei Rhein. Alexandra
and Alexei had one child, a son, Count Alexei Alexandrovich
Belevsky-Zhukovsky (1871 - 1931). Christian Heinrich von
Wöhrmann and his wife Alexandra had no children.
Marie von Wöhrmann (1846 - 1878) was Barbara’s second
child and eldest daughter; she was Francis Ellison’s great great
grandmother and Pavla Lermontov’s great great granddaughter.
Marie was educated in St Petersburg and was a great favourite of
her grandfather General Pavel Kupreyanov. She married Alfred
Armitstead (1830 - 1895). Marie and Alfred’s marriage was not a
happy one, as she had hoped to marry a younger man; when this
relationship did not work out, she was encouraged to marry the
older Alfred, a good friend of her father’s. The marriage blighted:
after less than twelve years with Alfred she was consigned to a
mental institution and passed the rest of her life in similar
institutions outside Latvia.
Alfred Armitstead’s family formed part of one the most
important entrepreneurial dynasties in nineteenth century Riga.
Alfred’s forte was banking, and he jointly founded the Riga
Commercial Bank, which was launched in 1871. This bank was
privatised as Rigas Komercbanka in 1995 following the collapse of
communism, was bankrupted by the 1999 Russian crisis only to be
bailed out by the central bank. It was renamed Pirma Latvijas
Komercbanka (First Latvian Commercial Bank) and became part
of Nord/LB, and now, under the name DnB Nord Banka,
constitutes DnB's Latvian operation.
Alfred Armitstead’s nephew George Armitstead was a
mayor of Riga from 1901 - 1912, famed throughout the City’s
history, and a successful and wealthy merchant (ill. 57). During his
rule, Riga changed considerably as George pulled no punches in
his desire to transform the landscape, destroying wooden houses
and constructing new buildings in the Art Nouveau style. He had
many schools, hospitals and a central market built, and set up
Riga’s Zoo.
George Henry Armitstead (1848 - 1942) was Marie and
Alfred’s eldest son and was born in Riga. He was Francis Ellison’s
great grandfather and Pavla Lermontov’s descendant four
generations removed. George Henry Armitstead was a wealthy
man, and moved to London in the early twentieth century. Little is
known of his life.
Margaret Ann Sophie Armitstead (1898 - 1945) was
George Henry’s daughter, Francis Ellison’s maternal grandmother
and Pavla Lermontov’s descendant five generations removed. She
lived initially in Riga, but before 1917 left with her father to come
to England and subsequently lived in London. She was apparently
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a fine linguist, speaking seven languages (English, French,
German, Russian, Dutch, Spanish and Italian I think) and broadcast
in Dutch from the BBC during the Second World War. Margaret
married Maynard Leslie Deedes MacFarlane (1895 - 1984). They
lived in both London and New York. They had just one daughter
Margaret, born in 1927.
Margaret Armitstead (1927 - 2007) was born in London.
She was Francis Ellison’s mother and Pavla Lermontov’s
descendant sixth generations removed. She was educated in
England and trained as an occupational therapist, but left to spend
time in California with her father in 1945 after her mother had
died. She did not like California and returned to England after a
year, completing her studies at around the same time as she
married John Harold Ellison (1916 - 2000). John Harold Ellison
was an Englishman, born in London to parents who came from
Cumberland and Norfolk. He studied physics and metallurgy at
Cambridge University and then served in the Navy in the war. He
became a lawyer after the war and was appointed a circuit judge in
1972, retiring in 1987. John and Margaret had four children, of
whom Francis was the third. All four are married and Margaret
had thirteen grandchildren.
Francis Ellison was born in 1959. He is Pavla Lermontov’s
descendant, seven generations removed. In 2008 Francis joined the
European equities team at Threadneedle, from SEI Investments,
where he was head of UK institutional business development. Prior
to SEI, Francis Ellison was responsible for institutional business at
Jupiter Asset Management and before that headed Bank of Ireland
Asset Management in the UK. Francis married in 2001and has a
nine-year-old son named John after his father. Elison family lives
in West London, by coincidence quite close to the Russian
Orthodox cathedral. (ill. 58).
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Prominent Learmonths.
John Learmonth:
Lord Provost of Edinburgh (1789 - 1858).
John Learmonth was born in Edinburgh. He was the
son of John and Elisabeth (Young) Learmonth (it is believed
that this family may have originally come from Fife,
Scotland).
We were unable to find any records regarding his education or
personal life, however in a letter written by James Russell to
William Forbes of Calender (1756-1823) he refers to John
Learmonth of Dean. (). From
this information, we can assume that John was an owner of
some of the Dean area north of the Water of Leith in
Edinburgh before 1823. He was a prominent merchant and a
celebrated coachbuilder in Edinburgh before 1830, becoming
Lord Provost of the city during 1831 to 1833.
His most famous legacy is the Dean Bridge (Illus. 54);
built by the famous Thomas Telford (1757-1834), constructed
during the time he was Lord Provost. This bridge, a
masterpiece in its own right, directly linked the roads to and
from South Queensferry and the city. It was privately paid for
by Learmonth, to improve the communication and transport
route through his estate and enabled him to develop the land
for housing (Illus. 59, 60).
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The 'Learmonth' referred to in the text refers to John
Learmonth, and was written and distributed as part of his
election campaign for Lord Provost:
ALL honest electors of this our fair town
Come listen to me, and I plainly will show.
How an impudent LAWYER, with wig and with gown,
By a good man and true, shall soon be laid low.
John Learmonths the man to defeat each vile plan,
In his quiet, unpretending, yet resolute way,
For in spite of their tricks, We will beat them to sticks,
And freedom and Learmonth will carry the day.
II.If they call him a tradesman," I merely reply,
That his is a better and honester trade than a lawyer,
Whose life's one perpetual lie,
And who sports just the conscience for which he is paid.
They may try to be droll on his place at the pole,
And many smart things of the sort they may say,
Yet there's no one but feels that we're now upon wheels,"
And that freedom and Learmonth must carry the day.
In 1837 the greater part of the whole Dean Estate was
sold to John, who had already been given the nickname of the
“Edinburgh builder”. In 1842 and1847, he acquired what was
left of the Dean Lands and barony.
The Broadside ballad entitled 'Freedom and Learmonth
Must Carry the Day' was advertised as a new song in 1831
which should be sung to the tune 'Lillibulero'.
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III. He is ONE OF OURSELVES, and has all his life been,
So that all can his talents and virtues declare;
And if at your leisure you walk t'wards THE DEAN,
You will see what a BRIDGE he has built for us there;
Your men of the law, With their jabber and jaw,
May be all well enough in their own roguish way;
But they'll talk for some time,
Ere they beat stone and lime,"
So Improvement and Learmonth must carry the day.
IV. At the old burgh system, the CLIQUE used to rail,
Yet now that at last from that scourge we are free,
They would fain make us o'er by a sort of entail,
To a junto of lawyers to hold us in fee!
But GIBSON & Co., To their sorrow shall know,
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That this is a trade which no longer will pay,
And it now shall be shewn,
And that freedom and Learmonth must carry the day.
V. Their English ATTORNEY, with forehead of brass,
Who's been kicked here from DUDLEY will scarce do for me.
Why, 'tis worse than the days of old WILLIAM DUNDAS!
Far worse than the tricks of the old thirty-three !!!
No, no, Sir James, no, We're not quite so low
As to welcome each minion of Althorp or Grey
Your OLD DUDS, 'tis clear, Will never do here,
And true-blue and Learmonth must carry the
VI. Then Learmonth forever! and down with THE CLIQUE
Who have sucked us so long , but have now lost their hold,
And who (as the song says) " tho' at their last squeak,
Still would treat us like Gatton or Sarum of old !"
JOHN LEARMONTH's the man
Who in liberty's VAN Goes forward as smoothly as on a
railway
And DUDLEY, 'tis clear, Will be left in the rear,
While freedom and Learmonth will carry the day!
()
Learmonth Terrace,
Learmonth Hotel.
Learmonth Terrace, Edinburgh
The Learmonth Hotel.
We hope that these Illustrations demonstrate that the
name Learmonth will never be forgotten in the Scottish
capital.
George John Learmont Drysdale (1866-1909)
George was born and brought up in Edinburgh and was
often described as a Scottish Grieg. A prolific composer, he
enjoyed considerable success during his lifetime although
today his works are virtually unknown (Illus. 61).
John ensured that his reputation as a builder in
Edinburgh would endure into the future, by giving his
surname to the places he developed in the Dean Estate:
South and North Learmonth Gardens,
Learmonth Terrace,
Learmonth Grove,
Learmonth Place on the map of Edinburgh dated 1925.
Learmonth Avenue,
Learmonth Grove,
Learmonth place,
Learmonth Gardens,
South Learmonth Gardens,
Learmonth Terrace Lane,
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Learmont’s mother could trace her lineage back to the
great Scottish poet and seer of the thirteenth century, Sir
Thomas Learmont of Ercildoune, better known as Thomas the
Rhymer. Learmont. Drysdale’s maternal grandfather, George
Learmont, was reared near Traquair House, where the Quair
and Tweed Rivers join, and was Factor to the last Earls of
Traquair for over forty years. This area spawned many
legends, ballads and songs, which the young Learmont learned
from his mother.
On leaving school, he studied architecture for some
time, but his interest in music led him to enrol at the Royal
Academy of Music in London. After his student days,
Drysdale taught for a short time at the Athenaeum in Glasgow,
but the remainder of his fairly short life was devoted to
composition. He produced a large number of songs and song
arrangements, a few orchestral works, some instrumental
chamber music, several operas and dramatic cantatas.
He spent most of his working years in London,
returning to Scotland only towards the end of his life. His
extant compositions include theatrical and orchestral works,
choral music, chamber pieces, numerous songs and folksong
arrangements, though few of these were published.
When the clergyman, novelist and folklorist Sabine
Baring-Gould published his colorful novel of 18th-century
country life, Red Spider, in 1887, it was so well received that
he was persuaded to write an operatic version. During this
period he was collaborating with fellow clergyman and
musician Henry Fleetwood-Sheppard on their monumental
collections of West Country folksong Songs and Ballads of the
West (1891) and A Garland of Country Song (1895).
Fleetwood-Sheppard agreed to provide the music for Red
Spider which, in reflection of its Devonshire setting, was to be
based on local traditional melodies. However, following a
period of collaboration, Fleetwood-Sheppard withdrew from
the project and Baring-Gould chose Learmont Drysdale as his
new partner. Red Spider was Drysdale’s greatest public
success. The work was extravagantly mounted and a first-rate
company engaged with Lucy Carr-Shaw (1853-1920), singer,
actress and sister of George Bernard Shaw, in the leading role.
During the autumn of 1898, Red Spider toured Britain
with a lengthy run that lasted for more than 100 performances,
but, sadly, it has not been staged since (Moira A Harris:
Learmont Drysdale’s Red Spider, Music in 19th-Century
Britain Conference: Abstracts).
As the result of the friendship which developed in the
1940s between Henry Farmer and Drysdale’s sister Janey,
who through the years had tried to promote her brothers works
whenever possible, she was persuaded by Farmer to donate to
Glasgow University Library many of Drysdale’s manuscript
compositions, as well as a number of published pieces and a
quantity of archival material. The Farmer Collection is an
additional source of material on Drysdale as it includes many
letters from Janey Drysdale to Henry Farmer concerning her
brother’s music as well as other topics (The Special
Collections Department. Henry George Farmers 1882-1965;
Collection, University of Glasgow; Kenny M. Sheppard
Selected choral works of Learmont Drysdale, Scotland’s
forgotten composer, Texas Tech University, USA, 1987).
Janey Drysdale was probably the first Learmonth who tried to
establish the connection between her Learmonth family and
the Russian poet Mikhail Yurievich Lermontov. Mr. Crocket,
her close friend, made a request to Russia in 1913 to find the
origin of Mikhail Lermontov’s family. The only fact that they
found was Lermontov’s Scottish origin.
One of the unusual and touching memories for all the
Learmonth-Lermontov families was George Learmont’s work
‘Thomas the Rhymer’ that was restored and orchestrated by
the famous Russian composer Edward Artemiev in 2007, for
the 950th Anniversary of the Learmonth surname.
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Robert Learmonth (1831-1886).
Robert Learmonth (Illus. 62), for many years was well
and widely known in connection with the handling of
machinery on the Great Lakes as a chief engineer of the
Anchor line, was a Scotsman by birth. He was born at
Kingston, East Lothian, Scotland, January 30, 1831, a son of
Robert and Christian Learmonth. The father, a farmer by
occupation, lived at Quebec, Canada, whither he had come in
1842, and where he died in the year 1886, at the age of eightysix
years, having been born in 1800.
His children were Alexander (deceased) Gavin, Janet
and Robert. Robert Learmonth came to Quebec with his father
in 1842, and remained on the latter's farm in that vicinity for
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about five years. Subsequently he removed to Quebec and
worked five years in Bissets Foundry, learning his trade of
machinist and engineer.
He removed to Buffalo in 1852, where he worked
about a year in Sheppard's Works, now known as the King
Iron Works. His first employment on the lakes was in 1853,
when he put an engine in the steamer Iowa, of the Evans (now
the Anchor) line, for the Buffalo Steam Engine Works. This
steamer was changed from a side-wheeler to a propeller, and
was commanded by Captain Pratt, with Almer Johnson as her
chief engineer. Mr. Learmonth ran her only one trip.
In 1854 he became second engineer of the steamer
Toledo, then owned by Messrs. Lee & Able and Captain
Montgomery, the last named being also her master. He was on
this steamer the full season, and the season following was
employed by the Buffalo Steam Engine Works to go to
Milwaukee to fit out the steamer Allegheny, built by James
Jones, of that city. On this steamer he was chief engineer for
two consecutive seasons. During the following three seasons
Mr. Learmonth remained ashore, and during those years had
charge of the machinery of Stewart & Shoemaker's distillery,
located at Black Rock. The seasons of 1860-1862 he
was chief engineer of the steamer Queen of the Lakes, of the
Evans line, and the two following seasons was chief engineer
of the steamer Pacific, of the New York Central line, running
between Buffalo and Cleveland. For the next fifteen years he
was master mechanic for Pratt & Co.'s rolling mill and blast
furnace. This company has been out of existence since 1880,
and was succeeded by The Griffin Car Wheel Company. In
1880 Mr. Learmonth was for three years U.S. local inspector
of boilers for the Ninth district, under the administration of
President Hayes, and located at Buffalo, N.Y. On July 1,
1884, he resigned that office to become chief engineer of the
Anchor line which position he held. During Mr. Learmonth
time as chief engineer three steamers belonging to the Anchor
line were lost. The Philadelphia came in collision with the
Albany off Point aux Barques in a heavy fog in November,
1893, and was a total loss. The crews of both steamers
attempted to get ashore in the two small boats of the
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Philadelphia, one of which being overloaded was lost; the
other, containing twenty-two men, reached the shore in safety.
The Winslow was burned at the dock at Duluth in 1891, and
was a total loss also; she was being unloaded at the time and
had very little cargo aboard. The steamer Annie Young was
burned on Lake Huron, about ten miles from Port Huron, in
1890, and was a total loss. There were added to the fleet
during this time four new steamers, Susquehanna, in 1886,
Codorus, Schuylkill and Mahoning, in 1892. Mr. Learmonth is
also the patentee of the Buffalo Feed Water Heater and
Purifier, an apparatus that has added greatly to the efficiency
of the marine boiler, and is now being extensively used, with
good success, on many of the largest lake steamers. Mr.
Learmonth was wedded to Miss Anna Frame, a native of
Leith, Scotland, who died in 1892. Four children were born to
this union, three of whom are now deceased; the other, now
Mrs. John Ferguson, resides at No. 200 La Fayette Avenue,
Buffalo, N.Y., where Robert Learmonth lived during his
retirement.
Learmonth Families in Australia
Henry Learmonth (1801-1891).
This is a short account about one ordinary family
called Learmonth who in 1865 emigrated from Scotland to
Australia.
During the 19th century several thousand families
called Learmonth and similar name variants left Scotland, in
search of a better life in Australia, Canada, the United States
of America, South Africa and New Zealand. We tell the story
of just one family as an illustration of the contribution that the
Learmonth families made to their new countries by their hard
work and Scottish traditions.
In October 1865 a ship called Morning Light arrived in
Melbourne Australia. This passenger sailing ship along with a
number of other similar ships specialised in transporting
people to Australia, Canada and the USA from the British
Isles. Amongst the passengers (Ref: B251 003) were Henry
Learmonth (60) his wife Jane Learmonth (60) (Illus. 63)
together with Henry’s youngest son Alexander Learmonth
(22) his wife Miriam Learmonth (22) and their son Henry
Learmonth (1) (Illus. 63). Also travelling with them was
Henry’s grandson Robert Learmonth (18) (Public Records
Office of Victoria) who came to live with his grandparents
after he was born in 1847. He was the son of Thomas
Learmonth (Henry’s eldest son) and Helen Henderson. They
travelled from Melbourne to Bullarook to join David
Learmonth (Henry’s 6th son aged 27) who had been in
Australia since 1857.
At this time Bullarook was a gold rush settlement and
was a collection of basic wooden buildings which would have
made life both difficult and uncomfortable. Today there is not
much left of the town apart from a few signs to say where it
was. Jane Learmonth died here on 12th June 1866 only 8
months after they arrived. She is buried in the nearby
Creswick cemetery, there is no gravestone. However the burial
record details the plot number and also the cost of the funeral
(£2) which in those days was a considerable amount of money.
We do not know the cause of death but the living conditions
cannot have been a healthy environment and may well have
contributed to her demise (Information from Warren
Learmonth Lang, Australia).
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Between 1858 and 1862, David Learmonth was living
in Spring Hill. However, in 1862 he married Mary King in
Bullarook where he then lived until 1864. He then went to Mt
Prospect where he continued living until at least 1882, and he
died in Kingston on 20 April 1900. The following information
is taken from: Victoria and its Metropolis Past and Present
(Melbourne Library Services), Letters From Victoria Pioneers,
Encyclopaedia of Victoria, The Selectors in the Parishes of
Bangerang and Areegra.
Soon after Alexander Learmonth arrived in Bullarook
he worked on a local farm for 18 months, and as a carter for
one year. He then selected 160 acres at Warra Warra near
Glenorchy and farmed it for seven years, but not being
successful, sold out and moved to the parish of Areegra in
1876. There he selected 160 acres and has since bought a
further 160 acres. He also holds 320 acres in right of his son,
and farms the whole. In 1887 he cropped 170 acres and also
runs sheep and is doing well.
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Alexander’s father Henry Learmonth, lived and
worked with him as a farmer. He died in Areegra in
September 1891 and is buried in the nearby Nullan cemetery.
Robert Learmonth worked on a farm near Bullarook
staying there a short time, and then on two other farms in the
same locality for 16 months and 2 years respectively. He next
settled on the banks of the Wimmera River, and selected 160
acres, but finding the land was no good threw it up after
farming the land for a little while. In 1876 he went to Areegra,
and selected 320 acres to which he then added a further 320
acres. He devoted the whole to farming and grazing, running
both sheep and cattle, and had been successful.
In 1877 Alexander and Robert Learmonth along with 7
other residents made a petition to have a school established in
Areega. This school began in July 1880 under Mr Horace
Sanders (The Donald Express dated 28th October 1887).
At the Areegra picnic and sports day the foot race for
Old Buffers was won by Mr R Learmonth. The reporter
writes: “How things and times change,10 years ago when I
first came to this place there were neither fences, water,
houses, or people, let alone a picnic and sports day” . David
Learmonth and his wife Mary had 3 sons and 5 daughters.
Alexander Learmonth and his wife Miriam had a
family of 5 sons and 2 daughters. Alexander died in Areegra
on 30th June 1920 and is also buried in Nullan cemetery.
Robert Learmonth married Sarah McClure at Areegra in 1876.
They had 3 sons and 8 daughters. We have made no attempt
to trace any of the descendants of these families. However if
this Learmonth’s breeding standards were maintained there
could now be least two hundred of them (The following
information was obtained from Hon Lord Robert Reed, a
descendant of Jane Broomfield Learmonth).
Jane (Broomfield) Learmonth’s brother Adam
Broomfield and his family also emigrated to Australia in 1852
on board the Wanata. This ship left Liverpool in June,
arriving in Port Philip Bay Melbourne in September. By that
time 33 children and 6 adults had died of typhoid or whooping
cough. The passengers were quarantined for 3 weeks until
there were no new cases. When allowed to disembark most of
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the passengers travelled to the goldfields of Ballarat and
Ballarook. When Jane (Broomfield) Learmonth died in June
1866. Adam Broomfield was in Ballarook, as it was Adam
who registered her death.
There is an amazing connection with this Learmonth
family line and the Russian noble family Bunevic: Rex
Learmonth (b. England 1937) the co-author of this book is a
gg grandson of Henry Learmonth and his wife Jane
(Broomfield) Learmonth, by their fifth son Henry, who stayed
in Scotland.
Valerie McDonough born in Australia is a gg
granddaughter of the same Henry Learmonth and Jane
Broomfield, by their ninth son Alexander who emigrated to
Australia in 1865. Following is the story of the Bunevic
family.
The Buynevic Family.
certain that they were starting a new adventure that would be
interesting and fulfilling.
Leonid Buynevic found himself in the Russian city of
Summu with the third company from the Polozhki Corpus that
consisted of the first, second classes, and included cadets aged
10 to 12 years. Leonid’s mother Evgenia Buynevic was living
in Summu during this period so he was able to join her for his
vacation during the summer.
There was a cosy little gathering of seven: Leonid
Buynevic, two brothers George and Vladimir Vishnyakov
(from Yaroslavskii Cadet Corpus. These two brothers
Vishnyakov are two uncles-in-law of the writer of this account
Tatiana Molchanova), two Rohmaninov brothers and also two
friends from the local school. They all had a good time
together as they were so young and full of hope. (Leonod
Buynevic Yesterday, Cadetskaya Pereklichka, USA, 1976,
#16).
Leonid Broneslavovich Buynevic was born into this
Russian noble family in about 1900. They were of Polish
origin. His parents, Evgenia and Broneslav Buynevic, served
in the Russian Imperial Army during 1914-1919 (Illus. 64).
In about the year 1912 Leonid Buynevic entered the
Polozhki Cedetski Corpus when he was 10-12 years old.
The Polozhki Cedetski Corpus was establish in the 1830 by
the Russian Emperor Nicholas I and was opened in 1835 in
Polozhk, which is in the Vitebsk province (“Cadetskie
Korpusa Rossiiskoi Imperii” by Vladlen Gurkovski, 2005,
Moscow, page 46-65). There were thirteen directors of this
corpus between the years 1835-1917, among them General-
Major Vsevolod Nikolaevich Lermontov (1853-1854).
The First World War started the displacement of the
Russian people and this displacement continues today.
Leonid Buyenevich wrote in his memoirs that the
evacuation of the Polozhki Cedetski Corpus started in the
autumn of 1914. The Cadets packed their belongings, left the
Corpus in a carefree manner, and marched along the streets of
Polozhk laughing, joking and with much merriment, feeling
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In March 1917, everything changed and they suddenly
started to have a very hard time. The revolution spread, things
got even worse with the death of Czar Nicholas II and his
family. All the cadets were touched by this event.
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During the summer of that year Leonid and his friends
tried to join the volunteer army. They reached the Austrian
front line but were caught and returned to Summu. Leonid’s
mother Evgenia Buynevic, left Summu and went to the war
zone as a volunteer nurse.
The fate of the cadets was dreadful and during 1917-
1919 they were dispersed all over bloody Russia. They stood
and bravely fought for the principles, which they had been
taught and held dear at the Cedetskii Corpus, and for their
beloved Russia against the revolutionary terror.
In 1917 Leonid Buynevic joined the Volunteer White
Army. He almost died travelling on the military ship
Kronshtatd from Odessa. Finally he reached Yugoslavia
where three Cadetskih Corpuses had gathered along with a
further thirty two Russian Cadet Corpuses. All the cadets tried
to reach Yugoslavia where they hoped to complete their
education. At the end of 1919 all the Cadets who made it to
Yugoslavia (mostly from the Odesski Corpus,Vladimirsko-
Kievski and Polozhski) were formed into the First Russian
Cadet Corpus at Sarajevo. In 1929 this Corpus was moved to
the city White Church (Belaya) Tserkov. Leonid Buynevic
had by this time already graduated. Sarajevo continued to be
the centre of the flourishing social and cultural life for these
emigrants. The South-Slovenian-Russian League was
proclaimed there a few years later. The year 1937 was the
100th anniversary of the death of the Great Russian poet
Alexander Pushkin that was celebrated by the Russian
community. This event further strengthened the League.
Leonid and has wife Shura Buynevic, were among
them. They also participated in the meetings devoted to the
Day of Irreconcilability which was a revolt against the
Communistic Russian government on November 7th the Day
of the Revolution in Russia. Leonid and Alexandra Buynevic
had two sons Leonid (later Leon) and Vladimir.
After the Second Word War the family moved to
Australia in 1950. Leonid Buynevic continued his career as a
draughtsman. He was also a good musician and finally
became a writer publishing his memoirs in the issues
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Cedetskaya Pereklichka (started in the USA in 1970). He died
on May 24, 1992.
Vladimir (Vlad) started his career as a cameraman with
Channel 7 on Australian TV in 1969. Since 1972 he has been a
freelance cinematographer and over that time he has gained an
enormous amount of experience, shooting film and video in its
many format variations. Vladimir Buynevic was fully
appreciated for his 37 years experience in the industry
(September 5th 2006: www.avpa.org.au). Vladimir is a Full
Member of the Australian Cinematographers Society.
Leonid (Leon) Buynevic met his future wife Valerie
McDonough nee Learmonth in 1970 in Australia. They
married and have two children.
A photo (Illus. 65) taken in 1972, presents Valerie
Buynevic with her first child in Australia. Valerie, a
descendant of Henry Learmonth family from the Scottish
Borders, married Leon, a descendant of a Buinevich family
connected to the Russian Lermontovs.
Tatiana Molchanova a relative of the Lermontov
family, together with Rex Learmonth decided to work together
to research and write the history of the family. The happy
result of this has been that links and connections between the
families have been created, and we feel sure that this will
continue into the future (Illus. 65).
Liisa Hobler’s nee Learmonth decsendant in Australia.
John Learmonth was born in July 1783 in Edinburgh,
Scotland. John left Polmont where the family had been
farmers and moved to Edinburgh. He became Provisioner for
the Army.
It is thought that John had a brother, James Learmonth,
living at Polmont. According to James great granddaughter,
Helen Woodman, James was born circa 1825-1830 in Falkirk
near Polmont. He married Ellen Gillespie about 1850 in
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Falkirk. Ellen was born 30.12.1832 in Falkirk. They had a
daughter Ellen Learmonth, born in Polmont on 22.5.1851.
John Learmonth married Margaret Watson on 9th
April, 1807 Edinburgh Parish, Edinburgh (IGI Record).
They had 7 sons, 3 of whom died before adulthood. They
were:
1.Alexander born on November 21st. 1809 in Edinburgh.
Alexander married May Ann Horncastle and they had a
daughter Jessie. He married for the second time, Mary Ann
Hanbury Williams, and had 8 children. Alexander died on
February 8th 1874 in Hamilton, Victoria. 2. Peter born
October 18th, 1811 in Edinburgh and died on April 2nd 1820
in Edinburgh. 3. John born on May 17th, 1813 in Edinburgh
and died on July 27th 1821 in Edinburgh. 4. William born on
January 31st, 1815 in Edinburgh. He married Mary Ralston in
1837 in Evandale, Tasmania and had 8 children. William died
on July 7th 1889 at Ettrick, Victoria. 5. Robert born on
January 7th, 1817 in Edinburgh. He died on March 25th, 1820
in Edinburgh. 6. James Allan born on August 31st 1818 in
Edinburgh, married Jane Holhitch and had no issue but
adopted a daughter. He died on June 28th 1873 in Heidelberg.
7. Peter born on February 9th, 1821 in Edinburgh, married
Mary Jarvey Pearson in 1854 and had 10 children. Peter died
on July 19th 1893 in Hamilton, Victoria.
John Learmonth died on 6th July, 1823 in Edinburgh
aged 40. Alexander Learmonth was born near
Edinburgh, Scotland, on 21st November, 1809. He attended
school in Edinburgh and on the death of his father in 1823,
when he was aged 14; he was placed in a bookseller’s depot
where he contrived to improve his knowledge by reading.
Some years later he joined the staff of a paper manufacturing
company in Limerick, Ireland, and subsequently went to a
better position in a paper factory in Wales. He later purchased
the bookselling business at Edinburgh where he began his
business career. The Scottish Book Trade Index (SBTI)
shows: Learmonth Alexander bookseller and stationer
Edinburgh 38 Howe Street 1834-1837. (Edin Dir; Pigot
1837). He married Mary Ann Horncastle. They had a daughter
Jessie Ann, born 31st January, 1838. Mary Ann may have died
in childbirth.
Alexander married again, a Mary Ann Hanbury-
Williams of Wyeside, Monmouthshire, Wales. His brothers,
William and Peter, succeeded in convincing him he should
immigrate to Van Diemens Land. So he sold his business and
went to Hobart, Van Diemens Land in 1841. Papers show that
Alexander arrived in the barque George with his wife Mary
Ann, baby Jessie Ann, as well as his mother, Margaret, her
second husband Mr Anderson and their three daughters.
Alexander became an accountant with the Cornwall
Insurance Co. in Hobart and was a frequent contributor to the
Launceston Examine a newspaper that did much to bring
Portland Bay, Victoria into prominence. A seal trader had
visited the area in 1828 and built a house there in 1829. He
lived there only for a short time.
Major Thomas Mitchell had crossed the area in 1836
and named the river the Grange. Edward Henty landed at
Portland on the 19th November, 1834, having sailed on the
'Thistle', - see report in the Launceston Advertiser 14.10.1834.
He became the first settler in Victoria and, with his brothers,
was responsible for the first developing settlement in
Victoria).
Alexander Learmonth was presented with a plaque by
"the friends of virtue and freedom in Tasmania" for his efforts
in the cause of anti-transportation. He spent 16 years in
Tasmania, at Hobart.
Brother William also had migrated to Tasmania,
arriving in 1834, and settled in Evandale, Tasmania before
moving to Portland in 1842 and becoming a successful
pastoralist. He was also a flour miller and had a pastoral
property and a stock and station agency.
William became the first Mayor of the Borough of Portland in
1864. Brother Peter came out in 1840, ran sheep on the
Tasman Peninsula, and went to the Californian Goldfields.
In 1857, Alexander and family moved to Portland in
western Victoria (Illus. 66).
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He took charge of Henty, Learmonth and Co,
Merchants. He also took over the management from his
brother, William, who had bought out Stephen George Henty.
Alexander was later to be taken into the business and managed
it until it was sold.
The town of Hamilton was planned in 1850 and named
in 1859. It became a Borough in 1863. Taking a leading part
in the severance of the Hamilton district from the Portland
Bay Roads Board, he was the first Chairman of the Dundas
Roads Board, which included the township of Hamilton.
During his term of office, he obtained a special grant of 3,000
pounds from the Government by way of addition to the
Board’s revenue, which at that time was negligible.
Alexander became one of the most prominent
men in the Hamilton District. He was the founder of the
central municipality of Hamilton, having initiated the petition
for its incorporation. He was the first Mayor of the Borough of
Hamilton. He held office in that capacity for six consecutive
years, and on his retirement from the mayoralty for the last
time in November 1866, he was presented by the Mayor, Dr
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Govett, on behalf of the council, with an illuminated address
and a cup full of sovereigns.
To his exertions the town owed the erection of a Court
House and Government buildings, the Hamilton Hospital and
Benevolent Asylum, the Presbyterian Church, manse and
school, and the Masonic Hall. He lent a friendly hand to the
institution of the Press in Hamilton, and for some time assisted
in conducting the Spectator in its early days. With Mr
Mackersey he established the Hamilton P and A Society, and
was one of the proprietors of the Wannon Woollen Mills
Company. He was one of the founders of a Hamilton Savings
Bank and was later actuary. He secured the opening of a subtreasury
in Hamilton and was the leading spirit in the original
Western Railway League. He was appointed the Territorial
Magistrate in1858, a District Commissioner in 1862, and
Government auditor in 1870, President of the Hospital
Committee.
At different times he was the Secretary of the P and A
Society and President also. He was Secretary and Treasurer of
the Presbyterian Church, President of the Mechanics Institute,
Patron of the National School, Founder of the Terminating
Building Society.
Alexander died in Hamilton on 8th February, 1874
from enlargement of the liver and is buried in Hamilton. A
public memorial was erected in his memory in the Hamilton
Cemetery. The Hamilton and District Historical Society's main
room is dedicated to his memory.
‘Mr Learmonth’s failings, which were but few’
remarked an old friend, ‘leaned to the side of amiability. He
was a man of genial, kindly and benevolent disposition,
always ready with no niggard hand to help the needy, often at
the sacrifice of his own personal interests. These qualities,
added to his sterling integrity and a considerable aptitude for
business, has caused him to be regarded as a sort of public
factotum whose counsel and assistance could freely be sought
by persons wanting advice under any circumstances of
difficulty’.
Pioneer Families of Australia contains several
paragraphs about Alexander Learmonth and his family in
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Scotland. Burke s Colonial Gentry has a section dedicated to
Alexander.
Peter Learmonth’s descendants at Hamilton have a ring
for sealing, belonging to the old Learmonths - a Rose and
Spero (hope). Copy of a letter written by Alexander
Learmonth to his brother William from Launceston, Tasmania,
November 1856: “My dear William, It seems you are in
doubt about some of your ages take the following: extracted
from our Fathers Bible (the big one) - Register of the
Ages of John Learmonth and Margaret Watsons children.
Married 16th April, 1807. Birth: 1.Alexander Born 21st
November 1809. 2.
Peter (1) Born 18th October 1811. 3. John Born 17th May
1813
4. William Born 31st January 1815. 5. Robert Born 7th
January 18176. James Allan Born 31st August 1818. 7.
Peter (2) Born 9th February 1821.
Death:
Robert Died 25th March 1820 Aged 3 ½ years Peter (1) Died
2nd April 1820 Aged 8 ½ years John Died 27th July 1821
Aged 8 ½ years. Mr John Learmonth, Father of the above,
Died 6th July 1823, aged of 40. Alex Learmonth, Launceston,
28th Nov 1856. 'Burke's Colonial Gentry' has a good article on
Alexander Learmonth. Some of the notes have been taken
from this record. There is also an article on him in the
Australian Dictionary of Biography and various newspaper
clippings.
There was another branch of the Learmonth
family who came to Australia (Australian Dictionary of
Biography, ).
Few Learmonth families left Scotland for London,
India and Australia. They inherited property from the
Livingstone side of their family and changed their name to
Livingstone-Learmonth.
Learmonth John (1812-1871), Thomas (1818-1903),
Somerville (1819-1878), and Andrew James (1825-1892),
early settlers were the sons of Thomas Learmonth (1783-
1869) and his second wife, Christian Donald. They were
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grandsons of Margaret Livingstone, heiress to her grandfather,
Alexander Mitchell, of Parkhall, Stirlingshire, Scotland, and
her husband, John Learmonth, merchant, of Leith. Thomas
Learmonth senior's eldest brother, Alexander, inherited
Parkhall, but died bankrupt in 1815, soon after Thomas, who
had farmed the customs at Grangemouth, left for India to
succeed the second brother, John, who had made enough at
Calcutta to return and buy Parkhall when auctioned in 1820.
From India, doubtless influenced by Captain Charles
Swanston and the Mercer connection, Thomas Learmonth
senior moved to Van Diemen's Land, where by May 1835 he
was a merchant in Hobart Town. One of his sons, John (M.D.
Edinburgh) was married on 24 January 1837 to Anna, second
daughter of Dr John Macwhirter, of Edinburgh; Thomas and
Somerville began at Port Phillip as squatters in the following
April. Andrew lived in Tasmania. In April 1845 he left for
England with John's eldest son, John Franklin, who like
himself became an ensign in the East India Co.'s army, but not
before 1850, when Andrew returned to Australia, pending
retirement after five years of service.
About 1845, shortly before he visited Britain, from
which he returned in 1848, John Learmonth, whose
headquarters had become Geelong, began to build a
homestead which still stands, on freehold at Batesford
acquired by his father in 1839 as successor with Swanston,
Mercer, and John Montagu to the assets of the Port Phillip
Association. This was called Laurence Park, after Thomas
Learmonth senior's former holding near Falkirk. Here Andrew
was in charge during 1854-55 when his brother was absent
again; but by 1859 he was once more in Britain. His mother
had died in Tasmania in 1841 and his father had suffered in
that period's general financial collapse. By 1853, however,
Thomas Learmonth senior was in Scotland with a third wife.
There he remained, succeeding to the Parkhall estate in 1864,
and taking the name of Livingstone before his own. All his
sons left descendants, and all returned to Britain before or
soon after his death. Thomas and Somerville
Learmonth, acting first as agents for their father and brother
John, led in the pastoral settlement of Port Phillip, and finally
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in wool production. They soon moved from Geelong to the
Ballarat district, and from their Boninyong station took up the
larger run of Borrumbeet. There, about 1859, with Andrew's
help in the planning, they completed their Scottish baronial
Ercildoun homestead, which apparently dates from 1854, the
year after Thomas responded from Boninyong to La Trobe's
request for details of local settlement, and the year before the
Boninyong station was let. Before they sold Ercildoun to
Samuel Wilson in 1873 and left Australia, no woolgrower had
better sheep than T. & S. Learmonth.
Thomas Learmonth’s report to La Trobe, with its
accompanying map, sufficiently illustrates the partners' drive
and intelligence. Ercildoun furniture in the Ballarat Art
Gallery displays their taste. They were strict Presbyterians,
whose departure has been attributed to their belief that they
were unjustly treated in the notorious case of the Mount
Egerton mine. However, as heirs of Scotland and India,
undoubtedly the brothers were versed in shrewd calculation
and finesse. Despite their close attention to Thomas Shaw’s
Australian merino, they were essentially, detached, investing
in sojourners, so as not to get inextricably entangled. Thomas
junior who finally possessed Parkhall, married Louisa in 1856
(d 1878), the youngest daughter of Major-General Sir Thomas
Valiant, and in 1879 the fourth daughter of Lestock Reed (Mrs
Learmonths uncle), of the Bombay Service, whose second
daughter married Somerville in 1860. Andrew’s wife, whom
he married in 1869, became Viscountess Portman in 1908
(Illus. 67).
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Other notable Learmonths who came and settled in
Australia.
Learmonth, William (1815-1889) and Peter (1821-
1893), pastoralists, were born in Scotland, the second and
fourth sons of John Learmonth, army contractor, and his wife
Margaret, née Watson. William, born on 31st January 1815,
was educated at the High School in Edinburgh and in 1834
arrived at Van Diemen's Land in the Tamar. At first engaged
to a firm of solicitors, he turned to pastoral pursuits and
developed Williamswood, a property near Evandale. By 1839
he had 14,000 sheep. Hard hit by the prevailing depression he
visited Portland, Port Phillip District, in 1842 and, encouraged
by an advertisement of cattle for sale at Port Fairy, left
Tasmania in August 1844. He bought many cattle and decided
to take up a run at Darlot's Creek despite warnings about
hostile Aboriginals. He took up 39,000 acres (15,783 ha) near
Portland and held the first license for the property which he
renamed Ettrick. In September 1845 he was joined by his wife
Mary, née Ralston, whom he had married in April 1837, and
their three children. He was then investing in sheep and by
December had begun to pay off his debts. Although the
commissioner of crown lands, F. Fyans, urged him to
withdraw because of troublesome Aboriginals, Learmonth
stayed on. He prospered and was able to invest in several other
runs. Ettrick became one of the best stations in the district and
he held it until 1880.
In 1854-1863 William Learmonth lived in Portland,
where he was partner of S. G. Henty in a mercantile business;
they also held a 15,000 acre (6070 ha) run near Hamilton.
Learmonth was first mayor of the Portland Borough Council
in 1863 and for years served on it and the Shire Council of
which he was president many times. He also stood for the
Legislative Council but without success. He was an enthusiast
for the Volunteer Movement in which he became colonel. He
was a keen sportsman and race-horse owner. He died at Ettrick
on 7 July 1889, survived by his widow and three children.
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Peter Learmonth was born on 9 February 1821 and
worked on an uncle's farm until at 19 he decided to join his
brother William in Tasmania. He worked on William's
property near Evandale for two years and then started a sheep
station on Tasman Peninsula. In 1848 he made a fruitless visit
to the California goldfields but in 1851 gold again attracted
him and he was successful at Forest Creek, near Castlemaine.
He then decided to raise livestock and managed Francis
Henty's Merino Downs station. In 1859 Learmonth turned to
flour-milling, building or buying mills at Prestonholme, near
Hamilton, and at Sandford, Byaduk and Penshurst. He also
bought land at Prestonholme and Dunkeld for his merino flock
and established a wool and finance business, P. Learmonth &
Co., in Hamilton. His last big investment was to buy a third
interest in the Nacimiento estate, Mexico, where he later gave
his share of 82,000 acres (33,184 ha) to two of his sons. A
practical citizen, he was an early member of Dundas Shire
Council and often its president. He helped to establish the
Hamilton Hospital and presided over its committee for years.
He also raised capital for founding Hamilton College and
Alexandra Ladies' College. He worked hard for temperance
and helped to bring railway communication to the district. He
died at Prestonholme on 19 July 1893, leaving an estate worth
£54,000 and was survived by his wife Mary Jarvey (d.1913),
daughter of John Pearson, whom he had married on 18
December 1854; they had seven sons and three daughters.
William's eldest son, John Ralston (1838-1911), was
born in Tasmania and educated by his parents at Ettrick. In
1855-56 he worked for the Bank of Australasia at Portland.
From 1857 he managed some of his father's properties,
becoming owner of Ellangowan station adjoining Ettrick. He
was active in municipal affairs, became a Justice of the Peace
in 1861 and was thrice president and eighteen years a member
of the Minhamite Shire Council. He also gave long service as
a Portland shire councillor. A crack shot, he was prominent as
well in horse-racing and for years was a breeder, owner and
judge at Hamilton and the Melbourne Show. He died at
Ellangowan on 11 August 1911. He was survived by his wife
Mary Jane Marshall, née Fulford, whom he had married in
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April 1875, by two of his three sons and a daughter, and by
thirteen grandchildren (Author: Michael T. Moore, Australian
Dictionary of Biography, http://www.adb.online.anu.edu.au).
Learmonth, Noel Fulford (1880 - 1970), farmer,
naturalist and local historian, was born on 22 February 1880 at
Ettrick, the family property near Tyrendarra, Victoria, son of
Tasmanian-born John Ralston Learmonth, grazier, and his
wife Mary Jane Marshall, née Fulford, from South Australia.
William Learmonth was his grandfather. Noel completed his
education (1895-98) at Geelong Church of England Grammar
School. He worked for the Victorian Railways (notably on the
Mildura survey), served (1902-03) as private secretary to M.
K. McKenzie, the commissioner of crown lands, and took up a
pastoral block near Gayndah, Queensland. After his father's
death in 1911, he returned to Victoria, named the land he
inherited Carramar and began farming there. On 26 August
1914 at St Alban's Anglican Church, Armadale, Melbourne,
he married Edith Mary Salter (d.1964); they were to have four
children.
Throughout his life Learmonth developed his skills as
a naturalist and local historian. While working on the Mildura
survey, he had sent paragraphs to the Bulletin which was
published under the pen-name, 'Leo'. In 1910-11 the Geelong
Grammar School Quarterly included two of his articles.
Learmonth’s contributions to the ornithology of south-west
Victoria, especially its seabirds, continued in articles in the
Emu, the Victorian Naturalist and the Bird Observers' Club
Notes, culminating in The Birds of the Portland District
(1966). In this work, and in activities such as the campaigns
for national parks at Mount Richmond (proclaimed 1960) and
Lower Glenelg (proclaimed 1969), he was assisted by
members of the Portland Field Naturalists' Club which he had
helped to found in 1945. His interest in bird-life earned him an
associate-fellowship of the National Museum of Victoria.
Learmonth’s first full-scale historical project had been
‘The Portland Bay Settlement’ (1934), prepared to mark
Portland's centenary. Following his retirement to that city in
1952, his responses to various requests for local histories
included The Story of St Stephens (1956), The Story of a Port
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(1960) and Portland 1800 to 1920 (1966). His final book, Four
Towns and a Survey (1970), included studies of several local
towns, first published in the Portland Guardian, and an
account of his time on the Mildura railway survey. His
pioneering work, meticulously detailed and lucidly written,
was recognized by life membership of the Melbourne
Anglican Diocesan Historical Society and a fellowship (1962)
of the Royal Historical Society of Victoria. Colleagues found
Learmonth a stimulating companion, 'his forthrightness
tempered with courtesy, his knowledge with wit'. He was a
member of the Bread and Cheese Club, and the Melbourne
Cricket Club. Survived by his daughter, he died on 9
September 1970 at Portland and was cremated. One of his
sons had died in infancy, the other two became heroes of the
Second World War.
Lieutenant John Learmonth, son of Noel Learmonth.
Today thousands of Australians visit Greece. Many are
Greek emigrants or their children returning to visit relatives in
the land of their ancestors. Others are simply tourists drawn,
no doubt, by the lure of Greece’s extraordinary history and the
country’s magnificent mainland and island scenery. Hardly
any of them miss the Parthenon before hurrying off to island
playgrounds such as Mikanos or the dramatic land and
seascapes of Naxos or Santorini. How many, one wonders,
visit Phaleron or Suda Bay war cemeteries and wander among
the headstones with inscriptions recording the presence here of
men from the 2/11th Battalion or the 2/3rd Field Regiment,
men from the 6th Australian Division who fought and died for
Greece and Australia? If they read the cemetery register with
its brief outline of the campaigns in Greece and Crete they will
encounter placenames such as Vevi, Aliakmos, Tembe Gorge,
Thermopylae, Hania, Rethymno and Heraklio, placenames
recalled by many Australian families in the years after World
War II. They might also ponder this passage from the diary of
Lieutenant John Learmonth, 2/3rd Field Regiment, written as
his troopship approached Pireaus on 29 April 1941: “it is only
a quarter of a century since the Australians of the first A.I.F.
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made history here, yet this was the cradle of history before the
Australians, or even the British, had come into being. I wonder
shall we in our turn add fresh deeds to the story of mankind,
deeds that will go down from generation to generation for
thousands of years to come; and I wonder also what new races
will rise up and fight their wars here, when we are as longdistant
and forgotten as the Ancient Greeks now seem to us.
John Manifold, well-known poet, wrote a poem in 1944:
This is not sorrow, this is work:
I build a cairn of words over a silent man,
My friend John Learmonth whom the Germans killed.
There was no word of hero in his plan;
Verse should have been his love and peace his trade,
But history turned him to a partisan.
Far from the battle as his bones are laid
Crete will remember him. Remember well,
Mountains of Crete, the Second Field Brigade!
Say Crete, and there is little more to tell
Of muddle tall as treachery, despair
And black defeat resounding like a bell;
But bring the magnifying focus near
And in contempt of muddle and defeat
The old heroic virtues still appear.
Australian blood where hot and icy meet
(James Hogg and Lermontov were of his kin)
Lie still and fertilise the fields of Crete.
Schoolboy, I watched his ballading begin:
Billy and bullocky and billabong,
Our properties of childhood, all were in.
They re the tradition, and tradition's strong.
Swagman and bushranger die hard, die game,
Die fighting, like that wild colonial boy
Jack Dowling, says the ballad, was his name.
He also spun his pistol like a toy,
Turned to the hills like wolf or kangaroo,
And faced destruction with a bitter joy.
His freedom gave him nothing else to do
But set his back against his family tree
And fight the better for the fact he knew
He was as good as dead. Because the sea
Was closed and the air dark and the land lost,
'They'll never capture me alive,' said he.
That's courage chemically pure, uncrossed
With sacrifice or duty or career,
Which counts and pays in ready coin the cost
Of holding course. Armies are not its sphere
Where all's contrived to achieve its counterfeit;
It swears with discipline, it's volunteer.
I could as hardly make a moral fit
Around it as around a lightning flash.
There is no moral, that's the point of it,
No moral. But I m glad of this panache
That sparkles, as from flint, from us and steel,
True to no crown nor presidential sash
Nor flag nor fame. Let others mourn and feel
He died for nothing: nothings have their place.
While thus the kind and civilised conceal
I heard the air though not the undersong,
The fierceness and resolve; but all the same
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This spring of unsuspected inward grace
And look on death as equals, I am filled
With queer affection for the human race.
Wing Commander Charles Learmonth. DFC and Bar.
RAAF: Son of Noel Fulford Learmonth (Illus. 68).
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The following information was taken from the
magazine Airforce News, the official Newspaper of the Royal
Australian Air Force, volume 42, number 11, December 2000
(Australian Beaufort returns from the grave by Michael Armit
pages 32-34).
Scores of accidents particularly in 1942 and 1943, in
training and operational flying, killing many aircrews, cast a
shadow over the Beaufort aircraft. This resulted in many harsh
words being spoken at No1 Operational Training Unit in
Victoria and other places, until the cause was found and
corrected. One Beaufort tragedy was the crash off Western
Australia of A9-346 captained by 26 year old Wing
Commander Charles Learmonth, DFC and Bar, commanding
14 Squadron, during formation flying practice between the
RAAF’s Pearce base and Rottnest Island in January 1944.
The crew of the second aircraft in his flight of three
was asked by Learmonth to come close and inspect his tail
plane as his aircraft had a severe flutter, making it difficult to
handle. They noticed Learmonth s starboard elevator trim tab
was free and oscillating, causing the entire elevator to vibrate
violently. In a second, AO-346 went into a dive and hit the
water at an angle of 60 degrees, killing Learmonth and his
crew. This accident should not have happened as the
authorities had pointed out, had instructions issued several
weeks earlier been carried out to inspect the tail plane before
all flights to ensure the elevator was safe until modifications
were made.
Learmonth flew his first operational sorties in New
Guinea in 1942. His pet Boston was A28-9. In March 1943,
despite repeated attacks by zeroes, led five Bostons of No22
Squadron in low-level strikes against enemy shipping in the
Battle of the Bismarck Sea, described by General McArthur as
the decisive aerial engagement of the war in the South-West
Pacific.
The RAAF base in Western Australia which was first
established during the second world war and was eventually
named RAAF Learmonth after Wing Commander Charles
Learmonth who was regarded as a hero when test flying a
Beaufort aircraft he radioed back to base the reason why this
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aircraft type was failing and killing the crews. Unfortunately,
just after his radio message he lost control of the aircraft
which plunged into the sea killing Learmonth and his crew
(The following information was given by John Kennewell
PhD, the Principle Physicist at the Learmonth Solar
Observatory, personal communications)
In 1945, it was decided to name the RAAF base
Learmonth in memory of Charles and the name was also
applied to the locality around the base. The airbase has now
also become a civilian airport that also bares his name
Learmonth Airport and it has a plaque about Charles
Learmonth in the entrance area (Personal communication,
historian Charles Page). In 1979 the nearby Learmonth
Observatory became operational which also took its name
from the same Charles Learmonth.
James Learmonth (1935-2002), Australia.
The autobiography and photos of Jamie Learmonth,
were kindly sent by his dearest wife Louise Learmonth in May
2007.
Curriculum Vitae:
James Crofts Learmonth, [Jamie] B.Arch., Dip. TRP.,
LFRAIA., LFHKIP Born, 5th April, 1935. Naracoorte, South
Australia. Educated, Victoria Matriculated, 1954 (Illus. 69).
Tertiary Degree and Diploma from the University of
Melbourne Address: 90, Victoria Avenue, Albert Park.
Victoria. 3206.
Unconventional as it may have been at the time and
without any clear definition of what I was going to do, I took
the decision not to follow my elder brother to be a farmer on
my father's property, but to look for independence. Instead, on
leaving school I took advantage of a small inheritance from
my godmother to travel overseas with a school master
returning to England, and another friend. This we did by
purchasing a vehicle, shipping it to Colombo, and then driving
overland to UK over a period of five months.
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That trip had a definitive influence by introducing me
to a world at large and the absolute difference between an
insulated upbringing and the opportunities and responsibilities
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that were attached to seeking to be a part of that world. In UK
I worked as a tutor in a private preparatory school in Surrey
and as a farm hand in Essex; travelling also as opportunity
became available and funds allowed, finally returning to
Australia by ship early in 1955 in time for the commencement
of a University Science degree [Geology/Botany] from which
later I withdrew because of declining interest and an
assessment that it was leading me in a direction that I did not
want to pursue.
In 1958 I took the opportunity to apply for student
work in the mines for the permitted span of six months in each
of both Broken Hill and Kalgoorlie, working underground
shift work during which time I decided to seek positive
assistance in getting a more reasoned direction to what it was
that I was going to do. In doing that I was recommended to an
Industrial Consultant who, after testing, suggested strongly
that I pursue a profession in Architecture. I was fortunate
enough to be accepted back into the University of Melbourne
where I commenced a B. Arch. degree. That opened a new
world where, through intense interest in something not
previously considered, study and part time work became an
occupation of preference and where success was achieved.
During that time student awards were made and prizes won,
including three successive Nell Norris annual bursaries and an
award in the Tasmania Timber House competition, and
vacation work was readily available with a major Melbourne
firm of Architects, Yuncken Freeman.
On graduation a permanent position was secured
working with the newly appointed Master Planner for the
establishment of La Trobe University at Bundaora as personal
and research assistant to Roy Simpson. That task was one that
sparked a long term interest in the architecture of educational
institutions: it was completed at the end of 1965 which fell at a
time when I again met Evan Walker who invited me to work
with him in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. Roy Simpson
encouraged me to take that opportunity and so I set off on the
great adventure of working overseas and taking that
opportunity to see and study the work of influential architects
first in Canada and the United States, and later in Europe and
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the UK. Evan had recently completed his Masters Degree at
the University of Toronto and was engaged with John
Andrews, another Australian architect, planning and designing
a major student residence complex at Guelf, It was a time of
major expansion of tertiary education development in Canada
and many further opportunities arose enabling a very broad
spectrum of experience to be gained. Ted Sheffield, a man of
considerable stature in the Canadian Grants Commission,
recommended that I seek an opportunity with UNESCO first
in New York and then Paris. This I did when travelling to
return to Australia and was immediately appointed to a short
consultant commission to review the development of primary
schools in and close to Colombo, Sri Lanka.
Returning to Australia was short-lived. Despite being
appointed an Associate of Yuncken Freeman with the
responsibility to again work with Roy Simpson on the new
Master Plan for the Australian National University in
Canberra, the firm granted leave to me to undertake another
consultant mission for UNESCO, with an economist from
Norway and an educational expert from UK, to study and
make recommendations for the relocation of the University of
Singapore to the Kent Ridge site where it now stands. That
was a scarce opportunity from which I benefited greatly.
Returning to Melbourne again was followed by a wide
range of appointments for Master Planning of Institutes of
Advanced Education at Churchill, Bendigo, Warrnambool,
Coburg and Toorak, the winning of the Royal Australian
Institute of Architects travelling Sisalcraft Scholarship to
study the newly emerging computer technology being applied
to Campus Planning, and the major appointment as Master
Planner for the development of the Tri Services Academy at
Duntroon, again requiring study overseas with officers from
the Department of Defence. A conclusion reached after all that
time was the understanding and strong belief in the ambition
to engage in professional activity that would see the
development of opportunity for the export of consultant
services abroad by Australians: one that had the added benefit
of having the consultant industry recognized also for their
ability to earn foreign income, rather than being totally reliant
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on local subsistence. It was, and remains of importance that
the understanding of the quality of professional skill available
in this country is equal to and very competitive with that
exported by other countries.
It coincided also with the invitation to live in Hong
Kong and to establish an office there as founding resident
partner for Yuncken Freeman. In undertaking that assignment,
1 was fortunate in being able to make contact with people
from within both government and the private sector who
recognized skills I had developed or had access to that were
not available there at the time. The result was that very
considerable opportunity was provided that enabled an office
to be established and a wide range of work to be undertaken
for landscape/resource master planning of new towns, the
urban design of new town centres each with a projected
population of about forty thousand residents, health care work,
multi storey housing development, work for the private sector
for banks, retail and commercial development and for the
Urban Services Department for the construction of social and
recreational infrastructure. In all I was very fortunate to be
supported by and have access to a large number of very
talented Australian colleagues who travelled to Asia to work
in our office and who gave unstintingly of their time and
enthusiasm to achieve a large body of work. That time also
saw the expansion of the firm to obtain work in the
Philippines, Malaysia, Sri Lanka and Indonesia, During the
time in Hong Kong I was actively engaged as Honorary
Secretary in the formation of the Hong Kong Institute of
Planners the prime purpose of which was to form a body,
acceptable to Government, to recognize planning
qualifications for locally educated students who, until that
time, were reliant on the need to travel to UK to seek
recognition by examination from the Royal Institute of
Planners in London. I was awarded a Life Fellowship of the
Hong Kong Institute of Planners in 1982. Returning to
Australia in 1981 after the dissolution of Yuncken Freeman
and the sale of the Hong Kong office to others, I joined the
Peddle Thorp group, head-quartered in Sydney, to be the
managing partner of their office in Melbourne. The firm was
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then very small and in a very difficult period for the
development industry in Australia. Again, I was more than
ordinarily fortunate with the support I was given by my
mentor partner, Graham Thorp, particularly in realizing the
ambition to apply advanced computer technology to the
practice of architecture. Peddle Thorp and Learmonth were the
first firm in Australia to acquire that technology, and almost
immediately others followed.
The opportunities to which I was introduced then
including most importantly, to Tennis Australia were of
pivotal importance to the future of the firm. It had the outcome
of being appointed as architects, with Philip Cox as associated
consultants, far the development of the National Tennis Centre
now at Melbourne Park, a project that achieved some
international acclaim because of the ground breaking
technology applied to its operable roof structure, a world first.
It was a project that could not have been realized in the time
given without the [then] sophisticated technology that was
applied to the project (Illus. 64). That was rapidly
followed by other projects of scale including the
redevelopment of the National Bank offices in Collins Street,
the Stock Exchange Building at 530, Collins Street, the Hyatt
Hotel and the World Headquarters of the ANZ Bank in Queen
Street, significant for the amalgamation of the registered
original 'gothic' bank into an integrated facility to provide for
the long term needs of that organization (Illus. 69).
Other projects included large undertakings for both
public and private hospitals, the State Sports and Aquatic
Centre and widespread work on private housing in rural areas
and for affordable housing for underprivileged people against
which PTL initiated and funded a research project for the
purpose of better understanding the nature of what is required
to meet the urgent needs of those living in poverty, and the
homeless, That enterprise achieved success largely because of
the support, encouragement and participation by sponsoring
organizations from the private sector and significantly, from
government.
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During this time also, work was undertaken involving
many other disciplines from this country in mainland China,
[Tianjin], Malaysia [Penang], UK [Wimbledon], the United
Arab Emirates in all of Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah and
Ajman, and in Saudi Arabia for the Saudi Tennis Association
During the last number of years I have been actively engaged
in the Royal Australian Institute of Architects as the Victorian
State Chapter President and as a National Councilor, far two
terms at the end of which T was the Honorary Treasurer. T
remains involved with the RATA as a State Chapter Councilor
[ex officio], as member of a subcommittee and as a mentor to
a number of students now completing their degrees. I was
made a Life Fellow of the RAIA in 1999.
I retired from Peddle Thorp and Learmonth in 1997
and since that time have been engaged as the Organizing
Committee Chairman for the Council on Tall Buildings and
Urban Habitat 6''. World Congress held in Melbourne in
March 2001; as advisor to the Bone Marrow Donor Institute
for the redevelopment of their property in North Melbourne
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for a palliative care centre for patients and their families, and
for the Royal Victorian Institute for the Blind for the further
development of their premises in Saint Kilda Road. I have
been appointed, [ongoing], to the La Trobe University
Building Committee to advise on matters of continuing
development and participate on a range of other committees
and boards in an advisory capacity.
Activities of current importance to me are in major
fund raising for the Bionic Ear Institute, regular duty as sides
person for Christ Church, South Yarra, and offering
advice/assistance to young architects seeking to establish
professional offices.
Louise Learmonth notification (Illus. 70): After Jamie's
notes were written he pursued his hidden talents as an 'artist" -
which he enjoyed enormously and was totally absorbed in this
was fantastic. There was still so much more to learn. In the
short time he spent painting he produced some interesting,
realistic and pleasing to eye oil paintings - he had hardly
touched the surface.
As a dear close friend of Jamie's commented "he
should have taken up painting, years ago". His new adventure
had quickly become his "passion". A man with a wonderful
imagination, whose integrity, gentleness and generosity will
always be with us. Jamie Learmonth died, 15th November
2002.
Captain (Acting Major) O’ Kill Massey Learmonth VC,
MC. Battalion Eastern Ontario 2nd Regiment Canadian
Expeditionary Force.
The only son of William Learmonth, St Louis Road,
Quebec. Mother Mrs O.M Learmonth c/o Nursing Sister S.W
Tamarch. 133, Oxford St London. For the action on Hill 70 on
18th August 1917 (citation reads). For most conspicuous
bravery and exceptional devotion to duty. During a
determined counter attack on our new positions, this officer,
when his company was momentarily surprised, instantly
charged and personally disposed of the attackers. Later he
carried on a tremendous fight with the advancing enemy.
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Although under intense barrage and mortally wounded he
stood on the parapet of the trench, bombed the enemy
continuously and directed the defense in such a manner as to
infuse a spirit. Towards the end of July 1917, the 2nd
Battalion moved into the area around Hill 70. Rumour had it
that the Canadian Corps was preparing a two division attack
on the feature, and the battalions presence added credibility to
the gossip. Hill 70 was located midway between Loos and Cite
St. Auguste, and although classified as a hill, the feature was
not nearly as imposing as Vimy Ridge but merely the highest
contour in the area.
The attack on Hill 70 began in the early hours of 15th
August. The 1st Canadian Division held the centre and the 3rd
and part of the 2nd brigades sallied forth to do battle, leaving
part of the 2nd and 1st in reserve. They moved forward on the
16th August under heavy harassing fire. Suffering numerous
setbacks and overcoming several obstacles, the 2nd relieved
the entire 3rd brigade at approximately 0700hrs on the 17th.
The 2nd Battalion held the new position and repelled a strong
German counter attack which stretched all four companies to
breaking point. The German attack on the morning of 18th
August marked the 2nd Battalions first encounter with flame
throwers. The Germans employed these fearful weapons in an
attempt to clear the parapet of defenders and the Germans
showed great courage in pressing home their attack against the
withering fire of the defenders but they were finally forced to
retreat having gained none of their objectives.
A particular valiant display was that of Maj O’Kill
Massey Learmonth, commanding third company, when part of
his line recoiled from a fierce attack. Maj Learmonth himself
bombed the attackers despite two separate wounds, inspired
the men to counter attack and repulse the Germans. Later Maj
Learmonth sustained a broken leg but continued to direct his
company from the bottom of the trench, refusing evacuation.
When finally forced to leave, Maj Learmonth first gave a
complete briefing to Lt Hugh Smith and then, although
mortally wounded, forced his stretcher bearers to take him to
report to battalion headquarters.
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Maj Learmonth, was with the battalion from the
beginning, was wounded as an enlisted man at Ypres, died in
the dressing station below Hill 70. For his courage and
extreme valour, he was awarded the Victoria Cross.
SirJames Rognvald Learmonth (1895 - 1967).
(Illus. 71)
While it is always a little risky to assign paternity to
someone, there are historical precedents designating a person
as the father of a given field of specific medical interest. For
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example, the general surgeon, Dr. Sterling Bunnell,
established the field of hand surgery.
Today, each surgeon completing a hand surgery
fellowship can trace his or her lineage, through the immediate
program director, to the first group of hand surgeons trained
by Sterling Bunnell. While we are unaware of such a figure
assuming paternity in the field of peripheral nerve surgery, the
contributions in basic science and clinical practice that
constituted the life of James Learmonth suggest that he may
be the first surgeon to devote himself significantly to the
peripheral nerve.
James Rognväld Learmonth was born on March 23,
1895, at Gatehouse-of Fleet, Kirkcudbrightshire, Scotland, the
eldest son of William Learmonth and Kathleen Macosquin
Craig. His father, a native of Edinburgh, was the head master
of the parish school of Girthon. His mother came from
Coleraine, Northern Ireland. His middle name, with its
Scandinavian spelling, was used by his family and friends for
many years. He attended the Kilmarnock Academy from 1909
through1912, and began his medical studies at the University
of Glasgow in 1913, only to have them interrupted for duty in
World War I.
He served in the Kings Own Scottish Borderers, with
combat duty in France. Thereafter, he was officer in charge of
the Anti-Gas School, Scottish Command. He returned to
complete his medical education in Glasgow, receiving the
MB, Ch. B. degree, and the Burton Memorial Prize as the
most distinguished graduate in medicine in 1921. He stayed on
to be resident physician and surgeon at the Western Infirmary
in Glasgow, from 1921 through 1923, culminating in a final
year from 1923 to 1924 as assistant to Sir Archibald Young,
Professor of Surgery in the Dispensary at Glasgow University.
In 1924 he received a fellowship from the Rockefeller
Foundation, as well as one from the Medical Research
Council. He used these fellowships to study neurological
surgery under the direction of Dr. Alfred W. Adson at the
Mayo Clinic. While there, he met Charlotte N. Bundy, and
they were married on June 25, 1925. In the summer of 1925,
he returned to Scotland to obtain a master’s degree, Ch. M.,
- 241 -
which he received with high commendation in 1927. His
thesis was on the pathology of spinal tumors.
In 1928, he was elected a Fellow of the Royal College
of Surgeons, Edinburgh (FRCSE).
In 1928, Dr. William J. Mayo invited Learmonth to
join his staff. Learmonth took the post as Associate Professor
of Neurologic Surgery at the University of Minnesota, where
he served through 1932. This was a productive time in which
he did research on the role of the sympathetic nervous system
in peripheral vascular disease and pelvic dysfunction,
including the innervations of the bladder. He published about
24 papers during this time. In 1932, at the age of 37,
Learmonth returned to Scotland to become Regius Professor
of Surgery at the University of Aberdeen. He was also the
consulting neurologic surgeon at the Royal Hospital for Sick
Children and the consulting surgeon at the Municipal Hospital.
In 1939, he moved to Edinburgh, where he was
Professor of Systematic Surgery at the University of
Edinburgh. During World War II, Learmonth organized the
Gogaburn Hospital for the treatment of peripheral nerve and
vascular injuries. After the war, he organized separate units in
Edinburgh for vascular, pediatric, plastic, and urologic
surgery. For this wartime work, he was made a Commander of
the British Empire (C.B.E.).
In 1946, he was appointed to the Regius Chair of
Clinical Surgery and in 1948; he became the President of the
Association of Surgeons of Great Britain and Ireland.
Learmonth was called to the service of King George VI
at Buckingham Palace; the patient was suffering with ischemia
of his right leg. Learmonth performed a lumbar
sympathectomy on March 12, 1949. The King lived three
more years, ultimately succumbing to carcinoma of the lung.
Thereafter, Learmonth was knighted (K.C.V.O.) and
was made a Chevalier of the Legion of Honour.
In 1962, he was made Extra Surgeon to Queen
Elizabeth II in Scotland. Other awards included an Hon. FACS
in 1949, an Hon. LLD, Glasgow in 1949, the Lister Medal for
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distinguished contribution to surgical science in 1951, an Hon.
FRACS in 1954, an Hon. LLD, St. Andrew s in 1956, an Hon.,
DSc., Sydney in 1956, an Hon. LLD, Edinburgh in 1965, and
the Outstanding Achievement Award of the University of
Minnesota, awarded in 1964 at the Mayo Clinic Centennial
Convocation.
He served on the Editorial Board for Great Britain for
Surgery, Gynaecology and Obstetrics from 1938 through
1954. His contemporaries on that Board, under the leadership
of Loyal Davis, were William J. Mayo, Harvey Cushing, John
M. T. Finney, George Crile and later, Alfred Blalock and
Frank H. Lahey.
He was honoured also by giving several named
lectures. The range of his chosen topics is of interest. The
1947 Heath Clark lecture was entitled Contribution of Surgery
to Public Health. The 1951 Harveian Oration was entitled
Surgery of the Spleen. The 1953 Linacre Lecture was entitled
the Fabric of Surgery. Of particular interest is the title of
Learmonth 1954 Paget Lecture: Surgeons Debt to Animal
Experiment.
In 1956, he retired from the University of Edinburgh to
a country home in Broughton. His scientific publications
included one book and 118 papers. He served as Assessor of
the General Council of the Court at the University of Glasgow
from 1960 through 1966. He died on September 27, 1967
of bronchial carcinoma in Ardbucho, Broughton-Biggar,
Lanarkshire, Scotland, where he was cremated and buried.
James Learmonth was survived by his wife, a daughter, Jean,
and a son, James William.
His hobbies included gardening, reading (biographies
and history), an occasional game of golf (he is reported to
have scored a hole in one on the Spey Bay course), and
watching cricket. The comments of peers at the time of
Learmonths appointment as Professor in Edinburgh are of
interest. Sir Archibald Young, with whom Learmonth had
worked at the end of his residency in Glasgow, stated, his
work on the sympathetic nervous system, and hitherto most
intractable conditions of the bladder and large bowel, has
made him a man of mark, whose further achievements in this
- 243 -
line of research surgeons all over the world anticipate with
considerable hope. Sir Charles Ballance, who with Duel wrote
the classic work on facial nerve reconstruction in 1931, and
who at the time of this quote was consultant at St. Thomas
Hospital in London and the Lister medalist of the Royal
College of Surgeons, wrote that Learmonth was one of the
leaders of the younger group of neurological surgeons and the
University that selects him for the Chair of Surgery will make
a wise choice, which coming years will amply justify.
In a letter to the editor of the Mayo Alumnus, written
on January 19, 1967, shortly before his death, Learmonth
wrote about the model he used to describe the qualities
desirable in the staff of a scientific department. He wrote that
he found these had been enumerated by Francis Bacon about
350 years earlier. Although Learmonth does not state which
parts of what follows were exactly Bacon’s words, most likely
only those italicized are, since the inclusion of John Hunter s
quote to explain further the italicized header could not have
been included by Bacon, who preceded Hunter, nor the
comment about computers (“James Learmonth the first
peripheral nerve surgeon” by A. Lee Dellon and Peter C.
Amadio, Journal of Reconstructive Microsurgery, v. 16, #3,
pp. 213-217, 2000).
James William Frederic Learmonth (1939 2003):
(Son of Sir James Rognvald Learmonth) (Illus. 72).
He was born in Aberdeen Scotland, educated at an
Episcopalian boarding school in Perthshire Scotland. He read
classics at Edinburgh University and later read English at
Gonville and Caius Cambridge. His mother was American and
he enjoyed dual nationality.
He was an Educationist who was determined to help
disadvantage students. His first job was at Eltham Green
School inner London where taught low-achieving pupils.
With his first wife Clare Marriot a social worker he sheltered
and subsequently fostered three children. He also had three
children of his own.
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Learmonth was as effective as a teacher. He was
appointed a Schools Council research fellow and seconded to
Leicester Universitys Centre for Mass Communications. He
wrote textbooks and anthologies for use with lower-achieving
pupils. He was appointed as head of George Green
Community School in 1975. His success led to his
appointment in 1980 as an Inspector of Schools. He worked
for a time in America examining their approaches in inner city
schools.
He wrote papers on the influence of television on
children and was a member of the working group created by
the British Film Institute to look into media education. In
1989 he was appointed Deputy Director and Chief Inspector of
Schools in Richmond. He was also editor of an influential
publication called Teaching and Learning. He later worked as
an Educational Consultant in Britain and abroad. His final
appointment in 1997 was to establish The Centre for
Educational Leadership and School Improvement at
Canterbury Christ Church University College, which has since
become a byword for school improvement. James Learmonth
educationist was born on April 19th 1939. He died of cancer
on August 8 2003, age of 64
- 245 -
().
James was a gifted and influential educational
practitioner with a wide range of interests: in media education,
in inspection and advisory work, in schooling for the
disadvantaged, in educational leadership and school
improvement, and in international links. He wrote books on
these themes, and contributed greatly in many ways to their
furtherance. He set up the Centre for Educational Leadership
and School Improvement at Christ Church University College,
Canterbury. James was always puzzled and sad that the gap
between rich and poor had widened, in the UK and globally,
during the second half of the twentieth century; he believed
strongly that education was a key to greater inclusion, social
stability and international co-operation. He also believed that
teachers and educational leaders can only be effective if they
continue learning. James died of cancer in 2003. His wife
Maggie, his family and numerous colleagues and friends have
considered what he would have wanted to do if he had had
more time. He had already forged international links with the
US, Australia and Hong Kong; he had hoped to extend these
to bring help to less advantaged urban areas in other parts of
the world. To help carry out this ambition they have decided
to establish a James Learmonth Scholarship that would
support students, teachers and educational leaders in southern
African countries to pursue studies in education. The
scholarship fund, like other similar scholarships, will be
administered by the Canon Collins Educational Trust for
Southern Africa, and will have charitable status. The Fund will
be used to support study and research in the fields of
educational leadership and school improvement, especially in
urban areas. 'A man lives for as long as we carry him inside
us, for as long as we carry the harvest of his dreams; for as
long as we ourselves live, holding memories in common, a
man lives.' (Pablo Neruda) (http://news.independent.co.uk).
- 246 -

Roger Learmonth.
Roger is a computer scientist whose achievements in
the sphere of the applied computer technologies in 1981 are
still making him one of the well-known computer scientist in
the world.
Roger Learmonth and his companion Rainer Burchett
worked for the Business Information System Group (BIS
Group that became part of the Nynex phone company and
currently is part of the Verizon wireless) based in London
until 1977, when they left to set up their own database design
firm Learmonth & Burchett Management Systems (LBMS) in
London. LBMS was one of around 40 companies that
responded to the British government's invitation to supply a
methodology for all its departments.
Learmonth and Burchett Management Systems of
London won a contract in 1981 to supply the British
government with a software development methodology for all
government offices and departments. LBMS went on to
become the supplier of the methodology mandated by the U.K.
government for all public sector projects, and is still the most
widely-used by the U.K. private sector as well.
LBMS won with its Structured Systems Analysis and
Design Method (SSADM), mainly because of good references
from users of its database products and because its approach
fit well with the Michael Jackson structured programming
techniques, then popular in the U.K. "We never made a lot of
money out of SSADM, but it made us very well-known in this
country," said Roger Learmonth, LBMS's CEO in 1992.
It became even clear sixteen years later that SSADM
and its versions is still the most popular program all over the
world. Not only was the methodology itself successful, but it
stimulated in the U.K. the general acceptance of a more
disciplined attitude to systems development. Approximately
two-thirds of U.K. computer users now employ a methodology
of some sort, with much of that growth coming in the last four
years.
This acceptance of methodologies also set the stage for
the successful adoption of computer-aided software
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engineering (Case) tools. SSDAM has since been further
developed by the government's Central Computer and
Telecommunications Agency (CCTA), with help from many
companies. The latest version of SSADM, Version 4, covers
the complete life cycle of development from feasibility study
through physical design. It also involves end users much more
integrally in the production process (Software Magazine, Jan,
1992 by George Black). A methodology such as SSADM has
gained popularity for its strengths in comparison to its
weaknesses. Its strengths, as mentioned before, would lie in its
three techniques, which cover all aspects of a system, and
forces the developer not only to understand the system in its
entirety but also to review the different phases continuously as
development progresses. The SSADM process constantly
makes reference to the human components of the system,
guiding user and stakeholder decisions. This means that at
implementation the system developed should be the most
appropriate and relevant solution to the issues identified. Like
any other methodology, the success of a project relies on the
scope, experience and world-view of the developer, consultant
or intended problem solver. Senior Lecturer in Informatics and
Cognitive Science at University of Wales Institute, Cardiff,
Derek Smith wrote in 2001 that SSADM is now widely used
in civil service and commercial applications.
For further details, some help is available online, and
the booklet SSADM Version 4 is a good introduction (CCTA,
1991). The CCTA investigated a number of approaches before
accepting a tender from Learmonth & Burchett Management
Systems to continue to develop the method.
The U.S. government is a major user of SSADM.
SSADM is what professional systems analysts do for a living,
and you do not have to know much about it. Structured
Systems Analysis and Design Method SSADM, is currently a
part of the Russian Management Systems: Risk Assessment,
Risk Management, Business Continuity, and Network
Security.
The study of the SSADAM included in the main course
of the computer management in the Moscow State University,
the Bauman Technical University and many other colleges in
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Russia. We would like to point out to all Russian and British
computer scientists that the Roger Learmonth, a developer of
SSADM, and the brilliant Russian poet Mikhail Yurievich
Lermontov belong to the same Scottish Clan Learmonth and
are descendant from a common predecessor.
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Learmonth-Lermontov Family’s reunions.
The idea to reunion families that belong to the Russian Lermontov
surname appeared in 1991. Lermontovs knew from their genealogy
that their ancestor George Leirmont came from Scotland in 1613.
They all were proud of their relative - the Great Russian Poet
Mikhail Lermontov (1814-1841). In 1991 Lermontovs invited
Josephine Learmonth from the Great Britain who already had her
view at the origin of Learmonths and Lermontovs from the
Scottish poet and prophet Thomas Rhymer Learmont. At this first
meeting in the Serednokovo Manor, Moscow region, Russia, the
association “Lermontov Heritage” was proclaimed and registered,
and the Chairman – Mikhal Yurievich Lermontov, a
businessperson and a great enthusiast of the history of the
Lermontov families, was elected. Since those times the association
“Lermontov Heritage” provided a much appreciated service for
understanding the origin of the Learmonth-Lermontov surname
and studying the history of families of Learmonths and
Lermontovs. Our book has a great support by the association.
As a result of the efforts of the Chairman Mikhail
Yurievich Lermontov the first international meeting of the
representatives of both Scottish Learmonth and Russian
Lermontov surnames was held in Russia with the participation of
Learmonths and Lermontovs from all over the world in August
2007. This meeting was devoted to the 950th Anniversary of the
Learmonth - Lermontov surname and had a goal to attract the
worldwide Learmonths and Lermontovs to their common ancestry;
to introduce them to each other; to appeal to share their common
values if life and their interests. This event was in essence the First
International Reunion of the Learmonth-Lermontov families.
After this meeting it would be reasonable to consider a
new association - The Learmonth-Lermontov International Family
Heritage Association (LLIFHA). There are now hundreds
volunteers who are working in the close contacts all over the world
collecting new data and new facts about our families. LLIFHA is a
non-profit membership voluntary family association that functions
exclusively with volunteer in the various administrative and
clerical areas of organization.
The 950th Anniversary of the Learmonth- Lermontov
Surname, Russia 5th – 12th August 2007
This Anniversary and Celebration was hosted by Mikhail
and Elena Lermontov at their home Serednikovo Manor, Moscow.
This delightful Manor House set in extensive grounds was the
perfect setting as it was here that the famous poet Mikhail
Yurievich Lermontov spent four happy summers in 1829-1831 and
wrote one of his most famous poems ‘Desire’– To the west to the
west.... The guests included: Tantiana Molchanova (Scientist and
writer, Russia-USA; the Ostrozhnikoskaya branch of the
Lermontov family); Anya Lyakhovskaya (Tanya’s granddaughter);
Alexandra, (Anya’s sister); Diana Learmonth-Mitchel (USA
retired model and actress); Valeri Chernyaev (Honoured Russian
artist); Gille Learmonth (Australia, designer); Lubov Chirkova
(Honoured Russian artist); Jennie Learmonth (wife of the well
known Australian architect, James Learmonth); Michael
Lermontov (Business man & Chairman of The Association
Lermontov Hereditary. The Kolotilovskaya branch of the
Lermontov Family): Elena Lermontova (Michael Lermontov’s
wife); Olga Sedel’nikova-Verbitskaya (wife of Verbizky, writer,
Sainte Genevieve de Bois France); Brian Wilton (Director of the
Scottish Tartans Authority, Edinburgh, Scotland); Yuri
Vladimirovich Lermontov, Russia (The Kolotilovskaya branch of
the Lermontov family, Michael Lermontov’s father): Michael
Alexandrovich Lermontov )The Kolotilovskaya branch of the
Lermontov family) (Architect, Artist and Writer USA); Elena
Lermontova (daughter of Michael Alexandrovich Lermontov,
USA); Michael Lermontov (grandson of Michael Alexandrovich
Lermontov, USA) Anastasia Lermontova-Artemieva
(Kolotilovskaya branch of the Lermontov Family, Ufa, Russia)
Clive Learmonth (retired Wing Commander RAF, England); Rex
Learmonth (retired businessman, England); Andrey Vladimirvish
Tsuguliev (nephew of Mikhail Lermontov, A Lawyer, Russia).
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a tour of the museum at Serednikovo containing the treasures
connected to the Lermontov family. Photographs, video recordings
as well as television interviews by the Russian media then took
place with Brian Wilton bedecked in full tartan regalia taking
centre stage. In the evening the main celebration was held in a
specially constructed marquee in the garden of the Manor, where
everyone enjoyed dinner interspersed with many speeches and
toasts in vodka. Mikhail was invested with a Lermontov tartan kilt
by Brian Wilton who explained that this tartan was specially
designed for the Lermontov family in recognition of their Scottish
origins.
On the evening of 5 th August all the family and guests had
arrived and everyone sat around the Lermontov family table in the
Manor House dining room where an excellent meal was provided.
Frequent toasts were proposed during and after each course
expertly translated into both English and Russian as required by
Andrey Tsuguliev. Wine and vodka were provided in considerable
quantities and the Russian way of proposing and responding to
toasts was soon learnt and appreciated by all the guests. The
occasion was a delight and by the end of the evening everybody
seemed that they had known each other forever.
The morning of the 6 th August started with a service and
prayers at the Obelisk in the Manor grounds devoted to The Great
Russian poet Mikhail Yurievich Lermontov. This was followed by
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This was followed by a presentation of a painting of the
Learmonths historic home Dairsie Castle, Scotland, painted by
Gregory Learmonth. Several bottles of the finest Scotch whisky
was ceremoniously presented by the Learmonths to the
Lermontovs and tasted by all in recognition of their Scottish
routes.
This was followed by a short concert given by the Russian
friends of the Lermontov family who entertained us with the most
wonderful singing of classical Russian songs. Dancing and
talking with new found family friends then carried on into late
evening. On the 7 th & 8 th August we were all taken
into Moscow by coach where we enjoyed escorted tours around the
many historic sites of the city.
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Palace, the Hermitage and the Mikhail Yurievich Lermontov
Museum, St Petersburg, as well as all the main historic sites of the
city.
The 9 th August saw us all assembled in the music room of
Serednikovo for the presentation of the book Learmonth-
Lermontov 1057-2007. Tanya Molchanova and Rex Learmonth,
giving short presentations in Russian and English. This was
followed by an amazingly brilliant concert by two young
musicians playing the guitar and balalaika playing both Russian
and Scottish music. In the evening we were taken by coach to the
train station in central Moscow where we boarded the night train to
St Petersburg. The 10 th & 11 th August was spent in and around this
wonderful city travelling again by coach we visited The Catherine
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We also travelled by boat on the river which runs through the city
in the most perfect sunny weather.
On the afternoon of the second day we all assembled in the
Central Library (Pushkin House) the Museum of Literature, St
Petersburg where we enjoyed a concert and presentations given by
Mikhail Lermontov, who gave a explanation of the Lermontov
tartan, Tanya Molchanova and Rex Learmonth also presented the
book Learmonth-Lermontov 1057-2007 in Russian and English.
All these presentations were translated into both Russian and
English by Andrey. This was followed by a celebration lunch.
After travelling overnight back to Moscow we reassembled
back at Serednikovo then after thanking our wonderful hosts for
their welcome and hospitality we reluctantly went our separate
ways hoping to all meet again before too long.
Coming back to those days when Learmonths and
Lermontovs for a first time met each other in Russia we obviously
have a feeling that we met a family. We were able to realize and to
share the great pride for our common relative the Great Russian
poet Mikhail Yurievich Lermontov who unfortunately died so
young. We heard his personal story; saw houses where he lived in
Moscow, Petersburg, Serednikovo; we touched his personal thing;
we heard many romances for his poems and as a result we touched
the history of a Russian person of Scottish origin whose ancestor
came from our surname Learmonth. We lived in the renewed Old
Russian house in the Serednikovo so we can figure out how the
Russian noble families lived in the XIX century and we like their
style of life. We can chart with our Lermontov and Learmonth
relatives asking about successes and faults; parents and children
and other casual things. These all made the atmosphere of our
reunion very causal and warm.
That is why it not surprisingly that the new reunion was
held in Australia in 2009.
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The Learmonth-Lermontov Family Surname Reunion,
Australia 2009. This much waited event took place in
Hamilton
The International visitors arrived in Melbourne on the
20 th – 21 st February and assembled in the Royal Automobile
Club of Victoria (RACV) where we stayed for two nights. The
guests included Mikhail and Elena Lermontov, Andrey
Vladimirovish Tsuguliev from Russia, Tatiana Molchanova
from the USA and Rex Learmonth from the UK. We were
welcomed and entertained by Tam and Barry Waters (Tam’s
mother was a very proud Learmonth) together with Brian
Learmonth who were to be our guides, drivers and organisers
throughout our stay.
We spent the first few days site seeing with Tam, Barry,
Brian and Lou (a wife of the celebrated Australian architect
James Learmonth) visiting the areas in and around Melbourne.
We were invited to a Bar B Q lunch with Gillie Learmonth
and later dinner with Lou Learmonth at their homes. Both
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occasions were a delight.
followed by dinner at the Golf Club with many family
members and their friends.
On day three we travelled in two cars on the
ferry to Port Phillip and then to Bellarine Peninsular
staying at the Barwon Heads Golf Club visiting Brian
and Pamela Learmonth and friends at their home
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On fourth day we travelled the famous Great Ocean
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Road an area of scenic beauty and spectacular views staying
overnight in log cabins and dining in the nearby restaurant.
Day five saw us travelling further on the Great Ocean
Road to Peterborough where we had lunch with Robyn Paton
nee Learmonth at her holiday beach house.
We then visited the famous Twelve Apostles,
spectacular limestone coastal pillars, where some of our party
got a closer view by helicopter.
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We then travelled to Port Fairy a beautiful small historic
fishing town where the Learmonth pioneers first crossed to
live on mainland Australia. We had dinner in the local pub
where we met Rodger Learmonth and his family together with
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a number of local people.
Friday night to take part in an informal dinner at the ‘Cally’ a
local hotel
The organised events commenced at 9.30 am on
Saturday with registration at the United Church Hamilton,
where all could see and photograph the Foundation Stones laid
by the pioneering Learmonths, together with the Learmonth
leaded light Memorial Windows. Tam together with her
helpers had the Church Hall festooned with family tree
information and photographs which had been gathered from
many sources.
Day six was a day of rest and relaxation at this
delightful seaside resort.
On day seven we travelled to Crawford River Winery
and vineyard owned by John and Cathy Thomson, who are
related to the Learmonth family.
Then to Hamilton where the main event was to take
place. This much awaited celebration took place in Hamilton,
Victoria on the weekend of 28 th February - 1st March 2009.
Hamilton was chosen as the venue because the districts
from Portland to Coleraine were where the early Learmonth
pioneers William, Peter and Alexander first came. Brian
Learmonth formerly of ‘Barramar’ near Coleraine as
‘Patriarch’ chaired the celebrations assisted by Robin Paton,
nee Learmonth. Tam Waters daughter of Janet Finch nee
Learmonth were the driving forces of the organisation for the
reunion with many other descendants and friends happily and
generously contributing their time and energy. Attendees came
from all the states of Australia, Russia, America, United
Kingdom and New Zealand. Most arriving in Hamilton on the
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Descendants from different Learmonth families were
able to gleefully trace their particular family information of
course some had to be corrected which caused participants to
discuss the histories displayed and connect with each other.
The most pleasing aspect of the occasion was the joviality
which prevailed as the individuals who may have only known
other Learmonths by name were able to meet and happily
exchange information. Some relatives were found who had
never been imagined, over a cup of tea with Aussie icons –
Lamingtons and ANZAC biscuits and constant happy chatter.
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Mayor of Hamilton, Marcus Rentsch who also welcomed
everybody to Hamilton.
John Lovett, a descendant of the district’s Aborigines
assisted the Rev Cook with guitar and songs; John’s message
to us was that the world would be a better place if we all
communicated through song and music. Tam read a poem
which she had composed incorporating a history of the
Learmonths and their achievements. This poem is contained in
the service booklet.
A welcome service conducted by the Rev Peter Cook
was held at the Church which the Learmonths had helped to
build.
Brian Learmonth then opened the proceedings with a
well chosen welcome address, followed by His Worship the
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DVD on the history of George Leirmont from Scotland who
settled in Russia and became the progenitor of the Lermontov
family. Various people from different branches of the family
then gave short presentations. All registrants were provided
with an information pack which included a district map where
Learmonth places of interest were identified which included
early dwellings, cemeteries, memorials etc for descendants to
visit should they choose to do so.
Photographs were then taken in front of Hamilton
College by Jill Broun, daughter of Janet Finch nee Learmonth.
Saturday Lunch was held at Hamilton College. The
Mothers Association made everyone very welcome and
comfortable, producing a delicious selection of finger foods,
sandwiches, quiches, slices and fruit punch. The Learmonth
presentations were then held in the School Hall. The local
Federal Member, the Hon David Hawker, in a short address
credited the Learmonth settlers for their public spirited vision.
The Deputy Principle, Mr Neil McLean gave a very
informative insight into the influence that the Learmonth
families had on the formation of the college and the student
population. Charles Page, an author of ‘Wings of Destiny’
which depicts the heroism of Wing Commander Charles
Cuthbertson Learmonth DFC, gave an interesting talk and
video presentation.
Rex Learmonth from England gave a short talk on the
history of the name Learmonth. The Lermontov’s showed a
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The Saturday night dinner at the Hamilton Club was
certainly a night to remember. A piper led Mikhail Lermontov
together with Rodger Learmonth through the club and on to
the lawn. Mikhail wearing the Lermontov kilt and his Akubra
hat carrying ‘The Haggis’, Rodger wearing the ancient
‘Learmonth Seal’ carried the ‘Learmonth Silver Knife’.
Rodger recited the ancient ode to ‘The Haggis’ stabbing it in
the traditional way. Mikhail produced a Russian doll
symbolically representing the Russian Lermontov’s arising
from Scotland and the joy of meeting the Australian
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Learmonths on Australian soil.
Mikhail Lermontov in which he laments that he did not live in
Scotland the land of his ancestors.
During the morning the overseas contingent were
firstly taken to the local cemetery where a number of
Learmonths are interned.
Ninety nine diners enjoyed a splendid night of food,
and great hilarity. There were of course vodka toasts to all and
sundry after which Mikhail led everyone on to the dance floor
where the family danced and laughed into the night.
During the dinner, Tam was presented with a bronze
wall panel with the ‘Spero Crest and the Learmonth Spirit of
Adventure’ by Norma Learmonth who had acquired it from an
original Family home. Tam has been charged with the huge
responsibility of maintaining this panel and ensuring it passes
to a person of the next generation who will be the keeper of
the Australian Learmonth stories and traditions.
On Sunday morning in the Hamilton Botanical
Gardens, Murray Rogerson, a poet from Glen Thompson, read
a poem by Sir Walter Scott which traces the story of one of the
earliest Scottish Bards - a Learmonth known as Thomas the
Rhymer. This lengthy and difficult poem written in the
language of the day was splendidly presented by Murray. He
also recited ’The Raven’ a poem by the famous Russian poet
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Then on a farm tour at ‘Ballaarook’ Coleraine by
Russell Finch - son of Janet Finch, nee Learmonth.
A sumptuous Garden Party Luncheon was held at
‘Heathleigh’ hosted by the Macdonald Family. Anita
Macdonald was the famed author of ‘Mariposa’ a chronicle of
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the Learmonths in Mexico. Tatiana Molchanova produced a
DVD on the poet Mikhail Lermontov and the music inspired
by him. Family members watched this beautiful DVD at their
leisure.
On Monday a cavalcade of six vehicles took the
overseas and other visitors to view ‘Ericidoune’ the fabled
Scottish Baronial Manor built by the Learmonths near
Learmonth in the Ballarat region. Christine Dever and her son
Michael generously conducted everyone on a tour of the
Mansion and the grounds. The property has a fabulous and
interesting history; Ericidoune is being painstakingly and
beautifully restored by the Devers .
To mark the occasion of the ‘Learmonth Reunion’ and
the traced connection to the Russian Lermontov’s, three Silver
Birch trees were planted by Elena and Mikhail Lermontov,
Tam Waters and Brian Learmonth, Tatiana Molchanova and
Rex Learmonth in the grounds of Ericildoune Manor.
At the end of year 2009, Brian Learmonth and Tam Waters
with the help of John and Christine Dever at Ercildoune have
made three plaques to commemorate the planting of the three
Birch trees there on 2nd.March 2009.
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Contents
We then returned to the RACV Club in Melbourne
where we stayed overnight saying a sad fair well the following
morning to Tam, Barry and Brian who had been excellent
hosts and companions throughout our trip. They really enjoyed
the occasion but we all felt that they now deserved another
holiday to recover.
In conclusion we all felt that the welcome and the
warmth of the Australian Learmonths, their families and their
friends in making us feel part of their larger family was
something that none who were there will ever forget.
• Introduction …………………………… …… 1-5
• Historical background ……………………..… 5-10
• Chronicle of the Learmonth surname from early
times………………………………………..... 10-15
• Learmouth Township……………………….....16-19
• The roots of surname Learmonth and the village of
Learmouth……………………………………...20-22
• How did the first French root ‘Leure’ appear in the
British
Isles?...................................................................23-24
• French Origins…….…………………………...24-28
• Luyrieux in England…………….…………… 28-29
• Knighthood………………………………….....29-30
• References…………………………………… 31-35
• Early Learmonths……………………………. 35-36
• Thomas Rhymer of Ereldoune or Thomas Learmonth
(1220-1297)……………………………………37-42
• The Learmonths of Fife………………………. 45-93
• Learmonths served abroad in XVI century…..94-104
• George Leirmont came over to Russia………106-114
• The Early Lermontov Family. Coat of Arms .116-128
• Michael Yurievich Lermontov. A Great Russian
Poet………………………… ……………….129-140
• Ostrozhnikovo’s Lermontov’s………………141-169
• Kolotilovo’s Lermontovs……………………169-194
• Learmonths prominent………………………195-249
• Learmonth-Lermontov Family’s reunions………250
• The 950th Anniversary of the Learmonth- Lermontov
Surname, Russia 5th – 12th August 2007…..251-259
• The Learmonth-Lermontov Family Surname Reunion
Australia 2009. This much waited event took place in
Hamilton……………………………………..260-276
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Acknowledgement.
Our work would not have been completed without constant
support from the Russian association “Lermontov’s
Hereditary” and its Chairman and our kin Mikhail Yurievich
Lermontov who is now a Vice – Chairman of the Federal
Scientific-Methodical Council, Ministry of Culture and Mass-
Communications, Russian Federation. Mikhail and his wife
Elena gave us both moral and financial support, which enabled
us to write and to publish this book.
The authors gratefully acknowledge the contributions made
by: The Scottish National Library, Edinburgh, and particularly
researcher Diana Baptie.
The Benedictine Monks of the Pluscarden Abbey, near Elgin,
Moray, Scotland, particularly for preserving the ancient
Learmonth Coat of Arms and their interest and understanding
of Russian literature.
The University of St. Andrews, Fife, Scotland, and in
particularly Prof. Steve Murdoch and A. Grosjean who created
the databases "Scotland, Scandinavia and Northern Europe
Database, 1580-1707» that allows us to identify many
Learmonths served abroad during the period 1580-1630.
The Wishart Genealogy Society, St. Andrews, Fife, Scotland.
The Chairman Dr. David Wishart kindly sent us not wellknown
portrait of the Scottish Martyr George Wishart-
Learmonth.
The representative of the Magistrate of St. Andrews Julie
Poole who kindly sent us photographs of the relict Learmonth
monuments exhibited in the Magistrate Hall, St. Andrews,
Fife, Scotland.
The Scottish Music Centre, Glasgow, and Glasgow University
Library for their huge collection of the archive documents
about Scottish composer George Learmonth Drysdale.
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The Court of the Lord Lyon - the official heraldry office for
Scotland and in particularly Mr Bruce Gorie who is secretary
to the Lyon Clerk. Mr Gorie kindly sent us the list of the
registered Learmonth Coat of Arms since 1672.
Mr Chris Ruffle who now resides in Taiwan. He purchased
Dairsie Castle from Andrew Logan, sight unseen, as part of
the sale of Dairsie Farm. It was an unpromising start, for
Dairsie was referred to as "an unsuitable candidate for
restoration" by Historic Scotland. Undaunted Ruffle achieved
planning permission to rebuild the castle within a year of the
purchase. Chris then wrote the story of Dairsie Castle and
kindly sent us a copy of his achievements.
Professor of Music and Chair of the Department of Music at
Southwestern University Kenny Sheppard who had chosen the
story of the Scottish composer George Learmonth Drysdale as
a theme of his dissertation.
The Director of the Scottish Tartans Authority Brian Wilton,
Edinburgh, Scotland, for the professional skills and
enthusiasm that were expressed during the creation and
presentation in Russia of the Russia Lermontov Tartan in
August 2007.
David Redeker from the “Instituut voor Nederlandse
Geschiedenis en NOW” who is an expert in the medieval
history of Europe. David Scott – expert in the history of
Orkney, Scotland. Jean Paul De Cloet, Chairman “V.Z.W.
Geschiedkundige Heruitgeverij” and expert in the heraldry of
the medieval France. Jim McGrath, Faculty Officer, Faculty of
Science the University of Strathclyde, Glasgow. John
McCallum, Reformation Studies Institute, St John's House, St
Andrews, Fife. Pascal Laparre who is an expert in early coat
of arms from their onset to the end of the crusades. Judith
Currey – an expert in the interpretation of the Medieval
Norman-French-Latin texts. Kirsty F. Wilkinson from the “My
Ain Folk”, Edinburgh, Scotland, who helped a lot with the
interpretation of the Learmonth’s panegyric of 1620.
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We express the special gratitude to all Learmonth families
who sent us their stories.
The technical support from Olga Bakushkina was also greatly
appreciated. The comments of the reviewers of the book:
Dmitri Fedosov and Adrei Tsuguliev were most valuable.
To collect the historical facts and illustrations we travelled few
times over Scotland and England. All members of our families
and particularly Yuri Postnikov and Anya Lyakhovskaya
(Tatiana’s husband and granddaughter) were extremely
helpful and enthusiastic. We all became admirers of British
history.
We express our cordial gratitude to Her Majesty the Queen of
the United Kingdom for her high assessment of our research
of the families of the Learmonths and Lermontovs and their
connections throughout the years.
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The Russian version of our book, published in Moscow in
2008, recognised as the best book of year 2008. Mikhail
Yurievich Lermontov and our book were awarded with the
National Prize in the field of “Genealogical Studies.
Memory”.
About the authors
Tatiana Molchanova
Graduated from the Lomonosov Institute of Fine Chemical
Technologies; PhD in the Biological Sciences, Moscow,
Russia; holder of the position of the Senior Scientist in the
Haematological Scientific Centre (1974-1991) working in the
collaboration with the Engelhard Institute Molecular Biology
Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow. Participated in
pioneering molecular diagnosis of the hemoglobinopathies in
Russia; studied the conformational mobility of protein
molecules. Since 1991 has been working in the USA:
Biochemistry Department & Sickle Cell Centre headed by
Emeritus Professor T. Huisman; Pharmaceutical Companies;
National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland. Authors of
more than hundred professional publications. The last years
has been researching Genealogy & Family history. Author of
books and articles. Tatiana Molchanova is a cousin of
George (Yuri) Lermontov (1910-2005).
Rex Learmonth
Graduated from College. Served in the British Army. Became
a trainee in the textile industry. In 1970 became the owner of
the textile manufacturing business. Retired in 2000 and
became an amateur historian and writer. Rex Learmonth is a
direct descendant from the Scottish Borders Learmonths.
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