Mary Erskine carved out her place in history as a remarkably talented Scottish businesswoman. But more than that, she was renowned as a significant philanthropist. It was her funding that established institutions in Edinburgh that held immense importance for society, allowing Mary to fully unlock her charitable potential.
Edinburgh1.one will tell you more about her fascinating story.
Of course, Mary’s philanthropy was only possible because she amassed a considerable fortune. And, rather surprisingly, this came about due to a tragic twist of fate.
Intrigued? Then dive into this article about an Edinburgh businesswoman who truly made a difference.
A “Mysterious” Biography
Mary’s life began way back in 1629. Unfortunately, almost nothing is known about the early years of this remarkable woman.
Therefore, we can consider Erskine’s “publicly known biography” to have started in 1661. This was when she officially married Robert Kennedy. They had five children together.
An “Unwelcome Inheritance”
However, in 1671, Robert passed away, leaving Mary with a mountain of debt. For the first few years after his death, she was entirely focused on settling these liabilities. Despite the sums being quite substantial, Mary brilliantly managed to clear all the debts. This was a testament to her exceptional intellect and shrewd financial management.
Second Marriage
On 23rd September 1675, Mary married for a second time. Her husband was James Hair, a well-known chemist and apothecary owner.
Interestingly, her second husband was significantly younger than Mary. Yet, this fact didn’t spare him from an early demise; he died in 1683.
According to their marriage contract, Erskine became the direct heir to her husband’s estate. And despite the inherited sum not seeming particularly large by the standards of the time, Mary managed to use this capital to open a private bank. It’s no surprise that this investment later helped her accumulate a rather significant fortune.
Founding a Vital Institution
Mary’s financial standing was excellent, and she had built a valuable reputation in society. She was best known as Mrs. Hair.
Leveraging her high standing, in 1694, Mary decided to donate a substantial sum to establish the Merchant Maiden Hospital, a school for girls in Edinburgh. In 1706, Mary invested in purchasing a house and plot of land located beyond the Bristo city wall. The following year, 1707, Erskine donated another considerable sum to the Merchant Maiden Hospital.
It’s worth noting that this institution was subsequently renamed and relocated multiple times. However, 1944 marked the year when the school’s name was officially dedicated to its founder. Thus, “The Mary Erskine School” came into being.
Another Act of Kindness
Speaking of the renowned businesswoman’s philanthropic activities, it’s worth noting that she didn’t stop at just one school. In 1704, Mary founded The Trades Maiden Hospital. This institution was created to provide a place for the daughters and granddaughters of tradesmen and craftsmen to live and study.
Throughout her life, Mary Erskine achieved a great deal. By wisely utilising her inherited funds and becoming a successful businesswoman, she earned immense respect in society. And after gaining such a high reputation, she didn’t become complacent; instead, she opened her heart to good deeds.
By dedicating funds to charity, Mary founded important and much-needed institutions for the city. Her role in women’s education in Edinburgh simply cannot be overstated.
The journey of this businesswoman and philanthropist concluded on 2nd June 1707. Yet, many years later, she continues to be remembered as a woman with an enormous heart, and, of course, as someone truly gifted in entrepreneurship.