Robert Pitcairn (antiquary)

Robert Pitcairn FSA Scot FRSE (14 August 1793 – 11 July 1855) was a Scottish antiquary and scholar who contributed to works published by Walter Scott and the Bannatyne Club.

[1] He was the author of Criminal Trials and other Proceedings before the High Court of Justiciary in Scotland (1829-1833).

[2] He was head of the Edinburgh Printing and Publishing Company and secretary of the Calvin Translating Society[3] Pitcairn was a fellow of the Society of Antiquaries of Scotland,[4] and a Writer to His Majesty’s Signet,[5] and a member of the Maitland Club.

He was born in Edinburgh in 1793, second son of Jean Kincaid and Robert Pitcairn (1749-1828), Principal Keeper at Register House.

He was a friend and collaborator of Sir Walter Scott, often obtaining historical information for his use.

Robert Pitcairn lived in an attractive flat at 50 North Castle Street, Edinburgh
Robert Pitcairn's grave, New Calton Cemetery