Michael T Tracy

James Lyell (1786-1865) Michael T Tracy

Like his father and grandfather before him, James Lyell was a linen manufacturer in Newburgh, Fife situated on the Firth of Tay. Newburgh's industries consisted of the making of linen and floor cloth, quarrying and salmon fisheries all of which have now long gone. The Lyell family history has had a long association with Newburgh dating back to the early 1700s when Alexander Lyell (1684- ) and Isobel Buist (1691- ) were married there in 1712 and had eight children who were all born and raised there. At least four generations of the family have resided in Newburgh. James most likely learned the trade from his father, George (1752- ), and inherited the business from him upon his death. Lyell met and married Margaret Haggart in 1828 and they had six children who were all born in Newburgh. The family resided on High Street where his shop was located as well. Lyell was elected as a Magistrate of Newburgh Burgh in November of 1842 and eventually rose to be the Chief Magistrate of Newburgh. This then is the narrative of James Lyell, the linen manufacturer of Newburgh.