John Anderson
1726-1796

Scientist

Born Roseneath on the Gareloch. Studied at Glasgow. He succeeded in getting King William to grant the City freedom, as a Royal Burgh, to elect its own magistrates and councillors. Due to his success Anderson was elected Provost. Next he negotiated a deal with Tobias Smollett, Provost of Dumbarton. Dumbarton was still a trading rival to Glasgow but Anderson negotiated a pact under which tolls, harbour dues and other charges were abolished. Whereas Dumbarton gained a few small concessions, Glasgow gained something which would prove highly significant - direct, unhindered access to the sea. On his death Anderson left all he had to found Anderson's College.