David Paulin
Sir David Paulin | |
|---|---|
| Born | 1847-10-27 Irvine, Scotland |
| Died | 1930-12-20 |
| Occupation(s) | Actuary, banker |
| Known for | First person in the insurance sector to be knighted; co-founder of Scottish Life Assurance Company |
| Notable work | Co-founder and manager of Scottish Life Assurance Company (1881–1918) |
Sir David Paulin FFA FRSE (1847–1930) was a distinguished Scottish actuary and banker, recognized as the first person within the insurance sector to receive a knighthood. Alongside James Sorley, he established the Scottish Life Assurance Company in 1881 and oversaw its operations until 1918, during which time Sir Arthur Mitchell served as Chairman.
Life
He was born on 27 October 1847 in Irvine, the son of George Paulin, who was Rector of Irvine Academy, and Annie Macdougall. His early education took place at Irvine Academy. Paulin emerged as a prominent leader in Scotland's commercial and insurance arenas, holding presidencies at both the Actuarial Society and the Insurance Society of Edinburgh. Additionally, he chaired the Associated Scottish Life Offices and led the Scottish Society of Economists. His business affiliations extended to roles such as Trustee of the Scottish Widows Fund, Director at the Arizona Copper Company, Vice-President of the Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce, and Chairman of the Edinburgh Canadian Mortgage Company.
A devout Christian associated with the United Free Church of Scotland, he acted as Treasurer for the National Council of the YMCA and voluntarily led the Scottish Advisory Committee dedicated to the Welfare of the Blind.
During the late 1800s, Paulin lived at 44 Moray Place, an esteemed Georgian townhouse located in Edinburgh’s New Town, and possessed a substantial estate at Macrihanish. In 1892, he gained election as a Fellow of the Royal Society of Edinburgh, with endorsements from distinguished individuals including Sir Arthur Mitchell and Thomas Bond Sprague. His knighthood was conferred in 1909 by Edward VII in recognition of his contributions to insurance. In his later years, he resided at 6 Forres Street within Edinburgh’s Moray Estate.
In 1923, he received honorary lifelong membership from the Irvine Burns Club. Sir David Paulin passed away on 20 December 1930.
Family
He married Jessie Elizabeth McNeill in 1874; she subsequently became Lady Jessie Elizabeth Paulin. The couple had two sons named Neil and Freddy. Their daughter, Annie Florence, succumbed to cancer in 1916 at the age of 26.
David Paulin was also the uncle of sculptor George Henry Paulin.