Robert Carrick
Robert Carrick of Braco | |
|---|---|
| Born | 1737 Houston, Renfrewshire, Scotland |
| Died | 1821-06-20 |
| Occupation | Banker |
| Known for | Prominent Scottish banker; one of the wealthiest individuals in Scotland; namesake of Carrick Street in Glasgow |
Robert Carrick of Braco (1737–1821), often referred to as Robin Carrick, was a prominent Scottish banker during the 18th century and ranked among the wealthiest individuals in Scotland. Renowned for his extreme frugality, he was characterized by a short, stocky build and fine grey hair styled in a pigtail. Carrick Street, located in central Glasgow, was named in his honor in 1800.
Life
Originating from Houston, Renfrewshire, Robert was the eldest child of Reverend Robert Carrick and Margaret Paisley Simson, herself the daughter of Reverend Professor John Simson of Glasgow College. His sibling John pursued a career as a surgeon in Glasgow.
Carrick commenced his banking career in 1752 as an apprentice clerk at the Old Ship Bank, which was then under the ownership of Dunlop, Houston & Co. Among the partners was Andrew Buchanan of Drumpellier, a close associate of Carrick's father who likely served as a mentor. The senior Robert Carrick had been a tutor to the Buchanan family, and young Robert spent part of his youth residing with them.
By 1775, Carrick had advanced to the position of manager and partner at the Old Ship Bank, now controlled by Moores Carrick & Company. Approximately around 1785, he purchased the Braco estates situated northeast of Glasgow.
His public service included roles as Bailie beginning in 1796 and later as Dean of Guild starting in 1802.
Carrick passed away on 20 June 1821 within his attic quarters above the Ship Bank—then operated by Carrick Brown & Co—where he cohabited with his niece Miss Paisley, who was similarly noted for her thriftiness.
The bank's premises were located at Saltmarket and Bridgegate. Although the original building has been demolished, its legacy continues through the "Old Ship Bank" pub established on the same site.
Upon his death, Carrick bequeathed a fortune exceeding £1 million, primarily inherited by David Buchanan (1760–1827), nephew of Andrew Buchanan. To commemorate this inheritance, David appended "Carrick" to his surname and was serving as a joint partner in the Ship Bank at that time.
Despite amassing great wealth, Carrick was interred in an unmarked grave within Ramshorn Cemetery in central Glasgow.