Robert Mercer

Robert was born c. 1550-5.

Presented as minister of Banchory-Devenick, Aberdeenshire on 25/Feb/1578 as successor of his father Rev. Robert Mercer.

In 1580 he was also one of four regents of King’s College, Aberdeen, which he held in conjunction. Among his pupils was John Johnston (c.1570-1612), the Latin poet and scholar, who left his cup to him: „Item - I leave to Mr Robert Merser, Persoun of Banquhorie, my auld kind maister, in talken of my thankful dewtie, my quhyit cupe with the silver fit."

On 23/Jul/1602 he was found negligent in teaching and exercise of discipline and admonished. It was reported on 12/Aug/1603 that he "teaches better and oftener since he has his residence in Aberdeen", but he was ordered to reside in this parish, which order was repeated on 19/Jul/1605. On 05/Apr/1610 the Presbytery found him somewhat cold in his doctrine and delivery thereof, and that he had dilapidated the benefice.

He was a member of the Assembly in 1610, and still minister on 24/Mar/1618.

He married Isobell Collison c.1585.

He died before 14/Nov/1622 when his successor was presented.

Robert and Catherine had at least the following children:

Isobell Collison

Born c. 1565.

She may be the Isabella Collison whom we know as one of the sisters of John Collison of Auchlunies (c.1550-1621), provost of Aberdeen. Their parents were Gilbert Collison, baillie, and Janet Seton. Gilbert’s grandfather was John Collison, provost of Aberdeen (d. before 27/Feb/1535) who married Elizabeth, only daughter of Alexander Leslie, 1st baron of Wardis.

Isobell died after 1603.