The Descendants of Seatons in Balrobie

Balrobie and the surrounding farms

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Early records of Seatons living close to Balrobie

The earliest record concerning the appearance of the surname Seaton is 16th September 1667 when peace with France was declared, and the Earl of Atholl's Troop was disbanded. Alexander Seaton was listed in the Cornet's Squadron. He may have been related to the Donald Seaton, one of twenty tenants, who was listed as Alexander Robertson of Lude's contribution to the Atholl Hunting Roll, dated September 1667.

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John Seatone and Margaret NcLauchlane

The Blair Atholl OPR only dates back to 1718 when the Minister, Mr Duncan Stewart, was replaced for refusing to pray for the Hanovarian King on the Sabbath, and probably took the records with him. However the Dull OPR dates back much further, and records the marriage of John Seaton in Blair Atholl parish and Margaret McLauchlane in the parish of Dull.

Dull OPR, 11th December 1705
December the 9th, John Seatone in Blair of Athol parish and Margaret NcLauchlane in this parish booked (for marriage). Married December 11th.
(Nc or Nic - 'daughter of', in a same manner to Mc or Mac - 'son of').

It is almost certain that this is the same couple who had a son, Donald, born at Fonvuick, 2nd November 1722 (Blair Atholl OPR). Fonvuick is on the boundary between the parishes of Blair Atholl and Dull, and in addition both family surnames are associated with this particular area. If this is the same couple, it must be assumed that Donald was their last child as Margaret would have been at least 37 when Donald was born, and there could have been several other children born in the period between 1706 and 1718. One possible son is Alexander Seaton who married Christian Robertson, and then farmed at Loinmarstaig.

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Alexander Seaton and George Seaton in Ardtulichan

In 1706 payment of stipends for the Minister shows that the 3 merk land of Ardtulichan was equally split between Alexander Seaton and George Seaton, who may have been brothers. Alexander Seaton in Ardtulichan is mentioned as being the master of James McLachlan in the Testament Dative and Inventory of John McIntyre in Blair, (Dunkeld Commissariot, 1717). In addition the Moulin OPR refers to the marriage of Alexander Seaton in Blair Atholl parish, and this may be Alexander Seaton in Ardtulichan.

Moulin OPR, 6th October 1710
October 6th, Alexander Seaton in the parish of Blair and Elspet Rotson in this parish, being lawfully contracted, gave up their names in order to proclamation, who were accordingly proclaimed the three following Sabbaths, and upon the 27th October had a testificate in order to marriage.

The testificate indicated that the wedding took place elsewhere, probably in Blair Atholl parish. Nothing more is known about this couple who may have left the area as only George Seaton was paying the Minister's stipend for Ardtulichan after 1714.

In 1715 the lands of 'Belrobbie' became part of the Atholl Estate when they were sold to the Duke by John Robertson, eldest son of the deceased Alexander Robertson of Belrobbie. Before that, in 1706, there were three tenants: William Scott who held a 1 merk land; Adam Robertson who held a 10 shilling land; and John Seaton who also had a 10 shilling land. John Seaton was a tenant farmer until 1710, after which time there were no more Seatons recorded as tenant farmers, but they may have been cooper, shoemakers, masons or farm servants.

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By the late 1730s there were five Seaton men living at Balrobie who must have belonged to two or three related families:

Donald Seaton, who was married to Janet Menzies;
Duncan Seaton, who was married to Elspeth Stewart;
Neill Seaton, who was married to Janet Young;
Robert Seaton, who was married to Elspeth McLauchlane; and
John Seaton, who was married to Margaret Young.

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Donald Seaton and Beatrice Seaton, cousins in Wester Balrobie

This could not have been a single family as Donald Seaton and Beatrice Seaton, both in Wester Balrobie, married 3rd January 1754. As young men tended to marry in their thirties while girls married in their twenties, Donald probably was born around 1725 and Beatrice around 1735. The couple seem to have been childless so there are no clues to their respective parents, however Donald may have been the son of John Seaton and Margaret McLauchlane in Fonvuick.

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Neill Campbell and Christian Seaton

In addition to these five men, there was also Christian Seaton. She was living at Wester Balrobie when she married Neill Campbell from Tirinie, 29th May 1750. There is no record of any children being baptised.

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Donald Seaton and Janet Menzies in Balrobie and Ardtulichan

Donald Seaton, who was married to Janet Menzies, was born about 1690 at Balrobie. This is based upon circumstantial evidence, but it is known that he took part in the 1715 Jacobite Rising, and fought under the command of William Mackintosh, Laird of Borlum, at the Battle of Preston. After a bloody defence of the town in which hundreds of Hanovarian troops were killed, the small Jacobite force had to surrender. Forty five of the prisoners were executed but the remainder were sent to the New Plantations of America as indentured servants. Donald returned within a few years to farm at Ardtulichan with Duncan Seaton, who probably was his younger brother. The descendants of Donald Seaton and Janet Menzies farmed Stronchavie.

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Duncan Seaton and Elspeth Stewart in Balrobie and Ardtulichan

The Blair Atholl Kirk Session minutes show that Duncan Seaton and Elspeth Stewart were living at Balrobie in 1722 but moved to Ardtulichan by 1728, where their daughter Isobel was born.

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Neill Seaton and Janet Young in Balrobie

The surname of Young is not very common in Blair Atholl parish, so it is quite likely that Janet Young was the sister of Margaret Young who married John Seaton in Balrobie. It is also possible that they were related to John Young in Croftvickewan, whose father Donald had been a Kirk Elder when Mr Duncan Stewart had been the Minister.

(Generation 2) The Children of Neill Seaton and Janet Young in Balrobie

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Robert Seaton and Elspeth McLauchlane in Balrobie

Robert Seaton prospered at Balrobie and could afford having a servant. The Blair Atholl OPR records that Robert Stewart, servant to John Seaton in Wester Balrobie and Beatrix Robertson, servant to Robert Seaton in Wester Balrobie, married 20th November 1744.

Very few marriages were recorded in the Blair Atholl OPR before 1744 so it is not surprising that a marriage has not been found for Robert Seaton and Elspeth McLauchlane. Their first child was born in 1738, so it is surprising that the next child was not born until 1752, a gap of nearly 14 years. As the later children were born at roughly four yearly intervals, one might have expected there to be another two or three childen born between 1738 and 1752.

There is one very strong candidate - Margaret Seaton. On 29 Jan 1771 Donald Campbell in Ceannaghlinne, Moulin parish, and Margaret Seaton in Wester Balrobie, were married. As girls tended to marry in their early twenties, one would expect Margaret to have been born in 1751 or a few years earlier. Now in the 1740s there were two Seaton families at Wester Balrobie, probably two brothers; John Seaton who was married to Margaret Young and and Robert Seaton who was married to Elspeth McLauchlane. John and Margaret farmed Wester Balrobie until 1750, after which time they moved to Fonvuick where their son George was born. So if Margaret was their daughter she would have given her parental home as Fonvuick and not Wester Balrobie. Robert and Elspeth's eldest son John continued farming Wester Balrobie after their deaths, right up until his death in 1786. This strongly suggests that Margaret Seaton was his sister and her name has been added to the family accordingly.

On 15 Jun 1773 Donald Robertson in Easter Balrobie and Elspeth Seaton in Wester Balrobie were married. So, in a similar manner to that of Margaret Seaton, it can be argued that Elspeth Seaton was, most likely, another daughter whose baptism was not recorded and likewise her name has been added to the family.

The last name that probably should be added to the family is that of Donald Seaton. He was living at Wester Balrobie when he married Margaret Scott in Balinloin of Shierglas on 12 Jan 1768. As it was usual for men to marry in their late twenties or thirties, he probably was born in the early 1740s as a younger brother to John who 'inherited' the lease on Wester Balrobie.

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(Generation 2) The Children of Robert Seaton and Elspeth McLauchlane in Balrobie

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John Seaton and Isobel Stewart in Wester Balrobie

It is recorded in the Blair Atholl OPR that John Seton in Wester Balrobbie and Isobel Stewart in the parish of Dull were married 17th February 1774.

This provides very little information about the parentage of Isobel Stewart. Probably she was in her twenties when she married and, as her second son was baptised as James, her father also had that name. Dull parish also covers a large, disjointed, area but she probably came from the Glen Fincastle area, just to the south of Balrobie.

John Seaton, as eldest son, appears to have taken over the lease on Balrobie farm from his father, as this is where all of his children were born.

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(Generation 3) The Children of John Seaton and Isobel Stewart in Wester Balrobie

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John Robertson and Elspeth Seton in Fonvuick

The Blair Atholl OPR records that John Robertson in Fonvuick and Elspeth Seton in Balnald of Fincastle, Dull parish, married 23 Jul 1796. As Elspeth died before 1855 there is no death certificate to confirm her parentage, but all the fact support the possibility that they were John Seaton and Isobel Stewart in Wester Balrobie.

Firstly, she is of the right age and the only other Elspeth or Elizabeth Seton to be born at around the same time belonged a family in Moulin who probably left the district. Secondly, the naming of her children would seem to follow the traditional naming pattern. Thirdly, her mother probably came from Glen Fincastle and her brother Robert was farming Balnauld of Fincastle by 1818 and probably earlier.

There is a strong possibility that Robert Seton and his sister Elspeth went to their mother's relatives in Fincastle as servants, with her marrying from there and her brother taking over part of the Balnauld farm before getting married himself.

John Robertson and Elspeth Seton farmed part of Fonvuick for all of their married lives, and in the 1851 census John Robertson is described as a blind farmer, aged 82 years and a widower, living at Balrobie with his grown-up children, James, Margaret and Elizabeth.

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The Children of John Robertson and Elspeth Seton in Fonvuick

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James McIntosh and Isobel Seton in Balinloan

Isobel went to live at Fonvuick with John Robertson and her older sister Elspeth, and it was from there that she married James McIntosh.

Blair Atholl OPR, 22nd June 1805
James McIntosh in Baluaine and Isobel Setton in Fonmhuic (Fonvuick), married.

Initially the couple lived in Calvine where their son Robert was born, but by 1809 James McIntosh had secured the tack (lease) for the farm at Balinloan of Clune, and the rest of the children were born there. The family were still there at the time of the 1841 census.

Isobel died at some time between 1841 and 1851, as James McIntosh is described as a widower in the 1851 census return.

Ann Reid actually was James's grand-daughter, not his niece. She was the daughter of John Reid and Isabella McIntosh, born 2nd April 1844.

James McIntosh, late farmer and widower of Isabella Seaton died at Middlebridge, 20th October 1764. His parents were given as Robert McIntosh, farmer, and Jane Robertson, both deceased. (Jean or Jane Robertson was the daughter of Duncan Robertson of Dalnamine) The informant was his son-in-law, John Reid.

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The Children of James McIntosh and Isobel Seton in Balinloin of Clune

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Margaret Seaton

The Minister of Moulin's 1820 census shows that Margaret Seaton was employed as a servant by her brother James Seaton and his wife, Helen Reid, at Faskally House, where James was a gardener.

In the 1841 census she may be the 50 year old agricultural labourer living at Inch of Aldgirnaig, next to Peter Seaton and his wife. Her brother James Seaton and his second wife, Grace Robertson, were living just down the road at Aldgirnaig where James Seaton was both farmer and spirit dealer (publican). She seems to have still been living at Aldgirnaig in 1851.

Margaret Seaton, unmarried pauper, died at Aldgirnaig in the parish of Moulin, 1st April 1863 aged 84 years. Parents given as John Seaton, farmer and Isabella Stewart. The informant was Isabella McLauchlan, occupier.

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Robert Seaton and Jean McLauchlane in Balinauld, Glen Fincastle

Dull OPR, 9th March 1817
Robert Seaton and Jean MacLauchlane, both in this parish, gave up their names to be proclaimed in order to marriage.

Jean McLauchlane was the daughter of John McLauchlane and Janet Seton who married 16 July 1791 (Dull OPR). She was born 26 Feb 1798 (Dull OPR), and was about 28 years old when she married.

Glen Fincastle

Robert Seaton and his family were living at Balinauld of Fincastle at the time of the 1841 Census. (Dull parish Census 9/4)

Their 18 year old daughter Isabella was living nearby at Little Miltown of Fincastle, where she was a servant to Elizabeth Stewart, Peter Stewart and Isabella Robertson.

The family were still at Balnauld in 1851. (Dull parish Census 10/10)

Their daughter Isabella, unmarried and aged 25 years, was working as a house servant for James Robertson the farmer at Lick, on the south side of Loch Tummel. The 1851 census return shows that she had been born in Dull parish.

There is another Seaton living closeby but her parentage is unknown. Margaret Seaton aged 4 years and born in Perth is shown as the grand-daughter of James Robertson and his wife Christian, farmer in Fiermore, Glen Fincastle. It is possible that she was an illegitimate child to James's daughter Jean.

The last mention of Robert Seaton is in the Tenandry Census for 1861 - Tenandry comprised parts of the parishes of Blair Atholl, Moulin and Dull.

Their son James was a farmer at Ardgualich by this time, and his sister Janet was keeping house for him.

Helen McLauchlan (Jean's sister) married to James Robertson died at Balnald of Fincastle, 1st December 1869 aged 67 years. Her parents were given as John McLauchlan, farmer, and Janet Seaton. Informant was her brother Robert McLauchlan in Balnald of Fincastle.

Also living at Balinauld (27) was his nephew John Seaton, the youngest son of his brother James. John Seaton was married to Betsy McIntosh and had three children at the time: Susan aged 7; Archibald aged 4 and Helen aged 1. In addition, Archibald Seaton, the eldest son of his brother James, was living with his wife Christian MacLauchlane at nearby Milton of Fincastle.

Robert Seaton, farmer, married to Jean McLauchlane, died at Balinauld 1st August 1862 aged 82 years. Parents given as John Seaton, farmer, and Isabella Stewart. The informant was his son, John Seaton.

Jean and her family were still at Balnauld in 1871, and her eldest son John had become a gamekeeper.

Jean, John and Isabella were still living at Balnauld in 1881.

Jane Seaton died in 1888, aged 89 years. Her daughter Isabella died in 1896 aged 74 years and her son John died in 28 Aug 1901 aged 83 years. He died without leaving a will but his brother Alexander had an inventory of his estate recorded in the Perth Sheriff Court book, as follows:

Firstly, there was £5 in cash held in his house.

Secondly, his household furniture and other effects were valued at £19 6s 7d.

Thirdly, the principal sum of £43 2s, with £1 4s 10d interest, was deposited with the Union Bank of Scotland in Pitlochry.

Fourthly, the principal sum of £78 6s 6d, with £2 5s 1d interest, was deposited with the Bank of Scotland in Pitlochry.

Fifthly, the sum of £6 10s was due to the deceased as Ground Officer's wages.

This amounted to £155 15s, which was claimed by his brother Alexander Seaton, gardener, living at 7 Oakfield, Pitlochry.

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(Generation 4) The Children of Robert Seaton and Jean McLauchlane in Balinauld, Glen Fincastle

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David Lindsay and Helen Seaton in Edinburgh and Pitlochry

In the 1841 census for Tenandry, the 17 year old Helen and her younger brother James were working as agricultural labourers for James Robertson, the farmer at Shellach. ScotlandsPeople have her indexed as Ellen Leton.

On 3rd June 1881 at West Castle Road, Edinburgh, David Lindsay mason and widower aged 45 years living at 5 Nicolson Street, Edinburgh, married Ellen Seaton domestic servant and spinster aged 48 years living at 19 Ainslie Place, Edinburgh. His parents were given as Robert Lindsay, deceased weaver, and Ann Clark. Her parents were given as Robert Seaton, deceased shoemaker, and Jenny McLachlane. The marriage was witnessed by Alexander Seaton and Agnes Donaldson.

Helen was employed as a domestic servant by Patrick Blair, Writer to the Signet, and his wife The Honourable Eleanor Jane Ross Moncreiff.

Helen Seaton, widow of David Lindsay journeyman mason, died at Oakbank Pitlochry on 2nd December 1906 aged 84 years. Parents given as Robert Seaton, shoemaker, and Jane McLauchlane, both deceased. The informant was her brother Alexander Seaton in Oakbank, Pitlochry.

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James Seaton and Ann Robertson in Moulin

In the 1841 census for Tenandry, the 15 year old James and her older sister Helen (Ellen) were working as agricultural labourers for James Robertson, the farmer at Shellach. ScotlandsPeople have him indexed as James Leton.

In the 1861 census James Seaton and his sister Janet were living in Ardgualich at the east end of Loch Tummel, where the ferry used to cross to Duntanlich on the south side.

On 19th July 1867 at Dunkeld, James Seaton aged 40 years, gamekeeper residing at Milton of Fincastle, married Ann Robertson aged 30 years, also residing at Milton of Fincastle. His parents were given as Robert Seaton, shoemaker, and Jane McLauchlan. Her parents were given as Alexander Robertson, shepherd, and Elisabeth McLaren. Witnessed by Archibald Seaton and James Smith.

James was a carpenter in 1881 census.

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James Seaton and Helen (Nelly) Reid in Faskally

Moulin OPR, 5th September 1816
23rd August. (Contracted) James Seaton and Nelly Reid, both in this parish. Married September 5th.

Helen was the daughter of Alexander Reid and Elspeth Robertson, born 3 Jan 1793, Moulin OPR. Alexander Reid was the woodkeeper at Faskally House where James was the gardener.

The Minister of Moulin carried out his own census of parishioners over a five year period from December 1820, twenty years before the first official National Census of 1841, and both families are shown at Faskally House.

The servant, Margaret Seaton, probably was James's older sister.

James Seaton and his wife had four children between 1817 and 1826, but then Helen Reid died and James remarried.

James Seaton (Moulin parish) and Grace (Girsel) Robertson (Logierait parish), married 18 Jan 1834 (both parishes).

James Seaton and Grace (Girsel) Robertson had two children: James, 30 May 1836; and Christian, 3 Jun 1838.

James's combined families appear in the Moulin 1841 census, living at Ardgirnaig where James was both a crofter and a spirit dealer (his son John's death certificate states that James was a publican).

Identities of Donald Cameron and Janet Seaton are unknown. His daughter Vere was in Methven, 1/3 aged 17 years and probably employed as a servant.

James Seaton probably died in 1849 as, in Kilmaveonaig churchyard, there is the flat stone in front of that belonging to James's son Archibald which is inscribed "I S 1849" and the letter J is often carved as an I.

Need something on his wife Grace............... HERE.

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(Generation 4) The Children of James Seaton and Helen (Nelly) Reid in Faskally

(Generation 4) The Children of James Seaton and Grace (Girsel) Robertson in Aldgirnaig

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Archibald Seaton and Christian McLauchlane in Balinauld of Fincastle

At some time between 1841 and 1846 Archibald Seaton left Aldgirnaig and moved to Little Miltown of Fincastle Balmhuillin-beg), close to his uncle Robert Seaton who was a shoemaker in Balinauld of Fincastle. Archibald probably worked on the farm of John McLauchlan whose daughter he married, and both families appear on the Dull Census of 1851.

Christian was the daughter of John MacLachlane and Helen MacEwing, his second wife, born 1st April 1811. John MacLachlane's first wife was Janet Seaton from Moulin parish who he married, 16th July 1791. Janet Seaton died soon after the birth of their daughter Helen in 1802. John MacLachlane then married Helen Howan (McEwan), 9th July 1803. Helen's surname varies with each child's baptism (Ewen, 1804; MacEwen, 1806; MacEwing, 1811) and there may be others.

Dull OPR, 1 Nov 1846
Archibald Seaton and Christian McLauchlane, both in Miltown of Fincastle, gave up their names to be proclaimed (in order to marriage).

John McLauchlan seems to have died by 1861 as Archibald and his wife were farming Little Miltown in the 1861 census for Tenandry.

The couple were still farming Little Miltown in the 1871.

In the 1881 census for Tenandry.

Jane Lamond was Archibald's distant relative, the daughter of Donald Lamont and Jane Douglas.

Christian MacLachlan, married to Archibald Seaton, retired farmer, died at Wester Balrobbie 8th September 1892 aged 81 years. Parents given as John MacLachlane, farmer, and Hellen Ewan, both deceased.

There were no children from the marriage. Archibald Seaton died at Bridge of Fender in 1908 and was buried in Kilmaveonaig churchyard.

Archibald Seaton's Last Will and Testament was recorded at Perth Sheriff Court, 18th February 1908. The trustees were his brother John Seaton residing at Tenandry, and his nephew Donald Stewart, gardener at Knockderry Castle, Cove, Dunbartonshire. After the payment of all his just and lawful debts, deathbed and funeral expenses and the expense of executing his trust, his estate was equally split three ways, between: his brother John Seaton; his widowed sister Vere Seaton or Stewart at the Post Office, Fenderbridge; and his niece Isabella Stewart at the Post Office, Fenderbridge, Vere Seaton's daughter.

	In loving memory of Archibald Seaton (who) died at Fenderbridge 3rd February 1908 aged 91

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William Stewart and Vere Seaton in Fenderbridge

William Stewart in Bridge of Tilt and Vere Seaton in Aldgirnaig, Moulin parish married 16 Jun 1850. William Stewart worked as a carrier as shown in the 1851 census return for Bridge of Tilt.

It is an odd coincidence that they were living next door to Christian Seaton, the dressmaker, and her brother Donald.

Initially, the family moved around quite a lot, but eventually returned to Blair Atholl where Vere was post-mistress at Fenderbridge.

The Old Post Office, Glen Fender

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(Generation 4) The Children of William Stewart and Vere Seaton in Fenderbridge

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John Seaton and Betsy McIntosh in Balinauld of Fincastle

John Seaton married Betsy McIntosh 14 Sep 1851 (Moulin OPR), two days after their son James was born.

By 1861 they had moved to Balinauld of Fincastle where John's uncle, Robert Seaton, was a shoemaker. His elder brother, Archibald, and his wife were living next to them at Milton of Fincastle.

John and Betsy still were living at Balnauld in 1871 but the older children had left the family home.

At the time of the 1881 census John and Betsy were looking after a grandchild at Balnauld.

John Seaton, labourer, and widower of Betsy McIntosh died at Woodside Village, Cargill, 10th March 1913 aged 86 years. Parents given as James Seaton, publican, and Isabella (an error) Reid, both deceased. Informant was James Seaton, his son.

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(Generation 5) The Children of John Seaton and Betsy McIntosh in Balnauld of Fincastle

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James Seaton and Isabella Seaton in Cargill

On 6th December 1872 James Seaton, ploughman aged 24 at Letter, parish of Caputh married Isabella Seaton, aged 20 in Craigbea, parish of Logierait. His parents were given as John Seaton, labourer, and Betsy McIntosh. Her parents were given as Alexander Seaton, deceased shepherd and Jean Paterson. The witnesses were Alexander Seaton and John Seaton.

In the 1881 census James Seaton was working on the farm at East Hatton in Cargill parish (2/2).

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Susan Seaton in Ayrshire

In the 1881 census Susan Seaton was working as a cook for James Brown, Collector Inland Revenue, and his family at Orangefield House, Prestwick, Ayrshire. She was 27 years old and unmarried.

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Alexander Seaton and Janet Robertson

On 1st December 1887 at East Haugh of Moulin, Alexander Seaton, bachelor ploughman aged 25 years in Knochnadarroch of Logierait, married Janet Robertson, spinster domestic servant aged 26 years living at East Haugh of Moulin. His parents were given as John Seaton, saw miller, and Betsy McIntosh. Her parents were given as John Robertson, agricultural labourer, and Catherine Forbes, deceased. The ceremony was witnessed by John Seaton and Barbara Cameron.

It is said that the couple had six daughters and one son. One of the daughter, Bessie, was born in 1899 and married David Dick Kidd in 1925.

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John Seaton and Christian Robertson in Balnauld of Fincastle

The Dull parish OPR states that John Seaton and Christian Robertson were married 11th December 1817 and that both were from Dull parish, but does not state where. However there is an oddity in that the names of the two parties in the margin gives the bride's name as Christian Robertson, but in the main text gives her as Margaret Robertson. The latter would appear to be an error as the baptisms of all of their children mention Christian Robertson.

All of the children were born at Balnauld, so it would appear that both John Seaton and his brother Robert Seaton the shoemaker, were living at Balnauld.

Nothing more is known about the family after the birth of Isabel in 1824, and it is possible that the family emigrated around that time.

(Generation 4) The Children of John Seaton and Christian Robertson in Balnauld of Fincastle

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Donald Seaton and Margaret Scott in Easter Balrobie

Donald Seaton in Wester Balrobie and Margaret Scott in Balinloin of Shierglas, Dull parish, married 12 Jan 1768.

Donald Seaton is mentioned in the Testament Dative and Inventory of John Stewart of Bonskeid, 1768, in which he bought several items in the roup (auction) including a harrow (4s 2d), a grape and fork (8d), a summach (8d), and two chairs (2s 7d)

(Generation 3) The Children of Donald Seaton and Margaret Scott in Easter Balrobie

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Donald Campbell and Margaret Seaton Wester Balrobie

Donald Campbell in Ceannaghlinne (Moulin) and Margaret Seaton in Wester Balrobie, married 29 Jan 1771.

Donald Campbell and Margaret Seaton had seven children, the first four being born in Moulin parish and the last three at Wester Balrobie. Margaret Seaton died after the birth of her seventh child and with so many children Donald Campbell needed a new wife. Donald Campbell in Wester Balrobie and Margaret McIntosh in Chamberbane, married 12 May 1792, but with the birth of their first child, John, the OPR registrar accidentally wrote the mother's name as Margaret Setton, before scoring it out and correcting the mistake with Margaret McIntosh. Ann, the last child, was born at Ardtulichan in 1808.

(Generation 3) The Children of Donald Campbell and Margaret Seaton in Strathgarry and Wester Balrobie

(Generation 3) The Children of Donald Campbell and Margaret McIntosh in Wester Balrobie

John Campbell, son of Donald Campbell, farmer, and Margaret McIntosh, died unmarried at Corriehulichan, Tenandry, 22 May 1855. Informant was Alexander Campbell, his cousin.

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Donald Robertson and Elspeth Seaton in Easter Balrobie

Donald Robertson in Easter Balrobie and Elspeth Seaton in Wester Balrobie, married 15 Jun 1773.

All of their four children were born at Easter Balrobie but the registrar of the OPR made an error and wrote Christian Seaton instead of Elspeth Seaton for their first child, Jannet.

(Generation 3) The Children of Donald Robertson and Elspeth Seaton in Easter Balrobie

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Donald Forbes and Beatrice Seaton in Rinancoillach

The Blair Atholl OPR states that Donald Forbes in Lettochcroy, Moulin parish, and Betty Setton in Wester Balrobie, married 30th December 1780.

This may appear to be odd as Betty normally equates with Elizabeth but this is an example of where spoken Gaelic was being written in an anglicised form and her name probably was pronounced more like 'Beattie'.

Moulin OPR, 6 Nov 1781
Donald Forbes in Lettochcroy in Ground of Urrard and Betty Seton his spouse had a child baptised. The child's name - Alexander.

Moulin OPR, 25 Oct 1786
Baptised, Donald (son) to Donald Forbes in Lettochcroy and Betty Seton his spouse.

There were two Lettochs in Moulin parish. One was close to Pitlochry but this Lettoch was next to Urrard (Rinrory House) on the Killiecrankie battlefield.

Donald's brother James married Beatrice's sister Janet on 4th January 1785. The two brothers and their families were living at Rinancoillach, at the top of Glen Girnaig, in 1789 which is where Donald's daughter Margaret was born. It cannot be a coincidence that their brother-in-law, Duncan Seaton was also living there with his family at the same time. By 1791, all three families had gone their separate ways.

Donald Forbes returned to Wester Balrobie, where his wife had come from, probably as an agricultural labourer. Grissel, or Grace, was born there in 1791.

Margaret Forbes, married to James McGregor, agricultural labourer, died at East Haugh of Moulin on 28th May 1863 aged 75 years. Parents given as Donald Forbes, farmer, and Betsy Seaton, both deceased. The informant was her daughter Margaret McGregor.

(Generation 3) The Children of Donald Forbes and Betty Seaton in Lettochcroy

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James Irvine or Imrie and Grace Forbes in Meigle

Logierait OPR, 8th June 1817
7th June 1817. James Irvine, farmer in Croftcroy and Grizel Forbes, servant to Alexander Campbell in Balchandy, gave up their names for proclamation of marriage. Granted marriage lines 8th current.

Their daughters Isabel and Elizabeth were born in Croftcroy, Logierait, 19th January 1818 and 29th July 1819 respectively, but the baptisms of Margaret and Mary have not been discovered. Helen was baptised in Ruthven parish (Forfar-shire), 7th November 1830.

By 1841 the family had moved to the parish of Meigle and were working at the Deanfield Works which manufactured and dyed the cloth for umbrellas.

The 1851 census for Meigle shows the family still living at Deanfield but ScotlandsPeople has the surname as 'Imrie' as the writing is extremely difficult to decipher.

Grace Irvine, married, died at Deanfield, Meigle, on 2nd January 1857 aged 63 years and was buried in the parish churchyard of Meigle. Parents given as Donald Forbes, farmer, and Betsy Seaton, both deceased. The informant was her son James Irvine, 33½ Watson Street, Glasgow.

(Generation 3) The Children of James Irvine and Grace Forbes in Logierait and Meigle

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Duncan Seaton and Margaret Cameron in Fonvuick

The Blair Atholl OPR records that Duncan Setton in Balrobie and Margaret Cameron in Aodantian, married 12th July 1787. Aodantian is Edintian at the top of Glen Fincastle in Dull parish.

Soon after they were married Duncan Setton and his wife were living at Rinancoillach where their first two children, Robert and Donald, were born. Duncan's two sisters, Beatrice (Betty) and Janet had married Donald Forbes and his brother James, respectively, and they too were living at Rinancoillach. By 1790 the three related families went their separate ways, with Duncan Setton moving to Fonvuick with his wife and two daughters. All of the other children were born at Fonvuick. His daughter Elizabeth's death certificate says that Duncan Setton was a crofter.

As a word of caution, there is another couple with identical names living at the same time in the same area. Duncan Seton and Margaret Cameron both in this parish were booked in order to marriage (Moulin OPR, 14th October 1794). The family moved to the City of Perth where Duncan worked as a tailor, and their son James was born, 19th September 1798.

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(Generation 3) The Children of Duncan Setton and Margaret Cameron in Fonvuick

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Robert Setton and Marjory Douglas in Tynrich, Logierait parish

The marriage of Robert Setton to Marjory Douglas is recorded twice: once in Logierait parish, as expected, but also in the City of Perth. This second entry is not immediately obvious as the Douglas surname is given as Douglass, and the forename as Mey (sic). However it was not uncommon for May to be used as the familiar name for Marjory.

Logierait OPR, 29 Jul 1817
Robert Setton in the parish of East Church, Perth, and Marjory Douglas in Tynrich gave up their names for proclamation of marriage. Married at Perth by the Rev. Mr Findlay.

Perth OPR, 29 Jul 1817
Robert Setton, shoemaker in East Church parish, and Mey (sic) Douglass in said parish, daughter to John Douglass, cooper in the parish of Logierait. The persons before named were regularly proclaimed and married on the 29th day of July, said year, by the Rev. John Findlay, Minister of said parish church. (marriage contract 25th)

Marjory Douglas's parents were John Douglas and Mary (or Marjory) Robertson, who married 18 Dec 1781 in Logierait parish. She was born 16 Jan 1791 in Logierait.

Shortly after they were married Robert Seaton and his wife moved from Perth to London. Alex Saunders Martin, the family historian, says that the family lived on Fleet Street, St Bride parish, London, where their sons Robert, John and James were born. In 1826/27 the family returned to Scotland and settled in Newtyle, Angus, but soon moved to Tynrich (just north of Balinluig) in Logierait parish where Marjory Douglas had relations. Here the family established a shoe shop which ran for many years. This is shown in the 1841 census.

Robert Seaton died before the 1851 Census. When James R. Seaton surveyed the monument inscriptions of Kilmaveonaig churchyard in 1974, he added a comment to entry 48 (flat stone in turf initialed R.S., between centre window of church and flat stone 47) saying that it was the burial place of Robert Seaton, born 21st July 1788, died about 1850.

Robert Seaton died without leaving a will but, in an attempt to recover money owing to him, his widow gave in an inventory of Roberts's personal estate and had it recorded in the Perth Sheriff Court book, and this states that he died at Tynrich, 14th May 1850.

Firstly there was £34 deposited with the Perth Banking Company, with 3s 9d interest thereon.

Secondly there was a bill (an IOU) for £15 drawn upon and accepted by John Douglas, farmer in Croftnaskellaig dated 2nd February 1850 and payable two months after date, with interest of 1s 7d thereon from 5th April to 14th May 1850. Unfortunately there was a note saying that the debt was utterly desperate owing to the debtor's inabillity to pay it.

Thirdly the deceased's household furniture, effects etc. were valued by Finlay Scott, appraiser, at £23 7s 11d.

There then followed a list of his debtors, presumably for shoes bought or repaired, giving names and locations. The first 45 were of debts expected to be recovered and amounted to £68 4s 4d. The next 62 were dubious debts amounting to £146 18s of which 4/9th was expected to be recovered (£65 5s 9d). The last 34 debts amounting to £81 0s 5d were described as desperate and unlikely to recoverable.

Even if not all of the debts were honoured, there was enough capital to continue the shoemaking business as shown by the 1851 census for Tynrich, Logierait parish.

In 1852 Marjory Douglas and some of her family emigrated to Illinois. They may have been encouraged by her nephew George Seaton, who is credited with establishing the town of Seaton in Illinois. .

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(Generation 4) The Children of Robert Setton and Marjory Douglas in Tynrich, Logierait parish

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Robert Seaton, shoemaker in Tynrich

In the spring of 1839 the Earl of Eglinton had arranged to hold a grand tournament at Eglinton Castle during the month of August, and amongst the knights who resolved to compete at the lists was Lord Glenlyon, who entered himself under the style of 'Knight of the Gael'. About the beginning of August Lord Glenlyon determined to take a Highland bodyguard with him on his expedition into Ayrshire, and notice was given from Blair Castle to that effect. From a large number who volunteered their service a corps was selected, consisting of 3 sergeants, 4 corporals, 4 pipers, 56 privates, and 2 orderlies, under the command of 5 officers. One of the selected privates was Robert Seaton, shoemaker in Tynrich, height: 5 foot 8½ inches.

Robert Seaton, Tynrich in this parish and Christian Shaw, Adam Row, parish of Newton, gave up their names for proclamation of the Banns of Marriage, 1st May 1852, were proclaimed on the 2nd.

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John Seaton and Janet McFarlane in Kinloch Rannoch

John Seaton married Janet McFarlane, 19 Nov 1850, which is recorded in both the Logierait and Little Dunkeld OPRs. The family were living in Newtyle and Kinclaven before settling in Kinloch Rannoch around 1860.

1871 Census for Kinloch Rannoch

Blair Atholl churchyard monument inscription (C14) "In loving memory of John McFarlane Seaton J.P. who died at Craigour, Blair Atholl, 19th October 1950 aged 81 years. And his wife Jane Stewart who died 23rd February 1954 aged 78 years".

John Seaton, master shoemaker aged 52 years, married to Janet McFarlane, died at Kinloch Rannoch 6th January 1873. Parents given as Robert Seaton, deceased shoemaker, and Marjory Douglas. Informant was his son Robert Seaton.

After the death of his father, Robert Seaton moved to Blair village with some of his family, as shown by the 1881 census.

Seaton's, the saddler and shoemaker, specialised in hand made boots and shoes and the business remained in the family until it closed in 1975 upon the retiral of Alistair Seaton.

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(Generation 5) The Children of James D. Seaton and Elizabeth Saunders in Sumner Township, Illinois

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Duncan Seaton and Eliza Jane Crabtree in Mercer Co., Illinois

Duncan Seaton married Eliza Jane Crabtree, the daughter of Abraham Crabtree and Lucinda Murphy around 1860. They had two sons: Douglas J. and John. Duncan Seaton and Eliza Jane Crabtree have a memorial in the Candor cemetery.

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The Children of Duncan Seaton and Eliza Jane Crabtree in Mercer Co., Illinois

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Obituary - Jeannette Seaton, 4th February 1914

Jeannette's maiden name was Seaton; she was born in Perthshire Scotland, in the year 1837. She emigrated to the United States with the family in 1850 when they settled at Keithsburg, Illinois. In 1855 she was united in marriage to Jeremiah McIntyre. Eight children were born to this union, three of whom died in infancy. Those who survive her are J.W. McIntyre of Red Cloud, Nebraska; R.H. McIntyre of Milwaukee, Oregon; J.T. McIntyre of Burchard, Nebraska; Mrs Christian Dingwell, Pawnee City, Nebraska; and Mrs Ida Sloan, Eskridge, Kansas.

Jeremiah McIntyre died in 1868. In 1870 she married Joseph Patterson. This union was blessed with four children, all of whom are still living. They are Mrs J.A. brown, Palisade, Nebraska; Mrs L.D. Carter, Burlington Junction, Montana; J.C. and Miss Della who are still living at home.

In 1874 the family moved from Keithsburg, Illinois, to Lenox, Iowa, and in 1882 moved to Pawnee Co. Nebraska, where they resided ten years, and then moved to Superior, Nebraska, in 1892 where they located on a farm. She is survived by a husband, nine children (four sons and five daughters) forty grandchildren and fifteen great-grandchildren.

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The Children of Joseph Patterson and Jeannette Seaton in Superior, Nuckolls Co. Nebraska

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John Seaton and Isobel MacDonald in Fonvuick

John Seaton in Fonbhuick (Fonvuick) and Isobel MacDonald in Carie, parish of Logierait, married 24th December 1820. Isobel died before 1827 as the Blair Atholl OPRs also records that John Seaton in Fonbhuick (Fonvuick) and Christian Seaton in Ardtulichan, married 16th December 1827.

John Seton in Ardtulichan married Isobel Robertson in Fonvuick the following year, which suggests that he was Christian's brother, and the death certificate of John Seton in Ardtulichan gives his parents as John Seaton and Elspeth McRae or McCraw in Ardtulichan.

There are no entries in the Blair Atholl OPR for any of John Seaton's children, but they are listed in the 1841 census for Fonvuick.

As Duncan was 18 years old in 1841 he was born around 1823 and therefore Isobel MacDonald must have been his mother. All of the others were born after 1828, so must be the children of Christian Seatton.

John Seaton and his family emigrated to the United States of America in 1843, via Glasglow and Liverpool, sailing to New York aboard the ship 'Luconia'. They firstly settled in Juniata Co., Pennsylvania, remaining there until 1845, after which they moved to Mercer Co., Illinois.

John Seaton died 21st July 1881 and was buried in Candor Cemetery, Seaton, Mercer Co. His wife, Christian Seaton, died 20th December 1878 and was buried in the same place, where there is an arched memorial stone.

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The Children of John Seaton and Isobel MacDonald in Fonvuick

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The Children of John Seaton and Christian Seaton in Fonvuick

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Duncan Seaton and Martha Ellen Criswell in Mercer Co., Illinois

Excerpt from 'The History of Mercer County', 1882

Duncan Seaton was born in Perthshire, Scotland, October, 1823. He is the son of John and Isabel (McDonald) Seaton. He received a common school education, and came to the United States of America in 1843. He sailed on the ship 'Luconia', and on reaching America settled in Juniata county, Pennsylvania, where he remained about two years. From there he came to Mercer county, Illinois, and remained three years, when he took a trip to California by overland with an ox-team. After an absence of about two years he returned to Illinois, and settled in Abington township, Mercer County, where he now resides on a beautiful farm of 230 acres. Mr. Seaton was married in 1860 to Miss Martha E., daughter of Samuel and Rebecca (Bogle) Criswell. They have had twelve children, five of whom are deceased. The living are: Mary, David, Margaret E., Ann, Martha L., Harry, and Angus. Mr. Seaton is a member of the old school Presbyterian church. He is a greenbacker politically."

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The Children of Duncan Seaton and Martha Ellen Criswell in Mercer Co., Illinois

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John J. Seaton and Elizabeth Seaton in Mercer Co., Illinois

Excerpt from 'The History of Mercer County', 1882

John J. Seaton was born in Perthshire, Scotland, February 6th, 1831. He is the son of John and Christian Seaton. He came to the United States of America in 1843, going by steamship from Glasglow to Liverpool, and sailed from the latter place to New York in the ship Luconia. He settled in Juniata county, Pennsylvania, and remained there until 1845, when he removed to Mercer county, Illinois, and has lived here most of the time since. He received a common school education in Scotland and America. In 1854 he located in Abington township, where he now owns 350 acres of excellent agricultural land under a good state of cultivation, with good buildings and all necessary appurtenances to a complete rural home. He was married November, 1855, to Elizabeth, daughter of Robert and May (Douglass) Seaton. They have had nine children, five of whom are dead. The living are: Margery, John H., George D., and Lizzie. Their daughter, Christie Ann, who is among the deceased, was married to Mr. George Sponsler, and died at the age of about twenty-three years, leaving one child. Mr. Seaton is a republican, and a member of the old school Presbyerian church."

The Republican - Atlas - Monmouth, Warren County, Illinois - July 15th, 1904

John J. Seaton of Seaton and one of Mercer county's prominent residents died Friday afternoon at 5 o'clock. He was one of the pioneers in this section of the state and at the time of his death was 72 years old. Mr. Seaton's death was the result of a peculiar accident which befell him last Tuesday afternoon. While out fishing he stepped on a log which twisted and threw him on a sharp snag, penetrating the groin and causing a contusion and perforation of the bowels. An operation was performed but the nature of the injury was such that no relief could be given.

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Robert Seaton of the Illinois Infantry

During the American Civil War, Robert was a sergeant in 'G' Company of the 102nd Illinois Infantry (Volunteers). He died at Nashville, Tennessee, 31st October 1864, and there is a memorial to him in Candor Cemetery, Mercer Co., Illinois.

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George Seaton and Mary J. Brown in Seaton, Mercer Co., Illinois

George Seaton married Mary J. Brown in 1874. Their son was Robert James Seaton (1879-1943)

Extract from 'The Jacksonville (Illinois) Daily Journal', Friday March 9th 1929 - Page 8

Fatal Stroke - George Seaton, 90, founder of the town of Seaton and organizer of the state bank there died at his home in Seaton last night of a stroke.

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John Saunders and Margaret Seaton in Blairgowrie and Wellington Co., Ontario

Alex Saunders Martin, family historian, wrote the following about the family and their emigration:

John Saunders was the son of William Saunders in the parish of Blairgowrie and Isobel Neil from the parish of Lethendy, who married 20th January 1793. John married Margaret Seaton from the parish of Blair Atholl on 20th June 1819. Margaret was the daughter of Duncan Seaton and Margaret Cameron in Fonvuick farm near Killiecrankie. John was an overseer in a linen factory in Blairgowrie.

In the first week of March 1852 John and Margaret, along with daughters Elizabeth (Betsy), Mary and Janet (Jessie), son John, daughter Isabella (with her husband Peter Reid and son John Reid) and son James (with his wife Catherine and their children Margaret, Arthur and James) left the port of Leith with a party of Scots in a sailing ship bound for Canada. They entered the mouth of the St. Lawerence river in the last week of April. From here they traveled to Hamilton, Ontario where their son Duncan and his wife lived.

John Saunders died 13th March 1872 and Margaret Seaton died 15th November 1881, at their late residence Lot 3, Concession 1, Luther Township. Both were buried in Greenfield cemetery near Arthur, Ontario.

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(Generation 4) The Children of John Saunders and Margaret Seaton in Wellington Co., Ontario

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Allan Stewart and Janet Seaton in Balrobie

Allan Stewart in Balrobie and Janet Seatton in Fonbhuick (Fonvuick), married 11 Nov 1827 (Blair Atholl OPR).

The Children of Allan Stewart and Janet Seaton in Balrobie

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James Forbes and Janet Setton in Rinancoillach

The marriage of James Forbes and Janet Setton is recorded in both the Blair Atholl and Moulin OPRs.

Blair Atholl OPR, 24 Jan 1785
James Forbes in Lettochcroy, Moulin parish, and Janet Setton in Wester Balrobie married.

Moulin OPR, 29 Jan 1785
15th January. James Forbes of this parish and Janet Setton of the parish of Blair Athole were booked in order to be proclaimed for marriage. Were married 29th inst.

James's older brother, Donald Forbes, had married Janet's sister Beatrice and all four of them lived in Rinancoillach, at the top of Glen Girnaig. It cannot be a coincidence that their brother-in-law, Duncan Seaton was also living there with his family at the same time, but by 1791, all three families had gone their separate ways.

James Forbes and Janet Setton had two girls, as recorded in the Blair Atholl OPR. The first was Margaret who was born at Rinancoillach, 24th April 1789. The next child appears to have been born fourteen years later so.

Moulin OPR
Born 22nd March 1803, baptised 27th. A daughter to James Forbes and Janet Seton his wife in Balfuirt named Isabel

Balfuirt is shown as Bailephuirt on James Stobie's map of Perthshire (1783), and as Tynateid on the 1st edition of the Ordnance Survey map (1867).

The Minister of Moulin carried out a census of his parishioners between 1806 and 1808 and is it thought that the same James Forbes was farming at Mains of Urrard.

Moulin OPR, 28th February 1806
James Forbes and Isabel Setton, both in this parish, married 20th (March).

Isabel Setton was the daughter of Duncan Seaton and Elspeth Scot in Loinmarstaig, Glengirnaig. She was 41 when she married James Forbes and the couple only had one child, Donald, who appears on the 1806 census.

Moulin OPR, 2nd April 1807
Born 30th March 1807 and baptised 2nd April, a son to James Forbes and Isabel Setton his wife in Mains of Urrard, named Donald.

James and Isabel could not have been her children, especially as James was old enough the leave the family home, and would appear to be the children from James Forbes's first marriage to Janet Setton. She seems to have died after the birth of her daughter Isobel in 1803, wereupon James married the 41 year-old Isabel Setton.

(Generation 3) The Children of James Forbes and Janet Setton in Rinancoillach and Mains of Urrard

(Generation 3) The Children of James Forbes and Isabel Setton in Mains of Urrard

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John Seaton and Margaret Young in Fonvuick

John Seaton may have been the son of the John Seaton who was joint tenant of Fonvuick. He had a tack (lease) for a 1 merk land and Alexander McLauchlan had a tack for a 2 merk land. John Seaton, senior, is shown on the rentals in 1712 and again in 1715, but probably was farming Fonvuick for even longer.

John Seaton, junior, is mentioned as the master of Robert Stewart, who married Beatrix Robertson, servant to Robert Seaton in Wester Balrobie. At the time John Seaton was living at Wester Balrobie with his wife Margaret Young and daughter Isobell. Their children, George and Helen, were born at Wester Balrobie, but George died in childhood and another son was baptised with the same name when they returned to Fonvuick in 1752.

Elspeth Seaton in Fonvuick married William Scott in Coille Bhrochain, 7th June 1753. It is probably that she was the sister of John Seaton, junior. She and her husband lived at Boat of Invergarry, where he may have been the boatman.

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Donald Stewart and Betty Seaton in Kinordochy

A Betty Seaton was living in Fonvuick when she married Donald Stewart from Kinordochy, Dull parish, 23rd January 1762. The baptismal records of their three children name her as both Betty and Beatty, so it is unclear whether she was an Elizabeth or a Beatrix. Either way, it is most likely that she was a very much younger sister of John Seaton, junior.

The couple had at least three children.

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Robert Seaton in Fonvuick

The parentage of Robert Seaton is unclear and the only known record relating to him is from the Blair Atholl OPR which relates that Robert Seaton in Fonvuick and Florence McGilliwie in Tighnafeid had an illegitimate son baptised and named Donald, 24th May 1770.

Young men who had illegitimate children were normally in their early twenties, so one would expect Robert to have been born around 1745-1750. However there appears to be no baptism for a Robert Seaton in the local area around this time, nor is there any indication that Robert Seaton married at a later date.

It is possible that a search of the Blair Atholl Session Minutes for 1769 and 1770, may provide a clue as to his parentage but at present this has not been possible.

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James Stewart and Isobel Setton in Orchil-more

The Moulin OPR just states that both bride and groom were living 'in this parish', but the circumstances suggest that Isobel was the daughter of John Seaton and Margaret Young. Firstly, Isobel probably would have been in her early twenties when she married, and she is the only Isobel living in the locality. Secondly, their first daughter was baptised with the name of Margaret, which was the name of Isobel's mother. Thirdly, Margaret was born at Orchil-more, which is just the other side of the River Garry from Fonvuick.

Moulin OPR, 19th June 1767
James Stewart and Isobel Setton, both in this parish, being legally contracted, booked and proclaimed, and no objection offered, were married July 10th 1767.

The couple appear to have had only two children, ten years apart.

Moulin OPR, March 28th 1769
Baptised, Margaret to James Stewart and Isobel Setton in Orchil-more.

Moulin OPR, January 27th 1779
Baptised, Alexander .........................................need this entry...........