111637: Alexander Maciver, Doctor

Alexander (1777-1852) was a son of John Maciver and Annabella Mackenzie, of Old North Tolsta Tack.

Alexander trained as a surgeon in Edinburgh, subsequently setting up a medical practice in Stornoway in 1800. He was in practice for 50 years; the medical practice was not run on a commercial basis, in that he never rendered accounts and only took payment if it was offered. He made his income from trading using ships; his father had been a shipmaster.

Alexander married Mary Macleod, but was widowed in 1819 when Mary died at the age of 35.

Alexander’s remarried shortly aftwards to Jean Anderson of Stornoway.

Alexander had a son, but it is not clear which of his wives was the mother.

Alexander died in October 1852 at the age of 75.

Further information can be found via the website of the Stornoway Historical Society.