Collectors & Explorers

From his earliest days on the shore with his father, David Landsborough took a keen interest in many aspects of natural history. In addition he studied geology, archaeology and local history, accumulated important collections, published works on botany, and discovered several new species of plant and animals.

He was President (later Honorary President) of the Kilmarnock Philosophical Institution and in 1884, when the Kilmarnock Glenfield Ramblers Society was formed, he became their first Honorary President. He led many rambles, was a frequent lecturer at the Society’s meetings, and he wrote six articles in the Rambler’s Annals.

His scientific pursuits were rewarded in 1901 when he was given the Honorary Degree of Doctor of Law by Glasgow University. In 1901 he reached his jubilee in the ministry and in addition to special church services there was a civic function at the Corn Exchange. For many years after his retiral in 1902, Dr. Landsborough enjoyed good health and continued his outdoor interests, but later his strength declined and in 1912 the “Grand Old Man of Kilmarnock” died.