Jessie McKie

This item is an ornate certificate granting Jessie McKie status as 'Burgess of Dumfries' awarded by the Magistrates and Town council. Miss Jessie McKie (1823–1907) is famous for being the first and only woman ever granted the Freedom of the Burgh in Dumfries, Scotland. Known affectionately as the "Lady Burgess of Dumfries," she was a wealthy philanthropist who used her inheritance to fund major public works and infrastructure projects that transformed the town during the late 19th century. She gave money to Dumfries town council to help widen Buccleuch Street in 1893, and to build the public baths and wash-house on the Greensands. She also donated land in Catherine Street for the building of the Ewart Library. She is the only woman ever to be presented with the Freedom of the Burgh.

DUMFM:0225.294

Fine Art