Different school question. I have a grandfather who was the Headmaster of Haddington school(s)? in the late 1790's through early 1800's. I have come up with nothing to help substantiate this, aside from a 1807 newspaper article when he took a position in Dumfries which stated this was his background. Any ideas would be greatly appreciated. Also wish all the happiest of holidays and best wishes for a prosperous 2005! Hugh Preacher hugh.preacher@eds.com -----Original Message----- From: MIDLOTHIAN-L-request@rootsweb.com [mailto:MIDLOTHIAN-L-request@rootsweb.com] On Behalf Of Alan Ireland Sent: 22 December 2004 23:51 To: MIDLOTHIAN-L@rootsweb.com Subject: [MLN] RE: Public school question I believe the habit of calling private schools public schools is a peculiarly English phenomenon. In Scotland public schools are for the general public and always have been Best wishes, Sheena Ireland. -----Original Message----- From: Martha Chisholm [mailto:martha.chisholm@virgin.net] Sent: 22 December 2004 17:07 To: MIDLOTHIAN-L@rootsweb.com Subject: Public school question Can anyone help with this? I have someone who committed suicide in 1892 who was a head schoolteacher of a public school in Leith. We now refer to private schools as public schools, but did we do the same in 1892? I'd be grateful for any light shed on this one. Martha Chisholm ______________________________