Born: 1811 (Braehead near Denny, Scotland)
Died: 1901
Biography:
Christian Maclagan (1811–10 May 1901) was a Scottish antiquarian and early archaeologist. She is known for her collection of rubbings of Celtic crosses and Pictish stones from across Scotland, and was a pioneer of stratigraphic excavation. Despite losing the use of her right hand due to a medical condition, Maclagan produced numerous drawings, sketches, and paintings with her left hand. Her dedication to art and archaeology was only matched by her commitment to helping those affected by poverty in Stirling. Maclagan’s life was filled with remarkable achievements and unwavering determination, making her an influential figure in women’s history.
Born on the family’s farm at Braehead near Denny, Christian Maclagan was the daughter of distiller and chemist George Maclagan and Janet Colville of Stirling. Her father passed away in 1818, as did her paternal grandfather, Frederick Maclagan, the parish minister at Melrose. Following their deaths, her mother relocated the family to Stirling, where they settled in a house in Pitt Terrace, a prosperous area near St Ninian’s Well.
Even at an early age, Maclagan demonstrated her philanthropic spirit, engaging in activities such as establishing a Sunday School and subscribing to the cost of a library. After the Disruption of 1843, she joined the Free Church of Scotland and, in 1865, funded the construction of a new kirk. However, her relationship with the Free Church soured in the 1870s, leading her to sue for the return of the church, which she subsequently gifted to the established Church of Scotland.
Maclagan’s passion for archaeology was evident throughout her life. She developed a theory that megalithic circles and tombs were the remnants of houses and forts, believing that a thorough academic examination of such sites would unveil a message hidden within the archaeological language they contained. She diligently collected rubbings from hundreds of archaeological specimens, including Celtic crosses and Pictish stones, contributing significantly to the preservation and understanding of these ancient artifacts.
Despite facing physical challenges, Maclagan’s artistic skills were remarkable. Despite losing the use of her right hand, she continued to create exquisite drawings, sketches, and paintings with her left hand. Her talent and determination were truly awe-inspiring.
Christian Maclagan’s impact extended beyond her artistic and archaeological pursuits. She actively sought to help those affected by poverty in Stirling. Her unwavering dedication to social justice made a lasting difference in the lives of many individuals. Maclagan’s remarkable achievements and tireless efforts earned her a nomination to be honored as one of Scotland’s heroines at the National Wallace Monument’s Hall of Heroes.
Regrettably, while Maclagan wrote an autobiography, the script remains lost. However, her legacy lives on through her contributions to archaeology, art, and philanthropy. Her ability to overcome personal challenges and make a significant impact on society solidifies her place as a pivotal figure in women’s history.