Alexander Waugh (minister)

Alexander Waugh (16 January 1754 – 14 December 1841) was a Scottish Secession minister. He was a co-founder of the London Missionary Society and actively participated in the Religious Tract Society.

Born in East Gordon, Berwickshire, Waugh was educated at the University of Edinburgh and licensed to preach by the Associate Presbytery of Edinburgh in 1779. After serving briefly in Alloa, he accepted a call to the Secession congregation in Wells Street, London, in 1782, where he ministered for over 50 years.

Waugh was known for his evangelical preaching style and his commitment to missions and education. He was instrumental in the formation of the London Missionary Society in 1795, alongside Edward Parsons and others, playing a crucial role in uniting various denominations for the purpose of spreading the gospel overseas. He served on the Society's board and actively promoted its work throughout his life.

He also played a significant part in the early development of the Religious Tract Society, advocating for the distribution of Christian literature to the poor and unreached.

Waugh received a Doctor of Divinity (DD) from Jefferson College, Pennsylvania, in 1817. He was a prolific writer, publishing sermons, tracts, and devotional works. His biography was written by his sons, Hay Waugh and James Waugh. He died in London at the age of 87.