Joseph Robertson (priest)

Joseph Robertson (1726-1802) was a Scottish Presbyterian minister, historian, and antiquarian. He served as minister of the church at Callander from 1755 until his death. He is known for his contributions to Scottish historical research, particularly through his manuscript collecting and his efforts to preserve and catalogue public records.

Robertson was born in the parish of Kinfauns, Perthshire. He studied at the University of Edinburgh and was licensed as a minister in 1754. He was presented to the parish of Callander in 1755 and remained there for the rest of his life.

His historical interests led him to collect a vast number of manuscripts relating to Scottish history and genealogy. He transcribed many documents and corresponded with other prominent antiquarians of his day. His collections are now held in the National Records of Scotland and other repositories.

Robertson was a Fellow of the Society of Antiquaries of Scotland. He died in Callander in 1802. His work significantly contributed to the understanding of Scottish history, although little of it was formally published during his lifetime. His meticulous transcriptions and preservation efforts have proven invaluable to subsequent generations of historians.