St Mary's Bellevue, Edinburgh by Thomas BrownThe grave of the architect Thomas Brown, Greyfriars Kirkyard, Edinburgh
Thomas Brown (1781 – 5 June 1850) was a Scottish architect in the early 19th century based in Edinburgh. He is best known for St. Mary's Church, Bellevue, Edinburgh, usually known as Bellevue Church.
Life
Born in England, by 1809 Brown was an established surveyor and draughtsman. In 1817 he married Jane Dick Brown (d. 31 August 1839).
In February 1819 he received the prestigious appointment of Superintendent of the City Works in Edinburgh. This was during the city's major expansion to the north to create its New Town, and placed Brown on the then large salary of £250 per annum. In this role he replaced Thomas Bonnar who had been dismissed in early January 1819.[1] Brown was largely responsible for the northern streets of the "Second New Town".
During his time as Superintendent he employed David Cousin as his assistant and Cousin replaced him upon his retirement. This role was run from the City Chambers.
In the 1830s his address was listed as 6 Argyle Square (demolished in the 1860s to create Chambers Street),[2]
He retired in 1847 on a pension of £150 per annum.
He died at 54 George Square, aged 69, and is buried in Greyfriars Churchyard. The grave lies on the north–south path leading from the south-west corner of the church to the Covenanters Prison.
Family
He was married twice, firstly to Jane Dick (1790-1839), then following her death to, Margaret Carfrae (d.1870). Both wives are buried with him.
