Glenbuchat Heritage

108 Dr Alexander Forbes Proctor, Towie

Dr Alexander Forbes Proctor, Towie

Pictures above are:
1 Birth entries for Dr Proctor and Dr Profeit’s brother on the same year
2.Map of Birth places of Dr Proctor, Bridge End Dr Profeit Nether Towie and Sir William MacGregor Hillockhead
3. Photos of sons of Dr John Proctor
4. Bridge-end, home of Dr John Proctor
5 On extreme right Doctor’s house in Rhynie
6 Grave of Dr John Proctor at Towie Churchyard.

I am grateful to Chris Tauber for the photos of Bridge-end and the gravestone.

The following article and the next page relate to Dr Alexander Forbes Proctor from Towie. His claim to fame is not just that he was a member of a Towie Medical family with his father, brother and brother-in-law all being doctors but the unusual circumstances of a large inheritance he received.


Click for details of Dr Proctors Inheritance.

Dr Proctor joins two other illustrious Towie Doctors from that time, Dr Alexander Profeit, Queen Victoria’s commissioner and Sir William MacGregor, Colonial medic and governor of British New Guinea and Quensland.
Dr Profeit was born 1833 at Nether Towie, Dr Proctor born at Bridgend Towie in 1839 the same year as Dr. Profeit’s brother John. And Sir William McGregor born in 1846 in Hillockhead Towie

The following tale is not only of the life of a rural doctor but also harkens back to the dark history of Scotland’s involvement in the slave trade, a lesbian relationship, and a well-publicised inheritance court case.

Firstly, the life of Dr Alexander Proctor.

His obituary below summarises his life.

OBITUARY, A. F. PROCTOR, LATE OF ABERLOUR.
Alexander Forbes Proctor, who was for many years medical practitioner and well known in Aberdeen, died at Kingston, Jamaica, Friday.

The late Dr Proctor studied Aberdeen University, graduating in 1861. After practising for many years in Rhynie, Dr Proctor acquired the practice of the late Dr Charles Crombie, Aberdeen. 'As heir-at-law the late Miss 'Macpherson Grant of Aberlour, Proctor came into possession the estate of Aberlour and extensive estates in Jamaica. He retained Aberlour estate for some time, and then sold to the late Mr J. R. Findlay.

Dr Proctor left Aberdeen for Jamaica April last. He was a man of a very lovable disposition, and was greatly respected and admired by a wide circle of acquaintances both in the city and county. He was about 65 years age, was married, and leaves a family.

Aberdeen Press and Journal - Monday 29 June 1903

From this obituary the following pages are a further exploration of his family history and the mystery inheritance.

The outline of the family tree will help to explain his future inheritance. Also note that Alexander’s daughter, Mary Anna Proctor, married Dr Charles Crombie, who’s medical practice in Aberdeen Alexander took on after Charles’ death.

Proctor Family Tree

John Proctor
Birth 19 May 1735 Aberlour, Banffshire, Scotland
Death Unknown
Parents Unknown
Spouse
Christina Bennet 1746–
Children
Alexander Proctor 1784–1859

Alexander Proctor 1784–1859
Birth 10 Dec 1784 Fochabers, Moray,
Death 5 May 1859 Tarland, Aberdeenshire,
Parents
John Proctor 1735–
Christina Benne 1746–
Spouse
Margaret McPherson 1791–1859
Children
John Proctor 1810–1854
Alexander Proctor 1812–1842
Robert Proctor 1814–1898
David Proctor 1816–1841
Thomas Proctor 1819–1820
Farquharson Proctor 1821–1882
James Proctor 1823–1888
Margaret Proctor 1828–1915

John Proctor 1810–1854
Birth 25 Jul 1810 Marnoch, Banffshire,
Death 14 Apr 1854 Towie, Aberdeenshire,
Parents
Alexander Proctor 1784–1859
Margaret McPherson 1791–1859
Spouse
Margaret Bowman Forbes 1817–
Children
Alexander Forbes Proctor 1839–1903
Mary A Proctor 1844–
John McPherson Proctor 1846–
Robert Farquharson Scott Proctor 1848–
James Proctor

1851 Scotland Census
John Proctor Age 40
Estimated Birth Year 1811
Relationship Head
Spouse Margaret Proctor
Where born Tarland, Aberdeenshire
Address Bridgend
Occupation C M of Glasgow General Practitioner
Household Members
John ProctorAge40
Margaret ProctorAge34
Ann RitchieAge23
Alexander ProctorAge11
Mary A ProctorAge7
John ProctorAge5
Robert ProctorAge3

Alexander Forbes Proctor 1839–1903
Occupation: Doctor, Aberdeen; 1871 General Practitioner M B University & King's College Aberdeen & L R C S Edinburgh & L M; 1881 M B Abdn Unity L R C Edin In Practice
Birth 27 Dec 1839 Towie, Aberdeenshire, Scotland
Death 26 Jun 1903 Kingston, Jamaica
Parents
John Proctor 1810–1854
Margaret Forbes Bowman 1815–
Spouse 1
Elisabeth Roger 1843–
Children
Mary Anna Proctor
Alexander Forbes Proctor 1866–1960
Elizabeth Rodger proctor 1867
Isabella Paterson Proctor 1868–
James Roger Proctor 1870–
Frederick Robert Hughes Proctor 1872–1946
Bessie Proctor 1873–
John Proctor 1877–
Spouse 2
Elizabeth Ritchie Fullerton 1851–1934
Children
Alice Harriet Proctor 1875–
Elizabeth Margaret Proctor 1877–
James Roger Proctor 1877–
Margaret R Proctor 1880–
William F Proctor 1898–

1871 Scotland Census
Alexander Forbes Proctor
Age31 Estimated Birth Year1840
Relationship Head
Spouse's Name Elisabeth Proctor
Where born Towie, Aberdeenshire
Address Roseville Cottage Rhynie
Occupation General Practitioner M B University & King's Collage Aberdeen & L R C S Edinburgh & L M

1891 Scotland Census
Alex F Proctor
Age51
Estimated Birth Year1840
Relationship Head
Spouse's Name Elizabeth Proctor
Where born Towie, Aberdeenshire
Address39, Albyn Place
Occupation Registered Medical Practitioner

Mary Anna Proctor 1843–1920
Birth 24 Jul 1843 Towie, Aberdeen, Scotland
Death 23 Apr 1920
Parents
John Proctor 1810–1854
Margaret Anna Forbes Bowman 1817–
Spouse
Charles Mann Crombie 1841–1884
Children
Margaret Crombie 1866–
Allice M Crombie 1869–
Charles M Crombie 1871–
Robert F S P Crombie 1877–
Venetia H Crombie 1878–
Mary U Crombie 1880–
Alexander Proctor Crombie 1881–
Jessie Crombie 1883–
Patrick (Peter) Crombie 1883–1925
Alfred Crombie 1885–

More details of Dr Proctors Grandfather are contained in a letter to the P&J in 1949

Referring to letter from Mr A. Walker, Aberdeen, in your issue of February 23,1949
I send you the following particulars
Alexander Proctor, whose name is on Mr Walker's grandfather clock, was born in or about 1784. He married Margaret McPherson, daughter of John McPherson, general merchant, and his wife Margaret Young, and had issue as follows:
(1) John, surgeon, Bridgend. Towle. who died April 14 1854 aged forty-four;
(2) Alexander, tertian Marischal College in 1833. afterwards a minister England: died November 10 1842. aged thirty;
(3) David died December 4. 1841. aged twenty-five;
(4) Thomas, died February 15. 1820. in infancy:
(5) Margaret, proprietor Badentoy. Portlethen. and Badentoy House, Queen's Gate. Aberdeen, who died at 193 Forest Avenue, Aberdeen, on March 7. 1915;
(6) James, who carried on the business.
Alexander Proctor died at Tarland on May 5, 1859, aged seventy-five. He and his wife and all the six members of the family mentioned above are buried in Tarland Churchyard, where there is a memorial stone.
James succeeded his father. He also farmed Braerodach in Cromar. In 1879 he purchased Kirkville, Skene, and addition to expending a large sum of money on the mansion house, he did much for his tenantry. James married Miss Ann Hector and he died on January 31, 1888, at Kirkville aforesaid.
James A. F. Murray (J.P.), Strichen.
Aberdeen Press and Journal - Monday 28 February 1949

Omitted above is Farquharson Proctor 1821–1882

Dr John Proctor (born Marnoch 1810 — 1854)
From Article by Colin Christopher Bennett 2001

His gravestone, raised by public subscription, stands in the grounds of Towie Kirk. It is located on the right-hand side of the path that leads from the church to the old school house. Dr John Proctor is also the subject of a testimonial (printed in full next) in the Aberdeen Journal on 11th November 1846 which goes on to relate how the Rev Mr Meiklejohn, on behalf of parish of Strathdon, entertained Dr John Proctor at the ‘Newe Arms’ and, ‘being anxious to testify their grateful sense of his valuable medical services, especially his gratis attendance at all times cheerfully given to the poor, resolved to present him with a small mark of their respect....a handsome fully mounted saddle, bridle, whip and spurs along with a purse containing £50....that very day, he could bear testimony to his attention to his patients lying in Typhus fever, which unfortunately was too prevalent’

Strathdon
Testimonial to John Proctor, Esq., Surgeon.
The friends of Mr Proctor in the parish of Strathdon, being anxious to testify their grateful sense of his valuable medical services, especially his gratis attendance at all times cheerfully given to the poor, resolved to present him with a small mark of their respect. On the 2d instant, Mr Proctor was entertained at the Newe Arms. After the removal of the cloth, the minister of the parish, the Rev. Mr Meiklejohn, presented him with handsome full-mounted saddle, bridle, whip, and spurs, along with a purse containing £50. He said he had great pleasure in complying with the request of the parishioners of Strathdon that he should present this testimonial of their good opinion. In deputing him to discharge this pleasing duty, they, no doubt thought that, from his own vocation in visiting the sick and the dying, he could not but be cognizant of the watchful medical care bestowed on them. It was his lot to witness much human suffering, and too much human misery; but as far as medical skill could alleviate that suffering, it was consolatory to know that Mr Proctor was willing and able to give it. No man could justly say that he was chary of his labour; many a dark and dreary ride he had—often in the depth of winters snow, his duty called him to the head of the parish (upwards of 20 miles long), yet it was never alleged that he refused to attend the call of the poorest patient. As his remuneration for attendance on the poor, he (Mr M.) had no hesitation in saying that in his opinion it had not hitherto been adequate, but he had the satisfaction of knowing that the subject was now under the consideration of the Parochial Board, and doubtless a satisfactory arrangement would be made. He (Mr M.) would not say more in his presence. This very day, he could bear testimony to his attention to his patients lying in Typhus fever, which unfortunately was too prevalent but it must be encouraging to him to know' that had here substantial proof that his services were not unappreciated. Let this be an incentive to still further diligence and usefulness. In the name of the parishioners, he begged his acceptance of the proffered gift. Mr Proctor begged, through the chairman, to return his warmest thanks to the inhabitants of Strathdon for this second testimonial of their good feeling towards him. He did not envy the man whose heart could remain untouched by so much kindness. He would not attempt to reply to the address they had just heard—he would only say that as long as he was among them, it would be his earnest endeavour to merit that good opinion now expressed a Gentleman he so highly respected, and whom he well knew was beloved the parish at large as their minister.”
Aberdeen Press and Journal - Wednesday 11 November 1846

There then followed a correction the following week to itemise the amounts given by each local area. This was over £110 equivalent today (2021) of £11,958.26. A very significant sum for a poor rural area.

We understand that, besides the present given to Dr Proctor in the populous parish of Strathdon, the parishes of Towie (without a single heritor) have lately presented Dr Proctor with a purse of Sixty Pounds; Kildrummy, Thirty-five; and Glenbucket Sixteen Guineas, for his long, active, and humane attendance on the poor of these parishes.
Aberdeen Press and Journal - Wednesday 18 November 1846

James Proctor (born Tarland 1823 - 1888)
One of Dr John Proctor’s brothers, James Proctor (born Tarland 1823 - 1888) was responsible for making provision for the establishment of the Proctor Orphanage at Skene in 1891, that has only just closed its doors in recent years. James Proctor remained at his birth place in Tarland until he was 36 years old, before moving to a farm near Aboyne in 1864. He married Anne Hector of Udney in 1866 and 12 years later he inherited a very sizeable sum, being his share of Miss Margaret MacPherson Grant’s legacy, a near relative, namely the estate of Aberlour and extensive plantations in Jamaica. At this time, he bought the Kirkville estate and hence the eventual development of the Orphanage at Skene.

He moved to Skene in 1874 after buying the estate of Kirkville and living in the Kirkville mansion house. In the same year a letter was lodged with the Sheriff of Aberdeen bequeathing part of his wealth ‘for a useful charitable purpose’ after his death. The foundation stone for the Proctor Institute was laid on the 15th October 1891 by his widow Mrs Anne nee Hector. A pamphlet outlining the history of the proctor Orphanage was compiled by children who both lived there and by those who had worked or been resident there in past years. The document was compiled to celebrate 100 years of the Orphanage in 1991 and this document is kept by the Aberdeen City Reference Library ref

Dr John Proctor had four Children
Alexander Forbes Proctor 1839–1903
Mary A Proctor 1844–
John McPherson Proctor 1846–
Robert Farquharson Scott Proctor 1848–
James Proctor

Dr Alexander Forbes Proctor (born Towie 1838 — 1903) He graduated from Aberdeen University in 1861 and married Elizabeth Roger, daughter of James Roger, a bank agent & merchant from Rhynie. He carried on for many years a wide and successful medical practice at Rhynie, before also becoming a beneficiary of the Aberlour and Jamaica estates. He moved to develop a remunerative consulting practice based at 9 Golden Square in Aberdeen by 1901, before sailing for Jamaica to take over the sugar plantations where he died two years later. Towards the end of his time in Aberdeen, he had lived with his eleven children at a number of grand city houses. Firstly 230 Union Street which is now in part the premises of the Skipton Building Society, and later at 39 Albyn Place, now the centre for corporate banking for Bank of Scotland.

Dr Alexander Forbes Proctor had 15 children born to him and his first wife Elisabeth neé Roger (born Rhynie), and five to his second wife, Elizabeth Ritchie Fullerton
They are as follows: _
Alexander Forbes Proctor. (born Rhynie) Married and lived in Vancouver Canada but had no children. He was an engineer, educated at the Aberdeen Grammar School and then attended Aberdeen University.
Isabella P. Proctor. (born Rhynie) Married a very wealthy silver mine owner Mariano McKenzie Penny. When she was 25 in 1894 and then travelled to Bolivia. She died six years later in 1900 in Antofagusta, South America
James Roger? Proctor. (born Rhynie)
Frederick Robert Hughes Proctor. (born Rhynie) An engineer educated at the University of Aberdeen
Bessie Proctor. (born Rhynie) Married a Dr. H..M..Nicholls, a Colonel in the Royal Army Medical Corps. Her address in 1924 was care of Glyn Mills and Company, Bankers, 3 Whitehall Place, London,
Alice Harriet Proctor (born Rhynie) 1875– Married a Mr Kitchener and moved to Calle, Santa Fe, 929 Tucuman, Argentine Republic.
Elizabeth M Proctor 1877– (born Rhynie) Married a Mr. Wilson and settled in Rosario, South America
James Roger Proctor 1877–
Margaret R Proctor 1880–
William F Proctor 1898–

Mary Anna Proctor (born Towie 1843) Married a (Dr) Charles Crombie at St Nicholas Parish Church in 1862 (and lived possible at his medical practice at 9 Golden Square Aberdeen),

Dr Robert Farquharson Scott Proctor (born Towie 1847-1881) He qualified MB ChB Aberdeen 1871and practised medicine at Belhelvie and both he and his wife are listed on the monument to his father He married a Shiels Ogston.

John MacPherson Proctor (born Towie 1845)


Alexanders move to Rhynie

Dr Alexander Proctor moved to Rhynie early in the 1860’s. He was married there on 06 Sep 1864 to Elizabeth Roger who came from Rhynie. Her father was a merchant and bank agent in the Muir of Rhynie. Their first child, also Alexander, was born in 1866. They were to have four more children together. On 10th December 1875 Alexander married Elizabeth Fullerton. Her father was a crofter from Belhelvie. A connection here might be related to the fact that Alexander’s brother Robert was the Doctor at Belhelvie. Their daughter Harriet was born the year of their married

It is assumed that they divorced as Elizabeth Roger died on 22 June 1934 (Also reported as 1928)

The wedding was reported in the local paper.

OUR village this week has been the scene of a little excitement, on the occasion of the marriage of Dr Proctor to Miss Roger. This young gentleman commenced the practice of his profession here a few years ago, and he has had the courage to woo and the good fortune to win the hand of the lovely daughter of one of our oldest established merchants. The auspicious event came off on Tuesday, and was attended by the friends of the parties, as well as a number of the aristocracy of the district. The happy couple left in a carriage directly after the ceremony, at something like railway speed. on what we hope is only a short marriage jaunt. as, should it be far prolonged. some of his patients may miss his attentions, but Dr Andrew, from Huntly, is to do duty till his return. Though deprived of the presence of the principal parties interested, we have no doubt the rest of the company spent an agreeable afternoon with Mr Roger, drinking health, long-life, and happiness. and a hearty welcome to the youthful pour when they return, a wish that will be shared in by most here, as during the short time he has been settled he has gained the confidence of a large proportion of the people in this district.
Huntly Express - Saturday 10 September 1864<


There then followed a correction the following week to itemise the amounts given by each local area. This was over £110 equivalent today (2021) of £11,958.26. A very significant sum for a poor rural area.

We understand that, besides the present given to Dr Proctor in the populous parish of Strathdon, the parishes of Towie (without a single heritor) have lately presented Dr Proctor with a purse of Sixty Pounds; Kildrummy, Thirty-five; and Glenbucket Sixteen Guineas, for his long, active, and humane attendance on the poor of these parishes.
Aberdeen Press and Journal - Wednesday 18 November 1846

James Proctor (born Tarland 1823 - 1888)
One of Dr John Proctor’s brothers, James Proctor (born Tarland 1823 - 1888) was responsible for making provision for the establishment of the Proctor Orphanage at Skene in 1891, that has only just closed its doors in recent years. James Proctor remained at his birth place in Tarland until he was 36 years old, before moving to a farm near Aboyne in 1864. He married Anne Hector of Udney in 1866 and 12 years later he inherited a very sizeable sum, being his share of Miss Margaret MacPherson Grant’s legacy, a near relative, namely the estate of Aberlour and extensive plantations in Jamaica. At this time, he bought the Kirkville estate and hence the eventual development of the Orphanage at Skene.

He moved to Skene in 1874 after buying the estate of Kirkville and living in the Kirkville mansion house. In the same year a letter was lodged with the Sheriff of Aberdeen bequeathing part of his wealth ‘for a useful charitable purpose’ after his death. The foundation stone for the Proctor Institute was laid on the 15th October 1891 by his widow Mrs Anne nee Hector. A pamphlet outlining the history of the proctor Orphanage was compiled by children who both lived there and by those who had worked or been resident there in past years. The document was compiled to celebrate 100 years of the Orphanage in 1991 and this document is kept by the Aberdeen City Reference Library ref

Dr John Proctor had four Children
Alexander Forbes Proctor 1839–1903
Mary A Proctor 1844–
John McPherson Proctor 1846–
Robert Farquharson Scott Proctor 1848–
James Proctor

Dr Alexander Forbes Proctor (born Towie 1838 — 1903) He graduated from Aberdeen University in 1861 and married Elizabeth Roger, daughter of James Roger, a bank agent & merchant from Rhynie. He carried on for many years a wide and successful medical practice at Rhynie, before also becoming a beneficiary of the Aberlour and Jamaica estates. He moved to develop a remunerative consulting practice based at 9 Golden Square in Aberdeen by 1901, before sailing for Jamaica to take over the sugar plantations where he died two years later. Towards the end of his time in Aberdeen, he had lived with his eleven children at a number of grand city houses. Firstly 230 Union Street which is now in part the premises of the Skipton Building Society, and later at 39 Albyn Place, now the centre for corporate banking for Bank of Scotland.

Dr Alexander Forbes Proctor had 15 children born to him and his first wife Elisabeth neé Roger (born Rhynie), and five to his second wife, Elizabeth Ritchie Fullerton
They are as follows: _
Alexander Forbes Proctor. (born Rhynie) Married and lived in Vancouver Canada but had no children. He was an engineer, educated at the Aberdeen Grammar School and then attended Aberdeen University.
Isabella P. Proctor. (born Rhynie) Married a very wealthy silver mine owner Mariano McKenzie Penny. When she was 25 in 1894 and then travelled to Bolivia. She died six years later in 1900 in Antofagusta, South America
James Roger? Proctor. (born Rhynie)
Frederick Robert Hughes Proctor. (born Rhynie) An engineer educated at the University of Aberdeen
Bessie Proctor. (born Rhynie) Married a Dr. H..M..Nicholls, a Colonel in the Royal Army Medical Corps. Her address in 1924 was care of Glyn Mills and Company, Bankers, 3 Whitehall Place, London,
Alice Harriet Proctor (born Rhynie) 1875– Married a Mr Kitchener and moved to Calle, Santa Fe, 929 Tucuman, Argentine Republic.
Elizabeth M Proctor 1877– (born Rhynie) Married a Mr. Wilson and settled in Rosario, South America
James Roger Proctor 1877–
Margaret R Proctor 1880–
William F Proctor 1898–

Mary Anna Proctor (born Towie 1843) Married a (Dr) Charles Crombie at St Nicholas Parish Church in 1862 (and lived possible at his medical practice at 9 Golden Square Aberdeen),

Dr Robert Farquharson Scott Proctor (born Towie 1847-1881) He qualified MB ChB Aberdeen 1871and practised medicine at Belhelvie and both he and his wife are listed on the monument to his father He married a Shiels Ogston.

John MacPherson Proctor (born Towie 1845)


Alexanders move to Rhynie

Dr Alexander Proctor moved to Rhynie early in the 1860’s. He was married there on 06 Sep 1864 to Elizabeth Roger who came from Rhynie. Her father was a merchant and bank agent in the Muir of Rhynie. Their first child, also Alexander, was born in 1866. They were to have four more children together. On 10th December 1875 Alexander married Elizabeth Fullerton. Her father was a crofter from Belhelvie. A connection here might be related to the fact that Alexander’s brother Robert was the Doctor at Belhelvie. Their daughter Harriet was born the year of their married

It is assumed that they divorced as Elizabeth Roger died on 22 June 1934 (Also reported as 1928)

The wedding was reported in the local paper.

OUR village this week has been the scene of a little excitement, on the occasion of the marriage of Dr Proctor to Miss Roger. This young gentleman commenced the practice of his profession here a few years ago, and he has had the courage to woo and the good fortune to win the hand of the lovely daughter of one of our oldest established merchants. The auspicious event came off on Tuesday, and was attended by the friends of the parties, as well as a number of the aristocracy of the district. The happy couple left in a carriage directly after the ceremony, at something like railway speed. on what we hope is only a short marriage jaunt. as, should it be far prolonged. some of his patients may miss his attentions, but Dr Andrew, from Huntly, is to do duty till his return. Though deprived of the presence of the principal parties interested, we have no doubt the rest of the company spent an agreeable afternoon with Mr Roger, drinking health, long-life, and happiness. and a hearty welcome to the youthful pour when they return, a wish that will be shared in by most here, as during the short time he has been settled he has gained the confidence of a large proportion of the people in this district.
Huntly Express - Saturday 10 September 1864<


In 1871 Dr Proctors address was Roseville Cottage Rhynie

Dr Proctor lived in the house noted on the right in the picture shown above. It was opposite the Richmond Arms Hotel and this had been the doctors house for many generations in Rhynie
While working in Rhynie, Dr Proctor had to deal with the routine cases seen by a country doctor and the newspaper reports below showed that he under took medical duties well beyond the competence of today’s GP’s including an amputation.

Fatal Accident
Last Tuesday, while an old man named Peter Garden, employed at the Auchindoir Quarries, was loosening a bank of fir on the top of a ledge of rock, about 50 feet high —much saturated with the great rains of late—a part of it gave way, throwing the poor man down. Other two men, William Fraser and William McGregor, heard his cries, and ran to his assistance. They soon got him extricated, but he was found to have sustained severe injuries —his left leg and most of his ribs on one side also broken, as well as otherwise internally hurt. Ile was taken to the house of Mr Cryle, manager, where every attention was shown him. Dr Proctor, Rhynie, was speedily in attendance, and did all that human still could do, but he only survived between four and five hours.
Huntly Express - Saturday 03 December 1864

Suicide by a Shoemaker.
On Sunday forenoon the body of John McPherson, shoemaker, was found by his brother, after returning from church the forenoon hanging piece of cord from a rafter in a loft above the shop. Deceased had at one time been confined in the Lunatic Asylum of Aberdeen, and had often been heard to say that he would make away with himself. Dr Proctor, Rhynie, saw the body immediately after it had been cut down, but life was extinct
Dundee Courier - Tuesday 25 April 1871

Gamekeeper Accidentally Shot While Shooting.
A very painful accident, which has resulted fatally, occurred in the Auchindoir district on Saturday, On the afternoon of that day John Ferguson, under-gamekeeper in the employment of Mr Hugh Gordon Lumsden of Clova, was' engaged at the side of West Hill Place hunting with a ferret and gun. When searching for the ferret among a quantity of whins, the fowling piece, which he held by the barrel while pushing aside some branches with the butt' end, suddenly went off, lodging its contents in Ferguson's thigh above the knee joint. The flesh was severely lacerated and the bone shattered to pieces. The unfortunate man seas carried to a neighbouring farm-house, and the injured leg was amputated in the evening by Dr Proctor, Rhynie, but Ferguson died about an hour after the operation through loss of blood, the main artery in his limb having been severed by the shot. Deceased, who was a native of Banffshire, was aged 24 years. and unmarried.
Glasgow Herald - Wednesday 19 January 1876

Rhynie Accident.
A little boy, about four years of age, son of Dow, police constable, met with accident Monday week. While accompanying girl the field with some cows, the boy had gone too near one of the cows, which turned round and knocked him down, and afterwards trampled on him. breaking one of his arms. He was shortly attended by Dr Proctor, and is now, we believe, well can in expected in the circumstances.
Banffshire Journal and General Advertiser - Tuesday 29 August 1865

Auchindoir: Serious Accident.
On Tuesday afternoon, while Alexander Martin, aged 14, roil of Mr Martin, farmer, Edinbanchory, was employed along with a brother in an outhouse cutting turnips with a machine. he accidentally fell among the turnips, and in the act of saving himself allowed his left hand to come in contact with the knives, whereby his hand was severely shattered, and almost amputated at the wrist. Robb, Towie, and Proctor, Rhynie, were called and dressed the hand. who give it as their opinion that amputation may not have to be resorted to.
Huntly Express - Saturday 06 April 1872

Sudden Death.
On Wednesday, 2nd inst., this district sustained a heavy loss through the sudden death of Dr Arthur Hay. The deceased gentleman had come down stairs in his usual apparent health, and while breakfast was being laid, went up again to his bedroom. No response being given when he was called, his daughter went to his room, and found him quite dead. Proctor from Rhynie was soon in attendance, and pronounced heart disease the cause of death. The doctor was well advanced in years, and had spent a great part of his professional life in the district. His uniform kindness and unwearied attention to all requiring his attendance were widely appreciated, and the mourning for his loss is correspondingly deep and sincere.
Aberdeen Press and Journal - Wednesday 16 July 1873

Dr Proctor’s services were obviously appreciated by the local community and in 1870 they made a presentation to him. He appeared to have recently suffered a bout of illness.

Presentation to Alex. Forbes Proctor, Esq., M B. etc. Rhynie.
On Friday ultimo, large and influential deputation of subscribers in the seven parishes, which Rhynie forms the centre, and over which his professional visits extend, waited on Dr Proctor, and presented him with handsome and valuable mare, fully equipped for the road, and pocket book of bank notes of considerable value. Mr. Henderson, V.S., Seggieden. Kennethmont, in an elegant address, complimentary of the skill, assiduity, and success which distinguished the practice of Dr. Proctor on his former residence in this quarter, and the pleasure with which the subscribers regarded his return in the enjoyment of renewed health, conveyed to him. along with these substantial proofs of the regard entertained for him. the wish that might long spared amongst them in the exercise of his profession, happy and prosperous. Dr Proctor, in returning thanks to his many friends, so well represented on the occasion, with great feeling assured them that was proud to think of the confidence reposed him so many that he highly prized their valuable gifts.
Banffshire Journal and General Advertiser - Tuesday 08 February 1870

Dr Alexander Proctor’s younger brother Robert died at the early age of 34. He was also a doctor and had been in practice in Belhelvie.

His obituary is as follows:

DEATH OF DR R. F. S. PROCTOR, BELHELVIE.

We regret to announce the death of Dr R. F. S. Proctor, which took place suddenly yesterday morning at his residence, Shiels, Belhelvie, at the comparatively early age of 34. There seems to be little doubt that the illness to which he succumbed was contracted during the past severe winter by his indefatigable labours at the scene of many of the shipwrecks that occurred on the Belhelvie coast.

About three months ago he was seized with bronchitis, but, though suffering a good deal, was able to attend to his practice, and indeed so recently as Saturday went his rounds in the' parish. The immediate cause of death was, we are informed, acute laryngitis, into which the bronchitis had developed. Dr Proctor has been in the Belhelvie district, which was his first prentice, only two years, and during his brief stay has earned the esteemed goodwill of all with whom he had come in contact, both in a professional and private capacity.

Before going to Belhelvie, and I immediately on completion his university curriculum, Dr Proctor assisted his brother-in-law, Dr Crombie, in Aberdeen, for some time. Dr Proctor was a native of Towie, Strathdon (where his father was engaged in the medical profession), and a brother of Dr A. F. Proctor, Aberdeen. The deceased gentleman, who has been married barely a year, leaves a widow and young child.

Aberdeen Press and Journal - Monday 18 July 1881

The Huntly Express gives more details about his last illness and also the last case he attended and who may have contributed to his infection.

DEATH OF DR ROBERT F. S. PROCTOR. BELHELVIE.

It is with very deep regret we announce the death of this amiable and promising young medical practitioner. The event occurred suddenly on Sabbath morning; he having been on attendance on patients on the previous evening although he had never fairly got the better of an attack of bronchitis with which he had been afflicted three months ago. Never of robust health, he had doubtless over-exerted himself during the past severe winter by his unwearied labours at the scene of many of the shipwrecks on the Belhelvie coast.

The event, although happening suddenly, was not unexpected. It is months since we learned he was unlikely to survive the summer, and be was medically advised to sojourn for some time in Italy, but devotion to his patients and profession deterred him from leaving the scene of his labours. Dr Proctor was a native of Towie, where his father was a medical practitioner, and brother of Dr A. F. Proctor, Aberdeen, formerly of Rhynie. During his University curriculum he was assistant to his brother-in-law, Dr Crombie, Union Terrace, Aberdeen, and about two years ago, he commenced practice on bis own account in Belhelvie, where he speedily secured the esteem and goodwill of all in the district. Six years ago, we formed the conviction that in whatever town or parish he might settle, the inhabitants thereof would have a most faithful and attentive doctor.

At the time referred to he was in attendance here, under Dr Crombie, in a case in which life and death hung in the balance after a surgical operation. For weeks he sat day and night by the bedside of his patient, carefully watching the pulsation and every feature of the case, telegraphing to his superior any change for the better or otherwise. Even Royalty itself was never more carefully attended to in critical times. Dr Proctor was married only about a year ago, and leaves a widow and child. The funeral took place on Thursday, his remains being laid in Towie churchyard, beside those of his father, mother, and other members of the family.
Huntly Express - Saturday 23 July 1881

THE LATE MR DAVID MERSON.
This gentleman, of whose sudden death we gave notice last week, was. we believe, a victim to the same disease as that of the late Dr Proctor of Belhelvie. Mr Merson returned from his office to his dwelling-house on the Wednesday afternoon, and was shortly after laid up. Means were at once taken for his relief, and although the medical men thought that after the tube bad been successfully inserted into his throat be might survive, his death took place, as we stated, last Friday. The remains were taken to Huntly, and interred in the New Cemetery. A number of townspeople met the corpse at the railway station and followed it to its last resting-place.

Dr Alexander Proctor’s son in-law, Dr Crombie, was also a Doctor in Aberdeen, and who also died young after a riding accident. Mr Charles Crombie had married Alexander’s sister Anna. He died at the age of 43 following a fall from a horse. He was in medical practice in Golden Square Aberdeen.

Death of Dr Crombie
While Dr. C, M. Crombie, of Aberdeen, was riding home from Muchalls his horse shied near Bourtriebush and threw him with violence to the ground. animal also kicked and fractured the base of his skull. The doctor was carried to a cottage at the roadside, where he died next morning. Dr. Crombie was 43 years of age.
Aberdeen Press and Journal - Monday 18 July 1881

Following the death of Dr Crombie, his son in law, Dr Alexander Proctor moved into Aberdeen to take over his practice. In 1881 his address was 230 Union and in 1891
He had moved to 39, Albyn Place. In 1883 his Union Street house was put up for let.

HOUSE, No. 230 UNION STREET, TO BE LET FROM WHITSUNDAY. This commodious house, now occupied Dr Proctor, contains ample accommodation for Family, and is very suitable for conducting a Medical may be seen on Mondays, 'Wednesdays, and Fridays. from Two to Four o'clock. For Cards admission and particulars, apply to Messrs Edmonds Advocates. No. 10 Bridge street.
Aberdeen Evening Express - Wednesday 21 February 1883

Dr Alexander Proctor died in 1903 in Jamaica presumably to see the business venture he had there, as noted in his will below.

Obituary, A. F. Proctor, Late Aberlour.
Alexander Forbes Proctor, who was for many years medical practitioner and) well known in Aberdeen, died at Kingston, Jamaica, Friday. The late Dr Proctor studied Aberdeen University, graduating in 1861. After practising for many years in Rhyme, Dr Proctor acquired the practice of the late Dr Charles Crombie, Aberdeen. 'As heir-at-law the late Miss 'Macpherson Grant of Aberlour, Proctor came into possession the estate of and extensive estates in Jamaica. retained Aberlour estate for some time, and then sold to the late Mr J. R. Findlay.

Dr Proctor left Aberdeen for Jamaica April last. He was a man of a very lovable disposition, and was greatly respected and admired by a wide circle of acquaintances both in the city and county. He was about 65 years age, was married, and leaves a family.

Aberdeen Press and Journal - Monday 29 June 1903

WILL or Dr Alexander Forbes Proctor, 9 Golden Square, Aberdeen, who died at Kingston, Jamaica, on the 25th U June last, left personal estate in the United Kingdom valued at £7811 7e Bd, of which £4935 10 2d was employed in West Indian merchandise. The trustees under his deed of settlement, dated 30th July 1902, are Mr Charles Downie Lumsden and Mr Edward Robertson Lumsden, advocates in Aberdeen.
Huntly Express - Friday 22 April 1904

The inventory of the heritable and movable estate in the United Kingdom and of the personal estate situated abroad of the late Dr Proctor, Golden Square, Aberdeen, has been lodged with the . Sheriff. Clerk of Aberdeenshire, and amounts ' to £ 10, 934, 16 s

£11,000 in 1903 is equivalent in purchasing power to about £1,346,309 in 2021

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