Thomas Martin (1805-1879)
James Dodson
BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCH
Thomas Martin was born in the parish of Shotts, May 17, 1805. He was educated at Glasgow University and, later, attended the Theological Hall of the Reformed Presbyterian Church, in Paisley, from 1824 to 1827. He was licensed by the North Eastern Presbytery, at Airdrie, on July 8, 1828. He was elected the minister of Strathmiglo, on March 30, 1829 and was ordained on July 28, 1829. There he continued to minister for the remainder of his life. This congregation drew members form several parishes and often had 200 people in attendance. He was noted as an able and earnest minister whose concern was especially turned to the principles of the Covenanter church. His major publication was this catechism devoted to the principles and position of the Reformed Presbyterian Church. It went through several editions. He was married to Margaret M’Indoe, with whom he had several children, one of whom became minister of Kilbirnie. He died on January 25, 1879 and was buried in Strathmiglo.