Dr John Mackenzie (1803-86): Proponent of Scientific Agriculture and Opponent of Highland Emigration.

HIGHLANDS (Scotland); GAIRLOCH (Scotland); SCOTLAND

MACKENZIE, John; MCNEILL, John; TREVELYAN, Charles E. (Charles Edward), 1807-1886

The article discusses nineteenth century Scottish physician and estate manager Dr. John MacKenzie and his opposition to emigration from the Scottish Highlands and Islands. It comments on his belief in science-based agricultural improvement to maintain the region's population. The author considers MacKenzie's manuscript diaries and addresses how his family background and education influenced his ideas. The Highland and Islands Emigration Scheme, supported by British Assistant Secretary to the Treasury Sir Charles Edward Trevelyan and his administrative associate Sir John McNeill, is examined. MacKenzie's agricultural improvement advocacy on the family estate at Gairloch in Wester Ross, Scotland is considered.