Alexander Masterton (1844-1868)

Miner, Dunfermline

Alexander Masterton, miner in Dunfermline, was involved in a breach of the peace incident in Bruce Street, but, unlike his co-accused, was found to be "not proven", a uniquely Scottish verdict, where there was insufficient evidence to convict but sufficient residual doubt to preclude an acquittal.

Genealogy

Alexander Masterton was the seventh of nine or ten children born to George Masterton, quarrier and coal miner, and Frances Shaw, who had married in 1831 in Edinburgh. Alexander married Janet Nelson in 1867 but died only a year later at the age of 24. He belongs to the large group of Mastertons that originated in the Cramond area. Fuller details of their extended family can be found at this link.

The Dunfermline Saturday Press

BURGH CRIMINAL COURT. - At this Court on Saturday - Bailie Alston on the bench - Edward Nelson, Mathew Cree, and Alexander Masterton, all miners, remanded from Thursday, were charged with having committed a breach of the peace in Bruce Street, on the evening of Wednesday the 24th, or morning of Thursday the 25th. Nelson and Masterton only appeared. After evidence had been led at some length, the charge against Nelson was found proven, and he was sentenced to pay a fine of 2s. 6d. ; while that against Masterton was found not proven, and he was dismissed from the bar. Cree forfeited a pledge of 10s. for his non-appearance.....

Dunfermline Saturday Press
3 November, 1866