Grant, Alexander (London) 1
| Dates | c.1740-1772 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Location | London | ||
| Vocation | Merchant and politician | ||
| Place of Birth | Mains of Dalvey, Inverness-shire | ||
| Marriage | Elizabeth Cooke | ||
| Issue | |||
| Place of birth | Source | Oxford Dictionary of National Biography |
Enrolled in an introductory medical course at University of Aberdeen. Emigrated to Jamaica where he practised medicine in the 1720s. Later, he took on work of a planter and entered into partnership with Peter Beckford. Profits from merchandising trade enabled him to move to London where he continued operating as a general merchant. Entered into partnership with Scottish druggist, Alexander Johnston, working in Magpie Alley, Fenchurch Street. Family then moved to Hatton Garden (1741) and then to Billiter Lane (1746). Partnership dissolved in 1753. Grant then concentrated on sale of sugar and providing provisions to West Indies; built a global merchandising empire. Claimed a title to a Nova Scotia baronetcy (1748, 1749). As a prosperous merchant with connections as court began to express an interest in politics. Elected member of Inverness burghs in April 1761. Died at house in Great-George Street, Westminster (1772) and buried at his home at Dalvey House, Forres.
