Jean Gordon (Scottish Gypsy)
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Jean Gordon (c. 1670 to 1746) was born into one of the Gypsy tribes of Kirk Yetholm. She died in Carlisle in 1746.[1]
Bornc. 1670
Died1746
Carlisle, England
Causeof death
Murdered by drowningKnownfor
- Jacobite supporter of Bonnie Prince Charlie
- The inspiration for Sir Walter Scott's character Meg Merrilies
Jean Gordon | |
|---|---|
| Born | c. 1670 |
| Died | 1746 Carlisle, England |
Cause of death | Murdered by drowning |
| Known for |
|
Biography
Gordon, who was 6 feet tall, was said to be the inspiration for Sir Walter Scott's character Meg Merrilies in his novel Guy Mannering.[2]
In 1732, aged 62, she was charged at Jedburgh Court for 'being an Egyptian' and plea bargained to leave Scotland.[1]
Gordon was drowned in Carlisle, by an angry mob, for the support she voiced for the Jacobite cause and Bonnie Prince Charlie.[1][2]