Leith Volunteer (Mr William Grinly)

The Royal Leith Volunteers were formed in 1795, with their colours formally presented that September in a ceremony attended by the Lord-Lieutenant. Among their officers was William Grinly, a merchant, ship’s broker, and auctioneer in Leith, widely known for his eccentric appearance, sharp wit, and pronounced self-confidence, which earned him the nickname “the Spread Eagle.” Though sometimes biting in humour and vain of his person, he was generally well regarded and a lively figure in civic and legal circles, often amusing friends with his theatrical manner and ingenuity. Fond of displaying himself in volunteer uniform, he became a familiar public character and the subject of caricature. Twice married and later blind, Grinly died in 1827 at nearly eighty years of age and was buried in the South Parish Churchyard.