Page 9 (1796-1866): New Brunswick Inventor, Entrepreneur and Geologist
Robert Foulis (pronounced Fowles) is an enigma. For over forty years he was extensively involved with numerous commercial and scientific activities in New Brunswick. Yet little is known, nor understood, of his unique contribution to the early scientific and business development of the province, including his significant contribution to marine navigation safety.
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Foulis was born in Glasgow, Scotland, on May 5, 1796,
the son of Andrew Foulis. His grandfather Robert, and granduncle Andrew, were
the founders of the famous Glasgow publishers `Foulis Publishing House'. Robert
studied engineering under his aunt's son-in-law before moving to Belfast in
1816. He married Elizabeth Leatham, who died in childbirth in 1817. Distraught,
he left his daughter Euphemia in the care of his aunt Euphemia, and set sail
for North America, landing in Halifax in 1818. |
Robert painted portraits and taught architectural drawing until he came to Saint John in 1821. He was soliciting backers for his "Tide Machine" for saw mills. Although he indicated at this time that he was planning on returning to Halifax, Robert obviously saw the enormous opportunities in Saint John for a man with his talents, energy and imagination. Foulis moved to Saint John the next year and lived there until his death on January 26, 1866.
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