Overview of Michael Bruce

Poet and author of Gospel Sonnets or paraphrases. Bruce was born in Kinnesswood (Perth and Kinross), where his father was a weaver. A talented child, who could read before the age of four, he studied at the University of Edinburgh and was destined for the Secession Church, but fell ill and died at the early age of only 21. The Rev. John Logan of South Leith published some of Bruce's poems under his own name, an action that resulted in years of controversy.

Known as the 'Gentle poet of Lochleven', his birthplace is maintained as a museum by the Michael Bruce Memorial Trust. A memorial service is held annually at Portmoak Parish Church where a wreath is laid on the poet's grave. The memorial stone was erected by the Rev. William Mackelvie, author of the first 'Life and Works of Michael Bruce'.