James Carmichael Watson (1910-1942)

Professor of Celtic, 1938-1942

Early Life

James Carmichael Watson was born in 1910 and educated at the Royal High School where he showed proficiency in classical studies. He then studied at the University of Edinburgh and was awarded the degree of M.A. in 1932 with a First in Classics. He went on to achieve a First in Celtic in 1934. He spent time travelling in Phrygia studying the Galatian civilisation followed with postgraduate study in Bonn, Germany.

Academic Career

Watson then became a lecturer in Celtic at Glasgow University, and succeeded his father as Professor of Celtic at Edinburgh University in 1938. His publications include ‘’The Gaelic songs of Mary MacLeod, Mesca Ulad, the Lament of ‘’Cathal MacMuireadhaigh for Iain Mor Macleod’’, and two additional volumes of Carmina Gadelica.

Death in Action

Professor James Carmichael Watson - Ordinary Seaman - was reported missing presumed killed in April 1942 while serving with the Royal Navy in the Mediterranean.

Relationships

• Youngest son of William John Watson (1865-1948), Rector of the Royal High School, Edinburgh, and later Professor of Celtic at Edinburgh University, 1914-1938, and his wife Ella Carmichael (1880-1928).
• Grandson of folklorist Alexander Carmichael (1832-1912).