The Buchanite Delusion, 1783 - 1846. By John Cameron. (R G Mann,
Dumfries. 5s.)—Elspeth Simpson or Buchan was an ill- educated woman of dubious character; Hugh White was a minister of the Relief Church in Scotland, who was expelled for theological errors. The two between them contrived a very curious religious movement. It had something of the Joanna Southcote character about it. But Elspeth Buchan's claim to be the Woman of the Apocalypse was not an affair of the future. The "man-child" was actually in existence, being no other than Hugh White. Some scores of people were led away by this delusion, one of the most transparent kind, one would think. But then there is nothing which will not find ready dupes. The Buchanite sect professed " Shaker " principles ; how far it was consistent it is difficult to say, nor is it worth while to inquire. All these things have a certain interest, but the details are squalid and repulsive. The only pathetic figure is Andrew Innes—and he was not a blameless person—who waited till the end of the fifty years when Elspeth Buchan had positively pro- mised to return. He kept the body in readiness for her to resume it, and spent the critical time in prayers and tears. The failure of his hopes did not disturb his faith. He thought that if be had been more worthy it would have happened. He lived four years longer, the solitary adherent of the " Buchanite Delusion." Not the least curious part of the story is the ferocity with which these deluded creatures were persecuted by their neighbours.
Previous page
