Sir Alexander Thomson
(1744-1817), Chief Baron of the ExchequerSitter in 2 portraits
by Henry Meyer, after William Owen
mezzotint, 1812
NPG D40433
by Henry Meyer, after William Owen
mezzotint, 1812
NPG D4364
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Eleanor Culley
28 March 2017, 19:48
Sacred to the memory of The Right Honourable Sir Alexander Thomson Knt one of his majesty’s most honourable Privy Council. He was born at Camberwell 6th Jan'y 1745 called to the Bar at Lincoln’s Inn, Mich’s term 1769, appointed a Master in Chancery May 1782. Accountant General Jan’y 1786 A baron in the Court of Exchequer Feb’y 1787 and Lord Chief Baron of the same court, to the universal satisfaction of the Bar, the Bench and the Nation 23rd Feb’y 1814.
He died in this city sincerely regretted 15th April 1817.
His understanding was sound and strong, his knowledge in every branch of the law accurate, extensive and profound; his impartiality invariable, his attention to criminals unremitting, his humanity judicious.
He was patient in hearing, laborious in investigating, cautious in deciding.
And his judgement (on which every man had more reliance than himself) seldom erred.
Simple and unostentatious in the application of his talents, and courting neither favour nor popularity, he deservedly obtained the confidence of the country.
To these public virtues were added, in the habits of his private life, a general acquaintance of literature and the arts, unaffected piety, unassuming manners, and steadfastness in friendship, with the kindest heart.
To perpetuate the remembrance of so useful an example and to record their own gratitude and affection, his two surviving nieces have caused this memorial to be erected.