Scottish Poet and Songwriter. He is best known for the nursery rhyme "Wee Willie Winkie." He wanted to become a surgeon but ill health prevented this and instead he took up woodworking and cabinet making. At the same time he began writing poetry and children's rhymes, mainly in the Scots language. His works were published in various magazines and also a collection entitled Whistle-binkie: Stories for the Fireside, which was published in 1842. He was known as "Laureate of the Nursery" and through translation, "Wee Willie Winkie" made him famous in other countries. In 1871 his leg became ulcerated and he had to retire from cabinet making. The leg later became infected and led to his death at age 62 in 1872. By then he was destitute and was buried in an unmarked pauper's grave. A monument to him was erected at Glasgow Necropolis by public subscription.
Scottish Poet and Songwriter. He is best known for the nursery rhyme "Wee Willie Winkie." He wanted to become a surgeon but ill health prevented this and instead he took up woodworking and cabinet making. At the same time he began writing poetry and children's rhymes, mainly in the Scots language. His works were published in various magazines and also a collection entitled Whistle-binkie: Stories for the Fireside, which was published in 1842. He was known as "Laureate of the Nursery" and through translation, "Wee Willie Winkie" made him famous in other countries. In 1871 his leg became ulcerated and he had to retire from cabinet making. The leg later became infected and led to his death at age 62 in 1872. By then he was destitute and was buried in an unmarked pauper's grave. A monument to him was erected at Glasgow Necropolis by public subscription.
Bio by: Peter Cox
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