Stewart, Helen D'Arcy

Helen D'Arcy Cranstoun was born in 1765 and was the daughter of the Hon. George Cranstoun. She was the sister of Sir Walter Scott's friend, the Countess Purgstall, and daughter of Thomas Brisbane, Ayrshire. Cranstoun was an intellectual and socialite and Dugald Stewart submitted his writing to her for her judgement. On 26 July 1790 she married Stewart, his first wife (Helen Bannatyne) having died in 1787. They had two children - George who died in 1809, and Maria D'Arcy who died in 1846. Helen D'Arcy Stewart died on 28 July 1838.

From the guide to the Correspondence and Work of Helen D'Arcy Stewart (1765-1838), 18th century-19th century, (Edinburgh University Library)