Sir George Bruce of Carnock

Sir George Bruce of Carnock was a Scottish merchant and early industrialist credited with developing a highly innovative system of coal mining.

Born at Carnock in Fife, he settled at Culross which came into possession of his family following the Reformation of 1560. Under Bruce Culross evolved into one of the busiest trade ports one the east coast with its flourishing coal and salt industries.In 1575 he took charge of the Culross Colliery and invented a drainage system called the “Egyptian Wheel” by which he cleared a 1,5km long mine located beneath the River Forth. These innovations attracted much interest, including a visit from King James VI in 1617. For his achievements he was knighted in 1610. The Moat Pit continued to produce coal until 1625 when a major storm struck the area and the River Forth engulfed the coal works.

Involvement in coal industry, manufacture of salt and participation in foreign trade brought to Bruce a large fortune as well as a prestige. He served as Member of Parliament for Culross and a commissioner appointed by the Scottish parliament to treat of a union with England.