GORDON, John (1750-1840), of Kenmure, Kirkcudbright Stewartry.

Gordon’s family connexions and estates gave him considerable interest in Kirkcudbright Stewartry, where he stood in 1780 as a Government candidate backed by the Duke of Queensberry. The Catholic relief bill of 1778 was a vital issue at the election (Gordon’s mother was a Catholic); and Gordon was defeated. The election, however, was declared void, and at the new election Gordon was successful against Peter Johnston. But Johnston brought a petition, claiming that Gordon had concluded a corrupt bargain with Alexander Stewart, and on 6 Feb. 1782 Gordon was unseated. His only recorded vote in Parliament was with Administration on 12 Dec. 1782 on Lowther’s motion against the American war.

His determined efforts to enter the House may have been inspired in part by a desire to acquire parliamentary immunity from his creditors, for his financial position was desperate. In May 1781 he executed a trust deed empowering the trustees to sell part or all of his lands to meet his debts. A considerable part of his other properties was, however, saved, including Kenmure castle.

He died 21 Sept. 1840.