George Bruce of Carnock

Sir George Bruce of Carnock (c. 1550 – 1625) was a Scottish merchant, ship-owner, and mining engineer. Family George Bruce was a son of Edward Bruce of Blairhall and Alison Reid, a sister of Robert Reid, Bishop of Orkney. His older brother Edward Bruce (1548-1610), was created Lord Bruce of Kinloss in 1602. Edward Bruce built the large mansion known as Culross House or Abbey House (now reduced in size) and George built Culross Palace. Coal, salt, and silver Bruce was an innovator in coal mining techniques, introducing undersea mining into the Upper Hirst seam with use of new drainage technology. These innovations attracted much interest, including a visit from King James VI in 1617. Sir George Bruce invited him to visit one of his mines which tunnelled down beneath the sea bed. James ventured into an entrance on land which went far out under the Firth of Forth and found himself emerging at the top of a stone tower sitting a quarter of a mile from shore. Alarmed to find himself surrounded by water, James accused Sir George of an attempt on his life and declared that the whole affair was an act of treason. It was only when George Bruce pointed out the rowing boat and explained that one could either use that or return by the tunnel from whence they came that James relaxed again - and took the option of the boat journey.