BILLY MARSHALL

Tinker - (1672-1792)

Born in Ayshire, Billy Marshall was of gypsy stock and gained a formidable reputation as a smuggler, thief, murderer and pugilist.

He is reputed to have been "King" of the gypsies in the South East of Scotland for most of the 1700's.

Among his many reputed exploits are; deserting from the army seven times, deserting from the navy three times, seventeen "lawful" marriages, numberless illegitimate children (four of whom were fathered after his hundredth birthday), four murders, numerous robberies and a vicious left hook.

He drank whisky to excess and was as happy sleeping outdoors as he was in a bed (possibly something to do with the whisky).

He died at the age of 120 and his tombstone stands to this day in the churchyard of St Cuthbert's in Kirkcudbright.