(James), an eminent experimental philosopher and mechanic, was born in Scotland, of very poor parents. At the earliest age his extraordinary genius began to exert itself. He first learned to read, by overhearing his father teach his elder brother; and he had made this acquisition before any one suspected it. He soon discovered a peculiar taste for mechanics, which first arose on seeing his father use a lever. He pursued this study a considerable length, even whilst very young; and made a watch in wood-work, from having once seen one. As he had no instructor, nor any help from books, every thing he learned had all the merit of an original discovery; and such, with infinite joy, he believed it to be. As soon as his age would permit, he went to service; in which he met with hardships, which rendered his constitution feeble thro' life. Whilst he was servant to a farmer, (whose goodness he acknowledges in the modest and humble account of himself which he prefixed to his last publication), he frequently contemplated the stars; and began the study of astronomy, by laying down, from his own observations only, a celestial globe. His kind master, observing these marks of his ingenuity, procured him the countenance and assistance of his superiors. By their help and instructions, he went on gaining farther knowledge, and was sent to Edinburgh. There he began to take portraits; an employment by which he supported himself and family for several years, both in Scotland and England, whilst he was pursuing more serious studies. In London he first published some curious astronomical tables and calculations; and afterwards gave public lectures in experimental philosophy, which he repeated (by subscription) in most of the principal towns in England, with the highest marks of general approbation. He was elected a Fellow of the Royal Society, without paying for admission (an honour scarcely ever conferred on a native); and had a pension of £50 per ann. given him, unolicited, by our gracious king, at his accession, who had heard lectures from him, and frequently sent for and conversed with him on curious topics. He also received several presents from his majesty, the patron of real merit. To what a degree of consideration Mr Ferguson mounted by the strength of his natural genius, almost everyone knows. He was universally considered as at the head of astronomy and mechanics in this nation of philosophers. And he might justly be styled self-taught, or rather heaven-taught; for in his whole life he had not above half a-year's instruction at school. He was a man of the clearest judgment, and the most unwearied application to study; benevolent, meek, and innocent in his manners as a child; humble, courteous, and communicative; instead of pedantry, philosophy seemed to produce in him only disdaintness and urbanity—a love for mankind and for his Maker. His whole life was an example of resignation and Christian piety. He might be said to be an enthusiast in his love of God, if religion, founded on such substantial and enlightened grounds as his was, could be styled enthusiasm. He died in 1776.