Thomas Blacklock (1721 - 1791) was a Scottish poet.
He was born near Annan of humble parentage, and lost his sight as a result of smallpox when 6 months old. He began to write poetry at the age of 12, and studied for the Church. He was appointed Minister of Kirkcudbright, but was objected to by the parishioners on account of his blindness, and gave up the presentation on receiving an annuity. He then retired to Edinburgh, where he became a tutor. He published some miscellaneous poems, which are now forgotten, and is chiefly remembered for having written a letter to Robert Burns, which had the effect of dissuading him from going to the West Indies. He was made D.D. in 1767.
Last updated: 10-17-2005 11:47:49