John Bruce (1775–1834)

1834 October 31. "Died, at his house, in Percy-strect, Newcastle, in the 60th year of his age, Mr. John Bruce. For upwards of forty years he filled the arduous situation of a teacher of youth, first in Alnwick, his native place, and then in Newcastle. The deceased was the author of a work on geography, which has obtained very wide estimation, and he was also the compiler of other elementary works. At the time of his death, he had in conjunction with his son, the Rev. J. C. Bruce, the direction of one of the most extensive and flourishing seminaries in the North of England. His funeral, which took place on November the 5th, was attended by a large number of the principal inhabitants of Newcastle. Soon afterwards, an elegant monument, designed by Mr. J. Green, was placed in Westgate cemetery, over his remains, at the cost of his friends and pupils."

From: T Fordyce, J. Sykes. Local records; or, Historical register of remarkable events which have occurred in Northumberland and Durham, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, and Berwick-upon-Tweed..., published 1867

"At his house, in Percy Street, on Friday last, in the 60th year of his age, John Bruce, who for years filled the arduous situation of a teacher of youth of that town, without a week's secession of labour, except at the usual vacations, with the most distinguished ability and success, and the close of his career he had, in conjunction with his son, the Rev. J. C. Bruce, the direction of one of the most extensive and flourishing seminaries the north England. To Bruce the public are indebted for the most popular works in the language on Geography and Astronomy. He is also known as the author of an Historical and Biographical Atlas, and the friend and biographer of the illustrious Dr Hutton. But the character of Mr Bruce must not be contemplated in a bare professional point of view. In him was verified the declaration of the Royal Preacher, "Through desire a man having separated himself, and interimeddleth with all wisdom"; and in him the various religious, benevolent, and literary institutions the age found valuable friend and efficient supporter."

Durham County Advertiser - 7th November 1834