A bailie or baillie is a civic officer in the
local government of Scotland. The position arose in the
burghs, where bailies formerly held a post similar to that of an
alderman or
magistrate (see
bailiff). Baillies appointed the
high constables in Edinburgh,
Leith and
Perth. Modern bailies exist in Scottish local councils, with the position being a courtesy title and appointees often requested to provide support to the
lord provost or
provost - the ceremonial and civic head of the council - in their various engagements.[1][2]
History
The name derives from
Old French and used to be synonymous with
provost, with several officials holding this role often at the appointment of the Church.[3]
The
jurisdiction of a bailie is called a bailiary (alt. bailiery).
The office of bailie was abolished in law in Scotland in 1975, and today the position of bailie is a courtesy title.[2]
Edinburgh City Council - appoints six bailies.[1] The position was reintroduced in the 2000s following the title falling into disuse after the 1975 reform of local government.[6]
Bailie William Landale, winner of the silver cup at the first open championship held at St Andrews Old Course in 1754, see
Timeline of golf history (1353-1850)