LAURIE, James, clergyman, born in Edinburgh, Scotland, 11 February, 1778; died in Washington, D. C., 18 April, 1853. He was educated at the University of Edinburgh and licensed to preach in 1800. About 1802 the Reverend John M. Mason, who was then in Scotland, urged him to emigrate to the United States and enter the service of the Associate Reformed church. This denomination had formed a new congregation in Washington, D. C., of which Mr. Laurie was installed pastor in June, 1803. For several years he preached in the old treasury building, which was burned by the British in 1814. He labored to build a church, and travelled from Boston, Massachusetts, to Savannah to solicit aid with such success that in 1807 a brick edifice was opened for service, which was the second Protestant church in Washington. He held charge of this pastorate for forty-six years, and was also employed in the treasury, holding office till his death. Williams gave him the degree of D. D. in 1815.