Robert Stewart of Omoa, (later of Murdostoun), was a distinguised industrialist who inheritaged Omoa ironworks and other mineral interests from his father, and served as Lord Provost of Glasgow. He may have had a special interest in blackband ironstone reserves of the Balbardie estate which he lease between about 1862 and his death in 1866. During that time, the following pits were probably active
References
An application was laid on the table from Robert Stewart, Esq. of Omoa Ironworks, the present lessee of the Balbardie minerals, asking permission to lay down his own expense cast metal plates, or rails, North Street, for the improvement of the carriage traffic that street in connection with his own works. The Council granted the application on the express condition that should Mr Stewart see fit to remove the rails he should be held bound to leave the street in as good repair at present.
Falkirk Herald, 31st July 1862
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DEATH OF ROBERT STEWART, Esq. of MURDOSTOUN
A very painful feeling has this forenoon been caused on 'Change, by the rumoured death of Mr Stewart of Murdostoun, better known as of Omoa, and formerly Lord Provost of Glasgow. On inquiry we learn that the rumour is too true—the worthy gentleman having been taken suddenly ill last night, and died at one o'clock this morning at Murdostoun, his country seat. On Thursday last he was in town in his usual health, having been at a marriage on the previous evening. He was, we believe, about 54 years of age, and has left a widow and three children, the eldest about 13 years of age.
Fifeshire Journal, 13th September 1866
