In 1677 the Gilcomston area was bought by Aberdeen Town Council, partially using Dun Trust funds contrary to their dedicated application in favour of employing teachers for the Aberdeen Grammar School. Some restitution was later demanded and received. See http://aberdeenvoice.com/2010/11/a-scandalous-dissipation-back-to-the- future/
By 1775 the neighbourhood was a centre for the weaving trade in Aberdeen.