Mary Erskine was a notable figure in the history of education in Scotland. She is best known for founding the Mary Erskine School in Edinburgh in 1694, which was established to provide quality education for girls. The school aimed to offer a curriculum that included subjects like reading, writing, and arithmetic, which were not commonly taught to girls at the time. Erskine's efforts were significant in promoting women's education during a period when opportunities for girls were limited. Her legacy continues through the Mary Erskine School, which remains a respected institution, emphasizing the importance of education for all genders.