Alan, Earl of Menteith facts for kids
Alan, Earl of Menteith was an important Scottish nobleman who lived a long time ago, around the late 1200s and early 1300s. He was a powerful leader in Scotland during a difficult time known as the Wars of Scottish Independence.
Alan's Early Life
Alan was the son of another important Scottish leader, Alexander, Earl of Menteith. We first hear about Alan in 1296. At that time, he was sent to England as a "hostage." This meant he had to stay in England to make sure his father behaved well and followed the rules set by the English King.
In 1297, Alan and his brother, Peter Menteith, traveled with the English King. They went on a trip to a place called Flanders (which is now part of Belgium). Alan and Peter served as "esquires," which were young noblemen who helped knights and kings.
Supporting Robert the Bruce
Alan was a strong supporter of Robert the Bruce. Robert the Bruce wanted to become King of Scotland after John Balliol was removed from power. Alan helped Robert the Bruce in his first try to take control.
Because Alan supported Robert the Bruce, the English King, Edward I of England, declared that Alan had "forfeited" his lands and title. This meant Alan lost everything. His lands and title were then given to an English nobleman named John Hastings, 1st Baron Hastings.
Capture and Imprisonment
Alan was captured during a battle called the Battle of Methven. After his capture, he was handed over to John Hastings. Alan was then sent to Abergavenny Castle in Wales, where he was held as a prisoner.
Alan died while he was still a prisoner. This happened sometime before March 13, 1309. After his death, John Hastings allowed Alan's wife, Margery, to live on some of the land that used to belong to Alan.
Alan was succeeded as Earl of Menteith by his son, Alan II, Earl of Menteith. His son was still very young when he took over the title.
Family Life
Alan, Earl of Menteith, was married to a woman named Marjory or Margery. She was the daughter of Colbán, Earl of Fife, and his wife, Anne Durward.
Alan and Margery had two sons. One of their sons, also named Alan, became the next Earl of Menteith after his father passed away. He was still a minor, meaning he was under the age of 18, when he inherited the title.
