Alan Cathcart, 4th Lord Cathcart facts for kids

Alan Cathcart, 4th Lord Cathcart (born 1537, died 1618), was an important Scottish nobleman. He lived during a time of big changes in Scotland, including the reign of Mary, Queen of Scots and her son, James VI of Scotland. Lord Cathcart played a part in many events of his time.

A Life of Change

Alan Cathcart's father, Alan Cathcart, 3rd Lord Cathcart, sold their family home, Cathcart Castle, in 1546. Sadly, his father died in a battle called the Battle of Pinkie in 1547. Young Alan then inherited other family lands in the area of Cathcart. Today, the old site of Cathcart Castle is part of Linn Park, Glasgow.

Supporting the Crown

Lord Cathcart was involved in the politics of his time. In 1565, he signed an agreement in Glasgow to support Mary, Queen of Scots and her husband, Lord Darnley. This was during a conflict known as the Chaseabout Raid. Later, in 1568, he actually fought against Mary, Queen of Scots' army at the battle of Langside.

Service to King James VI

King James VI of Scotland recognized Lord Cathcart's loyalty and service. On January 3, 1579, the King wrote to Lord Cathcart from Stirling Castle. He praised Cathcart for his help against rebels. The King noted that Lord Cathcart's loyal service had made him poorer.

To help him, King James VI gave Lord Cathcart a special job. He became a Master of the Household in the royal service. This meant he would receive a yearly payment of 1,000 merks. Around this time, Lord Cathcart also completed the sale of some lands. These included the site of Bogtoun Castle, near Holmwood and Muirend.

Family Connections

Alan Cathcart, 4th Lord Cathcart, was the son of Alan Cathcart, 3rd Lord Cathcart. His mother was Helen Sempill, who was the daughter of William Sempill, 2nd Lord Sempill.

He was married to Margaret Wallace. She was the daughter of Hugh or John Wallace of Craigie. Her mother was Margaret Kennedy.

Succession

Lord Cathcart's oldest son, Alan, Master of Cathcart, passed away in 1603. When Alan, 4th Lord Cathcart, died in 1618, his grandson became the next Lord. This grandson was Alan Cathcart, 5th Lord Cathcart. He was the son of the Master of Cathcart.

The 5th Lord Cathcart married Margaret Stewart first. She was a daughter of Francis Stewart, 5th Earl of Bothwell. Later, he married Jean Colquhoun. She was a daughter of Alexander Colquhoun of Luss.