Alexander Douglas of Eagleshay facts for kids

Sir Alexander Douglas of Eagleshay (Egilsay), who passed away in January 1718, was an important Scottish politician. He served in the Parliament of Scotland from 1702 to 1707. Later, he became a member of the British Parliament from 1707 to 1713.

Douglas was the son of William Douglas of Spynie and Marjorie Menteith. He took over his father's estate after 1685. In 1688, he married Janet Scot.

His Political Journey

Douglas began his political career as a Shire Commissioner for Orkney and Zetland. This was a role in the Scottish Parliament. He served there from 1702 to 1707.

In 1707, he received the title of Knight. He was also chosen to be one of the first Scottish Members of Parliament (MPs) in the new Parliament of Great Britain. This new Parliament was formed when Scotland and England joined together.

Serving in the British Parliament

At the 1708 British general election, Sir Alexander Douglas was elected as an MP for Orkney and Shetland. One of his notable actions was voting in favour of an important decision in 1710.

In 1710, he was given a job as the Chamberlain of the Bishopric of Orkney. This job came with a salary. He was not keen to run for election again, but the government promised him money to help with travel costs to Westminster.

Later Years in Politics

At the 1710 British general election, he was re-elected as a Tory. He was seen as a 'worthy patriot' for helping to find problems with the previous government. However, he never received the travel money he was promised.

He decided not to run for election in the 1713 British general election. In 1715, he held a shared leadership role in Orkney.

Family and Legacy

Sir Alexander Douglas passed away in January 1718. He had two sons and three daughters. His wife died sometime after 1718. His estate in Egilsay was passed down through his eldest son, William, to his granddaughter, Janet. Janet married James Baikie, and they had a son named Robert.