Alexander Elphinstone, 1st Lord Elphinstone facts for kids
Alexander Elphinstone, 1st Lord Elphinstone (died 9 September 1513) was an important Scottish nobleman. He was the son of Sir John Elphinstone.
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Serving the King and Country
Alexander Elphinstone started his career serving the Scottish King, James IV. In 1508, he was known as a "squire of attendance," meaning he was a trusted helper at the royal court.
Manager of Stirling
King James IV gave Alexander important jobs. In January 1508, he became the manager, or "Baillie," of Stirlingshire. He also became the "keeper" of Stirling Castle, which meant he was in charge of looking after the castle. He shared this important role with his wife, Elizabeth Barlay. They even oversaw some repairs and building work at the castle.
Becoming a Lord
In 1509, Alexander Elphinstone was given a special title: "Lord of Parliament." This happened at the baptism of Prince Arthur, one of King James IV's sons. In 1510, he officially became the 1st Lord Elphinstone. This was a brand new title in the Peerage of Scotland.
A new tower, called the Tower of Elphinstone, was built on his lands. This tower became the main home for the Lords Elphinstone for many generations.
A Role at the Royal Tournament
In 1507, Alexander Elphinstone took part in a royal tournament in Edinburgh. He played the part of a "Squire of the Black Lady." His job was to escort a lady known as the "Black Lady" in her special chair from Edinburgh Castle to where the tournament was held. Alexander and his friend William Ogilvy wore fancy white damask outfits for the event.
Family Life
Alexander Elphinstone married Elizabeth Barlay, an English lady who worked for Queen Margaret Tudor. Royal records show she received payments for her service. In 1505, she hurt her arm and was helped by the royal doctor, John Mossman. She also received gifts, like rosary beads, from the Queen.
Joint Keepers of Castles
In 1508, Alexander and Elizabeth were made keepers of both Stirling Castle and Kildrummy Castle. This meant they were responsible for maintaining and managing these important royal strongholds. They also managed some of their own lands. In 1513, Kildrummy Castle and other lands were officially given to them together, forming part of the new Lordship of Elphinstone.
The Battle of Flodden
In 1512, Lord Elphinstone helped another nobleman, Robert Bruce, get back his lands near the Pool of Airth. King James IV had built a dockyard there.
Sadly, Lord Elphinstone was killed at the Battle of Flodden in September 1513. Many other Scottish noblemen also died in this battle. After his death, his son, also named Alexander, became the 2nd Lord Elphinstone.
There was a rumor after the battle that Alexander Elphinstone might have been mistaken for King James IV. This was because he was similar in height to the King and was wearing royal symbols. Some people even wondered if the body found by the English was actually Lord Elphinstone or King James IV himself.
Children of Alexander and Elizabeth
Alexander Elphinstone and Elizabeth Barlay had several children, including:
- Alexander Elphinstone, 2nd Lord Elphinstone: He took over his father's title.
- Euphemia Elphinstone: She was the mother of Robert Stewart, 1st Earl of Orkney, who was a son of King James V of Scotland. Euphemia later married John Bruce of Cultmalindie. Her son, Laurence Bruce, built Muness Castle.
After Alexander's death, Elizabeth Barlay, Lady Elphinstone, later married John Forbes, the 6th Lord Forbes.
