Alexander Fraser (died 1623) facts for kids

A stone dedicated to Alexander Fraser of Philorth.

Alexander Fraser of Philorth (who died in 1623) was an important Scottish landowner. He is famous for founding the town of Fraserburgh.

Alexander Fraser's old castle at Kinnaird Head became a lighthouse in 1787.

Alexander Fraser was the oldest son of Alexander Fraser (who died in 1564) and Beatrix Keith. Their family home was called Philorth, which is now known as Cairnbulg Castle.

Building Fraserburgh

In March 1570, Alexander Fraser began building a tower at Kinnaird Head. He also started building a church nearby. He worked hard to improve the harbour at Faithlie, which is now the modern town of Fraserburgh. In 1576, he began building a new harbour there.

Alexander Fraser had big plans for Fraserburgh. In 1597, he received a special permission, called a charter, to start a college or university in the town. This showed his vision for education and growth in the area.

Connection with King James VI

Alexander Fraser had a connection with King James VI. In April 1589, the King wrote to him asking for money. This money was needed to help with the King's planned marriage to Anne of Denmark.

Alexander Fraser was honored for his support. He was made a knight at a special event in Stirling Castle. This event was the baptism of Prince Henry, the King's son, on August 30, 1594. Other knights, like John Boswell of Balmuto, also helped pay for the royal wedding.

Family and Descendants

Alexander Fraser's son built Pittulie Castle in the 1590s.

Alexander Fraser married Magdalen Ogilvie first. She was the daughter of Walter Ogilvie of Dunlugas. Later, in 1606, he married his second wife, Elizabeth Maxwell. She was the daughter of John, Lord Herries.

Alexander Fraser and Magdalen Ogilvie had several children, including:

• Alexander Fraser of Philorth: He married Margaret Abernethy in 1595. She was the daughter of George Abernethy, Lord Saltoun. This Alexander Fraser built a tower and courtyard at Pittullie, near Fraserburgh. Their oldest son later became Alexander Fraser, 11th Lord Saltoun.
• Margaret Fraser: She married William Hay of Urie.

Alexander Fraser of Philorth passed away in July 1623.

Images for kids

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  A stone dedicated to Alexander Fraser of Philorth.

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  Alexander Fraser's old castle at Kinnaird Head became a lighthouse in 1787.

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  Alexander Fraser's son built Pittulie Castle in the 1590s.