Alexander Jardine of Applegarth facts for kids

Alexander Jardine of Applegarth was an important Scottish landowner and soldier who lived in the 1500s. He was known for his role in the Scottish court and his military skills.

A Scottish Soldier and Landowner

Alexander Jardine was the nephew of John Jardine of Applegarth. Their family home, Applegarthtown, is located in a beautiful area of Scotland called Dumfries and Galloway.

Alexander became a key figure in the court of James V of Scotland. He was appointed the Master of Artillery. This important job meant he was in charge of all the king's cannons and other big guns. He made sure they were ready for battle and used effectively.

Protecting Royal Jewels

In 1515, Margaret Tudor, who was the mother of King James V, decided to return to England. She was on her way from Linlithgow Palace and stopped at Tantallon Castle. Before she left, she entrusted a special box, called a coffer, filled with her valuable jewels to Alexander Jardine. He was responsible for keeping them safe.

The Siege of Tantallon Castle

Alexander Jardine played a significant part in a big event in 1528. This was the siege of Tantallon Castle. A siege happens when an army surrounds a castle or town to try and capture it.

At this time, the powerful Douglas family was holding Tantallon Castle against King James V. The king wanted to take it back. Alexander Jardine was ordered to work with two skilled gunners, Robert Borthwick and John Drummond. They had to figure out what artillery, or large guns, were needed for the attack.

They also needed to prepare for the gunners. This included getting tents for them to sleep in. They also needed timber, which is wood, to build special shelters. These shelters were called "apparelling" and they helped protect the cannons from enemy fire during the siege.

Family Life

Alexander Jardine was married to Elizabeth Maxwell. They had children, including a son named John Jardine of Applegarth. John later married Elizabeth Douglas.