Alexander Pilche facts for kids
Alexander Pilche was an important Scottish citizen from the 1200s. He was a "burgess," which meant he was a free citizen of a town, like Inverness. Alexander joined forces with Andrew Moray in 1297. They were part of a big uprising in northern Scotland against King Edward I of England, who ruled over Scotland at the time. Later, Alexander even worked for the English as the Governor of Inverness Castle in 1304. But then, in 1307, he switched sides and helped King Robert the Bruce in his fight for Scotland's freedom. For his loyalty, he became the Sheriff of Inverness and held that job until he died.
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Alexander Pilche and the Uprising
Alexander Pilche was a well-known person in Inverness. He led a group of fighters to join Andrew Moray at Avoch Castle. Alexander quickly became one of Moray's most trusted helpers.
The Ambush of William fitz Warin
On May 25, 1297, Alexander and Moray planned a surprise attack. They ambushed Sir William fitz Warin. Sir William was an English knight. He was returning to Urquhart Castle with his group of followers. They had just met with another English leader, Sir Reginald le Chen, at Inverness Castle.
The ambush happened a few miles south of Inverness. Sir William fitz Warin managed to escape. However, he lost many of his men and horses. He quickly made his way back to Urquhart Castle.
The Siege of Urquhart Castle
The very next day, Sir William woke up to a surprise. Moray and Alexander had surrounded his castle. They demanded that he surrender.
Suddenly, Euphemia, the Countess of Ross, arrived. Her husband was being held by King Edward in London. She advised Moray and Alexander to give up. But they ignored her advice. Even so, she did not try to stop them. Sir William later praised her actions to the King.
Moray did not have large siege machines. These are tools used to break down castle walls. He tried to take the castle with a night attack. During this attack, Sir William's son, Robert, was killed. But the attack failed. Moray and Alexander had to give up trying to take the castle.
Working for the English
After these events, Alexander Pilche seemed to make peace with King Edward I. In 1304, he became the Governor of Inverness Castle. This meant he held the castle for the English king.
However, he was replaced in 1305 by a man named John de Stirling.
Joining Robert the Bruce
In 1307, King Robert the Bruce began his fight in Moray. Alexander Pilche joined him. Alexander played a very important part in the fall of Inverness Castle. This time, the castle was taken from the English.
After this success, Alexander was made the Sheriff of Inverness. This was a very important job. He held this position until he died.
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