Andrew Gray, 1st Lord Gray facts for kids

Andrew Gray, 1st Lord Gray (born around 1390, died 1469) was an important Scottish nobleman, politician, and diplomat. He played a big part in Scottish history during the 1400s, helping the king and working to keep peace with other countries. His grandson later took over his title.

Andrew Gray's Life

Andrew Gray was the only son of Sir Andrew Gray of Fowlis. His mother was Janet, daughter of Sir Roger de Mortimer.

Early Years and Being a Hostage

In 1424, Andrew Gray became a 'hostage' for James I of Scotland. This meant he was held by the English government to make sure the king's ransom (a payment to free him) would be paid. Andrew's father promised that his son would be loyal and that he wouldn't lose his inheritance for being a hostage.

Andrew was first sent to Pontefract Castle. Later, he was moved to the Tower of London. He stayed there until 1427. Then, he was exchanged for another person, Malcolm Fleming.

Working for Scotland

In 1436, Andrew Gray traveled to France with Princess Margaret. She was the daughter of King James I. Princess Margaret was going to marry the Dauphin Louis, who later became King Louis XI of France.

In 1449, Andrew was chosen to be part of a special group in the Scottish Parliament. Their job was to look at old laws and make sure they were still useful and fair.

Between 1449 and 1460, Andrew Gray often worked as one of Scotland's representatives. He helped talk about and agree on peace treaties with England. He also made sure these peace agreements were followed. For a short time, he was also a leader in charge of the border areas, known as a Warden of the Marches.

In 1452, he became a main helper for King James II. This role was called Master of the Household.

Building a Castle and Later Life

On August 26, 1452, Andrew Gray received special permission from the king. He was allowed to build a castle anywhere on his lands. He chose to build Castle Huntly on his estate in Longforgan. This was in an area called the carse of Gowrie. This castle became the family home for many years.

In 1615, the castle was sold to the Earl of Strathmore. Its name was changed to Castle Lyon. But in 1777, a man named George Paterson bought it back. He had married Anne Gray, who was a descendant of the Gray family. He then changed the name back to Castle Huntly.

In 1455, Andrew Gray was one of the important nobles who helped take away the lands and titles of the Earl of Douglas. He was also very active in Parliament. In 1464, he became one of the judges who helped settle disagreements between people. He also went with King James III to Berwick. There, he helped confirm a peace agreement with England.

Andrew Gray died in 1469, likely near the end of that year.

Family Life

Andrew Gray married Elizabeth Wemyss on August 31, 1418. She was the eldest daughter of Sir John Wemyss. They were supposed to receive some land as part of her dowry, but this caused some legal issues later on. Elizabeth outlived her husband.

They had two sons and two daughters:

• Their older son, Sir Patrick Gray, died before his father. He had married Anabella Forbes. They had one son, who later became Andrew Gray, the 2nd Lord Gray.
• Their younger son was also named Andrew.
• Their daughters were Margaret (who married Robert, Lord Lyle) and Christian (who married James Crighton of Strathurd).