Archibald Douglas of Kilspindie facts for kids

Sir Archibald Douglas of Kilspindie (born around 1475 – died before 1536) was an important Scottish nobleman. He was also known as Greysteil. He worked for the King as the Treasurer of Scotland and was chosen three times as the Provost of Edinburgh, which is like a mayor.

Life Story

Becoming Important

Archibald Douglas was the fourth son of Archibald Douglas, the 5th Earl of Angus. His mother was Elizabeth Boyd.

In 1513, a big battle called the Battle of Flodden happened. Archibald's two older brothers were killed there, along with King James IV. After the King died, Archibald's nephew, Archibald Douglas, 6th Earl of Angus, married the King's widow, Margaret Tudor. His nephew then became the regent, meaning he ruled for the young King James V.

During this time, Archibald Douglas became very good friends with the young King James V. The King knew him by the nickname Greysteil. This name came from a popular song or story from that time. Archibald Douglas married Isobel Hoppar, who was described as a wealthy widow from Edinburgh.

When the Douglas family held power, Archibald Douglas became the Lord High Treasurer of Scotland. This was a very important job, managing the country's money. In 1526, he was also the Provost of Edinburgh. The King gave him and his wife, Isobel, a house in Edinburgh. This house was located near the Netherbow, a famous street in the city.

Losing Power

In May 1528, King James V managed to escape from the control of the Douglas family. According to a history book by Robert Lindsay of Pitscottie, the King left Falkland Palace and rode to Stirling Castle. At that time, Archibald Douglas was away.

When Archibald found out the King had left, he rode quickly to Stirling with his nephew, George Douglas of Pittendreich. But the King's messenger was waiting at the bridge. The messenger told them they could not come near the King.

Archibald Douglas and the rest of the Douglas family were later accused of treason. This meant they were seen as disloyal to the King. In September 1528, their lands were taken away by the Parliament of Scotland. The King gave Archibald's house in Edinburgh to the new Treasurer. Other lands belonging to the Douglases were also given to different people.

The Douglas family had to leave Scotland or go to the Scottish borders. King James V then attacked their castle at Tantallon. An English diplomat named Thomas Magnus believed that Isobel Hoppar, Archibald's wife, played a big part in these events.

Later, a family historian named David Hume of Godscroft wrote that Archibald Douglas returned to Scotland about 10 years later. He tried to speak to the King at the Royal Park of Stirling. The King recognized him but rode past him up to the Castle. Archibald followed on foot, even though he was wearing hidden armor. He arrived at the Castle very tired, but no one would give him a drink because the King had not shown him any kindness. After this, Archibald went to France because the King ordered him to.

Family Life

Archibald Douglas's wife, Isobel Hoppar, was mentioned in legal papers as his widow in 1536. This means he had passed away by then.

Their son and heir, also named Archibald Douglas, became the Laird of Kilspindie in 1543. This happened after his family's lands were given back to them. Their son also became the Provost of Edinburgh three times, just like his father. He served as Provost from 1554 to 1557, from 1559 to 1562, and again from 1562 to 1565.

Sources

• Fraser, Sir William, The Douglas Book IV vols, Edinburgh 1885