Archibald Edmonstone of Duntreath (courtier) facts for kids
Archibald Edmondstone of Duntreath (died 1502) was an important Scottish landowner and a helper to the king. He lived a long time ago, during the time of King James IV of Scotland.
His Home and Family
Archibald's home was Duntreath Castle, located in Blanefield, Scotland. He was the son of William Edmonstone. Archibald became the third "laird" (a Scottish word for a landowner) of Duntreath from the Edmonstone family. Sometimes, the family name is spelled "Edmonston." His family also owned other lands in an area called Menteith, which they held from the Scottish crown.
Working for the King
Archibald and his son, William Edmonstone, both worked for James IV of Scotland. Archibald had many important jobs for the king. He was the king's butler, which meant he helped manage the royal household and meals. He also checked the king's money as an auditor for the Scottish government.
Archibald was also in charge of the Menteith area as its steward. He was the keeper of Doune Castle, meaning he looked after the castle and made sure it was safe. He also managed the royal hunting forests of Menteith and Glen Finglas.
Archibald used the income from the lands in Menteith to help pay for keeping Doune Castle in good condition. For example, he was paid for hosting James Stewart, Duke of Ross, at Doune Castle for three weeks in 1495. Doune Castle was considered a special home for Scottish queens. In 1502, before his marriage to Margaret Tudor, King James IV granted the castle to another person for a short time.
Being in charge of the castle and the Menteith lands sometimes led to disagreements. The Edmonstone family had conflicts with other landowners who also claimed rights to property in Menteith.
As the keeper of the hunting forest at Glen Finglas, Archibald Edmonstone helped organize royal hunting trips. He made sure the royal hunting party had a place to stay at the Hunt Hall in the glen. He was also responsible for providing food for the royal household. Archibald had to send food, like venison (deer meat), to the royal court. This was especially important when big banquets were planned for important visitors or ambassadors.
Archibald Edmondstone married Janet Schaw. She was the daughter of James Schaw of Sauchie. Their oldest son, William Edmonstone, also became the king's butler, just like his father. Another family member, James Edmonstone, was in charge of the king's silver dishes and cups.
William Edmondstone, Archibald's son, married Sibilla Baillie from Lamington. Later, he married Elizabeth Leslie. She was the daughter of George Leslie, 1st Earl of Rothes and had been married before to the Countess of Errol. Sadly, William was killed in a big battle called the battle of Flodden in 1513.
His sons, William and Archibald Edmonstone, were both very young when they were given a special job. In 1516, they were appointed to jointly look after Doune Castle for Queen Margaret Tudor.
Archibald Edmonstone of Duntreath is a very distant relative of Queen Camilla in modern times.
