Archibald Napier, 2nd Lord Napier facts for kids
Archibald Napier, 2nd Lord Napier (around 1625–1660) was a Scottish noble. He was the grandson of John Napier of Merchiston, who invented logarithms.
Biography
Archibald Napier was the nephew of James Graham, 1st Marquess of Montrose. Archibald strongly supported Montrose, who was loyal to the King. These supporters were known as 'Royalists'.
In 1646, Archibald went with Montrose to Norway. When Montrose returned to Scotland, Archibald stayed in Europe. He lived in Germany and Belgium.
In 1650, Archibald wanted to go back home to Scotland. He asked King Charles for permission to join his uncle. The King agreed. But before Archibald could return, Montrose was captured and executed. Because of this, Lord Napier decided not to go back to Scotland.
Archibald continued to support the King. Because of his strong loyalty, his lands in Scotland were taken away in 1654. This happened under a law called 'Cromwell's Act of Grace'. He died in Delfsham, Holland, in early 1660. He did not live to see the King return to power in the Restoration.
Family
Archibald Napier belonged to the Clan Napier family from Merchiston, Scotland. His grandfather was John Napier, famous for inventing logarithms.
Around 1642, he married Lady Elizabeth Erskine. She was the eldest daughter of John Erskine, the 19th Earl of Mar.
In August 1645, Elizabeth Erskine was held in Edinburgh Castle. Her sister-in-law, Lilias Napier, was also there.
Archibald and Elizabeth had five children:
- Archibald (died 1683), who became the 3rd Lord Napier.
- John (died 1672).
- Jean, who married Sir Thomas Nicolson of Carnock. Their son, Thomas (1669–1686), later became the 4th Lord Napier.
- Margaret (died 1706), who became the 5th Lady Napier. Her grandson, Francis (1702–1773), became the 6th Lord Napier.
- Mary, who never married.
