Baldwin of Biggar facts for kids
Baldwin of Biggar was a very important and powerful noble in Scotland during the middle of the 12th century. He was given control over the area of Biggar and was made the main official, like a local ruler, for the Lanark/Clydesdale region by King David I of Scotland.
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Who Was Baldwin of Biggar?
Baldwin of Biggar was a key figure in Scotland around the 1100s. He was known as a "magnate," which means he was a very powerful and wealthy person with a lot of influence. King David I trusted him a lot, giving him important jobs and lands.
A Powerful Figure in Scotland
Baldwin was given the lordship of Biggar, which meant he was the main lord in charge of that area. He was also made the Sheriff of Lanark, a role that put him in charge of law and order and collecting taxes in a large region called Clydesdale. This showed how much King David I relied on him.
Battle and Settlement
In 1164, Baldwin, along with Herbert, who was the Bishop of Glasgow, led the Scottish army in the Battle of Renfrew. This was an important battle where they fought to protect Scottish lands. It's also believed that Baldwin was responsible for many Flemish settlers coming to live in the Lanark/Clydesdale area. These settlers brought new skills and helped the region grow.
Lands and Family
Baldwin held land in Inverkip from another important noble named Walter fitz Alan. This meant he controlled Inverkip in exchange for loyalty and service to Walter. He also held land in Kilpeter from Walter. Baldwin then gave control of Kilpeter to Hugh of Pettinain. Later, Kilpeter became known as Houston, which means "Hugh's town" or "Hugh's manor."
The lands of Pettinain were located between Baldwin's own lands of Biggar and Lanark Castle. Lanark Castle was where Baldwin managed the entire region he was in charge of. It's very likely that both Baldwin and Hugh were from Flanders, a region in Europe. Baldwin's stepson, John, is the person for whom the area of Crawfordjohn was named. After Baldwin, his son Waltheof took over his important roles and lands.
