Catherine Douglas facts for kids
Catherine Douglas, also known as Catherine "Kate" Barlass, was a brave woman from Scottish history. She is famous for trying to stop the killing of King James I (of Scots) on February 20, 1437. Catherine was a lady-in-waiting to the Queen of Scots, Queen Joan Beaufort. This means she was a noblewoman who helped and served the Queen.
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Who Was Catherine Douglas?
Catherine was a member of the very powerful Clan Douglas. This was one of the most important families in Scotland at the time. Her family connections linked her to royalty.
A Brave Act in Perth
The story of Catherine Douglas is a legend about courage. It happened when King James I was staying in a building called a Dominican chapter house in Perth. A chapter house was a special meeting place for monks.
The Night of the Attack
A group of men, led by Sir Robert Graham, came to the door. They were looking for the King to harm him. Sadly, the King's Chamberlain, Robert Stewart, Master of Atholl, had secretly removed the bolt from the door. This was the door to the room where King James and Queen Joan were staying.
Her Courageous Stand
When the attackers arrived, King James quickly hid in a sewer tunnel. The Queen and her ladies tried to cover the tunnel entrance. Catherine then rushed to the door. She bravely put her arm through the staples where the bolt should have been. She hoped this would hold the door shut and stop the attackers.
But the men were too strong. They forced the door open anyway. Catherine's arm was broken in the struggle. The attackers found the King and killed him. After this incredibly brave act, the story says Catherine was given the last name "Barlass." This name means "bar the door."
Her Legacy and the Saying "Katie, Bar the Door!"
The well-known saying "Katie, bar the door!" might come from Catherine Douglas's story. This phrase is used as a warning that trouble is coming. It reminds people to prepare for danger.
A famous poet named Dante Gabriel Rossetti wrote a poem about Catherine Douglas in 1881. It was called "The King's Tragedy." In his poem, he included the line "Catherine, keep the door!" This helped keep her brave story alive for many years.
