Charles Gordon, 1st Earl of Aboyne facts for kids
Charles Gordon, 1st Earl of Aboyne was an important Scottish nobleman who lived in the 1600s. He was born around 1638 and passed away in March 1681. Charles was the fourth son of George Gordon, 2nd Marquess of Huntly and Lady Anne Campbell. He became the very first Earl of Aboyne and Lord Gordon of Strathaven and Glenlivet on September 10, 1660. This special title was given to him by a royal document called Letters Patent. When he died in 1681, his son took over his titles and lands.
Who Was Charles Gordon?
Charles Gordon came from a powerful and well-known Scottish family called the House of Gordon. Being the fourth son meant he had older brothers, but he still achieved a high rank in society. His father was a Marquess, which is a very high noble title, just below a Duke.
Becoming an Earl
In 1660, Charles Gordon was given the title of Earl by the King. An Earl is a noble who holds a high rank in the peerage, often owning large areas of land and having important duties. The document that made him an Earl was called "Letters Patent." This was a special public letter from the King that officially granted him his new titles: 1st Earl of Aboyne and 1st Lord Gordon of Strathaven and Glenlivet. This was a big honor and showed his importance in Scotland at the time.
His Family Life
Charles Gordon was married twice during his lifetime.
First Marriage
His first marriage was to Margaret Irvine around 1662. Together, they had one daughter:
- Lady Ann Gordon (who passed away around 1665)
Sadly, Margaret, his first wife, died in 1662, not long after their marriage.
Second Marriage
Charles Gordon married again on August 28, 1665. His second wife was Elizabeth Lyon. They had several children together:
- Charles Gordon, 2nd Earl of Aboyne (born around 1670, died 1702) - He was the son who later inherited his father's titles.
- Hon. George Gordon
- Hon. John Gordon (died 1762)
- Lady Elizabeth Gordon - She later married John Mackenzie, 2nd Earl of Cromartie in 1685.
Charles Gordon passed away in March 1681. His legacy continued through his children, especially his son, who became the next Earl of Aboyne.
