Christian Fletcher facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Christian Fletcher
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Christian Fletcher (centre) saving the Honours of Scotland
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| Born | 1619 or 1620 Kinneff, Kincardineshire, Scotland
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| Died | February 1691 |
| Nationality | Scottish |
| Known for | Helping save the Honours of Scotland from Cromwell's troops |
Christian Fletcher was a brave Scottish woman who lived a long time ago, from about 1619 to 1691. She is famous for helping to save the "Honours of Scotland" during a difficult time. These "Honours" were very important royal items, like the crown and sceptre. She protected them from soldiers led by Oliver Cromwell who were invading Scotland. Christian was married to James Granger, a minister at Kinneff Church.
Contents
Saving Scotland's Royal Treasures
In 1651, Scotland was in a war. The important royal treasures, known as the Honours of Scotland, were kept safe at Dunnottar Castle. But the castle was about to be taken over by English soldiers. So, the Honours needed to be moved quickly to a secret place.
A Secret Mission
The Honours included the Crown, Sceptre, and Sword of State. These were the symbols of Scotland's king and country. They were secretly taken out of the castle. Christian Fletcher played a key role in hiding them. The different parts of the Honours were brought to her care. She then buried them safely inside Kinneff Church.
How the Honours Were Hidden
People tell different stories about how the Honours were smuggled out of the castle. Some say they were hidden in a basket of clothes. Others suggest they were wrapped in bundles of flax. No matter the exact method, Christian Fletcher made sure they reached Kinneff Church. She kept them hidden there for many years, keeping them safe from the English soldiers.
Recognition for Her Bravery
After the war ended, Christian Fletcher's brave actions were recognized. In 1661, the Scottish Parliament gave her 2,000 merks as a reward. This was a lot of money back then. It showed how much her service to Scotland was valued. In 1663, she married James Sandilands, 1st Lord Abercrombie.
See also
- Charles II's coronation at Scone Abbey on 1 January 1651
