Christina Stewart, 4th Countess of Buchan facts for kids
Christina Stewart Douglas, Countess of Buchan (born around 1548 – died 20 September 1580), also known as Christian, was an important Scottish noblewoman. She held the title of Countess of Buchan in her own right, meaning she inherited it herself.
A Young Countess
Christina became the Countess of Buchan in 1551, taking over from her grandfather, John Stewart, 3rd Earl of Buchan. She was only about three years old when her mother died. At this young age, she was given control of the family's lands and important duties, as outlined in a special document from 1547. Because she was so young, Margaret Erskine, who was married to Robert Douglas of Lochleven, became her guardian.
In 1549–50, even though Christina was still a small child, a marriage agreement was made for her. She was supposed to marry James Stewart, who later became the Regent (a ruler who governs for a young king or queen). This marriage would have given him control of her lands. However, James Stewart later married someone else, Agnes Keith.
Christina instead married Robert Douglas, who was James Stewart's half-brother. Robert was the second son of Margaret Erskine and Robert Douglas of Lochleven. Because he married Christina, Robert Douglas became the Earl of Buchan himself. He also became the Sheriff of Banff, a local official.
Life and Politics
When Mary, Queen of Scots was held prisoner at Lochleven Castle in July 1567, Robert Douglas, Earl of Buchan, was one of the few people allowed to visit her. This shows he was a trusted person in those times.
In 1574, Christina Stewart and her husband, Robert, received an official document called a charter. This charter confirmed their ownership of the family's lands and important offices. It also set out how the titles and lands would pass down through their children.
Her husband, Robert Douglas, was very active in the politics of Scotland when King James VI was still a child. Robert supported his brother, Regent Moray, who was against Mary, Queen of Scots. After Regent Moray was killed in January 1570, Robert was one of four important lords chosen to help govern the country in the King's name.
Family Life
Christina and Robert had several children:
- James Douglas, 5th Earl of Buchan, who inherited the title after them.
- Christian, who married Richard Douglas.
- Mariota, who married Alexander Irvine of Drum.
- Elizabeth, who married Andrew Fraser of Muchals in 1592 and had children.
Christina's husband, Robert, died on 18 August 1580. Christina herself passed away shortly after, on 20 September 1580, in Aberdeen.
