Coronation of Mary, Queen of Scots facts for kids
Mary, Queen of Scots was a famous Scottish queen. She was born in 1542 and died in 1587. Her parents were King James V of Scotland and Mary of Guise. Mary became Queen of Scotland when she was very young. She was crowned at Stirling Castle on September 9, 1543.
Becoming Queen
Mary's father, King James V, died soon after she was born in 1542. This meant Mary became queen when she was just six days old! Since she was a baby, someone needed to rule Scotland for her. James Hamilton, the 2nd Earl of Arran, was chosen to be the Regent. He would rule Scotland until Mary was old enough.
Mary and her mother, Mary of Guise, stayed at Linlithgow Palace at first. Regent Arran wanted Scotland to be friends with England. But Cardinal Beaton disagreed with this plan. There was a disagreement between these two groups. Eventually, they settled their differences. It was decided that Mary should move to Stirling Castle. She arrived there on July 27, 1543.
Mary's Coronation at Stirling Castle
We don't know many details about Mary's coronation ceremony. But we do know a few things from old records. These records mention food prepared for the day. They also talk about cleaning silverware for the event. An English diplomat named Ralph Sadler was watching the events. He thought the ceremony was not very expensive.
During the coronation procession, important people had special jobs. Regent Arran carried the crown. The Earl of Lennox held the sceptre. Campbell of Argyll carried the sword of state. These are all important symbols of royal power. The crown, sceptre, and sword used that day are still around today. They are known as the Honours of Scotland.
A Scottish writer named Robert Lindsay of Pitscottie wrote about the coronation. He said there were big celebrations at the castle. There were plays, comedies, and banquets. The Scottish nobles danced with the French ladies-in-waiting. Everyone had a grand time celebrating their young queen!
