David Lindsay, 1st Duke of Montrose facts for kids

David Lindsay, 1st Duke of Montrose (born in 1440, died on December 25, 1495) was an important Scottish nobleman. He inherited a big title, the Earldom of Crawford, when his father passed away in 1453.

David Lindsay: A Scottish Nobleman

Early Life and Important Roles

David Lindsay became the Earl of Crawford when he was quite young, after his father died in 1453. Throughout his career, he held many important jobs for the king. He was the Lord High Admiral of Scotland, which meant he was in charge of the country's navy. He was also the Master of the Royal Household, looking after the king's home and staff.

Lindsay also served as the Great Chamberlain, managing the royal finances. He was a Justiciar, a top judge in the country. He often traveled to England as an ambassador, representing Scotland and discussing important matters with the English.

Becoming Scotland's First Non-Royal Duke

In 1488, David Lindsay received a very special honor. He was made the Duke of Montrose. This was a huge deal because he was the first Scotsman who was not part of the royal family to be given the title of Duke.

Lindsay earned this special favor from King James III. He stayed loyal to the king during a difficult time when the king's own son, Prince James, rebelled against him.

However, when Prince James became King James IV later that same year, he took away Lindsay's dukedom. But in 1489, the title was given back to him, though only for the rest of his life. When David Lindsay died in 1495, the title of Duke of Montrose ended. However, his family's older title, the Earldom of Crawford, continues to exist even today.

His Family

David Lindsay married Elizabeth Hamilton in 1459. She was the daughter of James Hamilton, 1st Lord Hamilton. David and Elizabeth had three children together:

• Alexander Lindsay, Master of Crawford (died in 1489)
• Elizabeth Lindsay (born in 1495)
• John Lindsay, 6th Earl of Crawford (born around 1495, died in 1513)

Arms