David Lindsay, 1st Earl of Crawford facts for kids
David Lindsay, 1st Earl of Crawford, was an important Scottish nobleman who lived a long time ago, from about 1360 to 1407. He was known for his bravery and skill, especially in jousting. He became an Earl in 1398, which was a very high rank in Scotland.
Who Was David Lindsay?
David Lindsay was the son of Sir Alexander Lindsay of Glenesk. When his father passed away in 1381, David took over his family's lands. Before he became an Earl, he was known as Sir David Lindsay of Glenesk. He was also the 10th Baron of Crawford in Lanarkshire. In 1398, King Robert II, who was also his father-in-law, gave him the special title of Earl. He also received Crawford Castle at this time.
A Knightly Life
Many historians believe that Lindsay helped organize the famous Battle of the Clans at Perth in 1396. This was a big fight between two groups of Scottish clans.
David Lindsay was also a very famous jousting champion. Jousting was a sport where two knights on horseback rode towards each other with lances. He fought against an English champion named Lord Welles. Their duel happened on St. George's Day in 1390.
The Famous Joust
During the joust, Lindsay knocked Lord Welles off his horse very easily. The crowd was so amazed that they started shouting. They thought Lindsay must have somehow attached himself to his saddle to stay on so well! To prove them wrong, Lindsay quickly jumped off his horse and then back on. He did this while still wearing his full suit of heavy armour.
After the joust, Lindsay saw that Welles was hurt. He quickly went to help him and took him to a nearby hospital. Lindsay visited Welles every day while he was getting better. They became very good friends after their famous duel.
Lord Crawford passed away at Finavon Castle in 1407. He was buried at the church of the Greyfriars in Dundee.
His Family
David Lindsay married Elizabeth Stewart. She was the daughter of King Robert II. They had four children together:
- Alexander Lindsay, 2nd Earl of Crawford (born around 1387, died 1438)
- Gerard Lindsay (died 1421)
- David Lindsay, Lord of Newdosk (born 1407)
- Elizabeth Lindsay (born 1407), who married Robert Erskine, 1st Lord Erskine and had children.
