David fitz Walter of Cadzow facts for kids
Sir David fitz Walter of Cadzow (born before 1346 – died before 1378) was an important Scottish nobleman. He was the second Laird (or lord) of Cadzow, a large area of land in Scotland.
David fitz Walter was the son of Walter fitz Gilbert of Cadzow. He became the Baron of Cadzow after his father, sometime before 1346. Around this time, he was captured during a big battle called the Battle of Neville's Cross. He was considered a very important prisoner. So important, in fact, that he was held by William Zouche, the Archbishop of York, and could only be released if Edward III of England gave the order. It is believed he was made a knight (a warrior with special honors) before this battle.
Important Events in David fitz Walter's Life
The records show David fitz Walter doing important things. In 1361, he gave money and land to Glasgow Cathedral to support a Chaplainry. This meant he helped pay for a priest to pray for his family.
In 1368, King David II of Scotland officially confirmed that David fitz Walter owned his family lands in Cadzow. The King also added more lands and people to his control, including the area of Eddlewood.
Taking Part in Parliament
David fitz Walter was also involved in the Parliament of Scotland, which was like the country's main council or government. He attended meetings in 1371 and 1373. The meeting in 1373 was very important because it confirmed that John Stewart, Earl of Carrick, and his children would be the next kings of Scotland.
A special document, called a charter, from this time still exists in New Register House in Edinburgh. It has David fitz Walter's personal wax seal attached to it. This seal shows three five-leaf shapes, called cinquefoils, which were a symbol for the Hamilton family. The seal also has a Latin message that says: Sigill David filii Walter, which means "The Seal of David, son of Walter."
Family Life
We don't know the exact name of David fitz Walter's wife. Many sources suggest she was Margaret Leslie, the daughter of Walter Leslie and Euphemia of Ross. Together, they had at least five children:
- David Hamilton of Cadzow
- John Hamilton of Fingaltoun
- Walter Hamilton – who became an ancestor of other Hamilton families
- Alan Hamilton of Larbert
- An unknown daughter – who married Simon Roberton of Earnock
