Duncan Campbell of Glenorchy facts for kids

Duncan Campbell of Glenorchy, 1619, National Galleries Scotland

Sir Duncan Campbell, 1st Baronet of Glenorchy (1545-1631) was an important Scottish landowner. He was also a friend of Queen Anne of Denmark. His family later became the Earls of Breadalbane and Holland.

Becoming a Powerful Leader

Duncan Campbell was born in 1545 at Balloch. This place is now known as Taymouth Castle. His father was Colin Campbell of Glenorchy. His mother was Katherine Ruthven. Her family owned Dirleton Castle.

Duncan became the 7th Laird of Glenorchy. He was very clever and strong-willed. People called him "Black Duncan" because of his smart dealings. He helped his family become very important in Scotland. He was made a knight in 1590. This happened when Anne of Denmark was crowned Queen.

King James VI invited Duncan to a special party. It was for the baptism of his son, Prince Henry, in 1594. The King even asked Duncan to bring deer meat and wild birds!

In September 1590, Duncan hosted some important guests. These included John Murray at his home, Balloch.

Building Castles and Royal Connections

Duncan Campbell of Glenorchy, 1601, National Galleries Scotland

Duncan Campbell was also known as "Black Duncan of the Seven Castles." He helped build parts of Kilchurn Castle. He also started building Finlarig Castle near Loch Tay. He worked hard to improve the farmland around these castles.

In 1607, Queen Anne sent him a special gift. It was a gold jewel with many diamonds and rubies. She also sent him a ring with diamonds. Duncan stayed in touch with the Queen. His cousin, Jean Drummond, was one of her ladies-in-waiting.

In 1609, Duncan sent eagles to Prince Henry in London. In return, the Prince sent him a horse.

Duncan was given a special title in 1625. It was a 'baronetcy' linked to Nova Scotia. He passed away in 1631. He was buried at Finlarig.

Family Life

Duncan Campbell married Jane Stewart in 1574. She was the daughter of John Stewart, 4th Earl of Atholl. They had several children:

• Sir Colin Campbell, 2nd Baronet
• Sir Robert Campbell, 3rd Baronet (whose son became the 1st Earl of Breadalbane)
• Jean Campbell, who married John Campbell of Cawdor
• Margaret Campbell, who married Alexander Menzies

After Jane passed away, Duncan married Elizabeth Sinclair in 1597. His third wife was Janet Burdon.

His Portraits

Two paintings show Duncan Campbell. One is from 1601. It looks a bit like the work of a court painter named Adrian Vanson. The second painting is from 1619. It shows him at 65 years old. This painting might have been done by a "German painter" who worked for his family.