Fergus, Earl of Buchan facts for kids

Fergus of Buchan was an important leader in old Scotland. He was the last native Gaelic Mormaer (a powerful ruler, like an earl) of a place called Buchan. He was only the third Mormaer of Buchan whose name we know.

Who Was Fergus of Buchan?

Fergus was a local ruler from the Gaelic people in Scotland. He was very important because his rule marked a big change for Buchan. After him, the leadership of Buchan passed to a different family.

His Family and Connections

Fergus might have had strong family ties to a region called Fife. It's possible his father, Colbán, was from Fife too. Fergus also had connections to a powerful family known as the House of Comyn.

What Was a Charter?

Fergus signed an important legal paper called a charter. This charter was a special document that gave land to someone who would then serve him. Some people who witnessed this charter had French names. This might have been because of his connections to the Comyn family, who had French roots.

The End of His Rule

Fergus did not have any sons to take over his role. So, he married his only daughter, Marjory, to a powerful man named William Comyn. This marriage meant that the Gaelic family's control of Buchan came to an end.

When Fergus died, Buchan became the first area ruled by a native Gaelic Mormaer to be taken over by a family from outside that specific Gaelic lineage. He passed away sometime before the year 1214.

See Also

• Earl of Buchan