Fraser of Muchalls facts for kids
The Frasers of Muchalls were an important branch of the Fraser family in Scotland. They were also known as the Frasers of Muchal-in-Mar. This family played a part in Scottish history, especially in the Aberdeenshire area. They owned land and built impressive castles.
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The Frasers of Muchalls: A Scottish Family
The Frasers of Muchalls were a powerful Scottish family. They were part of the larger Clan Fraser. Their story involves trading land and building strongholds. These castles still stand today.
How the Frasers Got Their Land
The story of the Frasers of Muchalls began in 1366. A man named Thomas Fraser made an important land exchange. He was a descendant of Sir Alexander Fraser of Cornton. Thomas traded lands in Petyndreich, Stirlingshire. In return, he received lands in Kinmundy, Aberdeenshire.
Later, Thomas's grandson, also named Thomas, made another trade. He exchanged the estate of Cornton for Stonywood and Muchalls. These new lands were also in Aberdeenshire. This is how the family came to own the land where Muchalls Castle stands.
Building Grand Castles
The Frasers were known for building strong and beautiful castles. Two of their most famous castles are Muchalls Castle and Castle Fraser.
Muchalls Castle's Story
It is believed that Thomas Fraser built the first part of Muchalls Castle. This was a strong towerhouse overlooking the North Sea. A towerhouse was a tall, fortified home. Later, in 1617, the Burnetts of Leys expanded the castle. They added more parts to it, making it much larger.
Castle Fraser's History
Another important Fraser family member was Andrew Fraser. He was given the title Lord Fraser in 1633. Andrew Fraser finished building Castle Fraser in 1636. This grand castle is near Inverurie, Aberdeenshire. It is a wonderful example of Scottish castle architecture.
The End of a Lordship
The title of Lord Fraser ended in 1716. This happened after the early death of Charles, the 4th Lord Fraser. Charles was a Jacobite. This meant he supported the old royal family of Scotland. He was trying to avoid capture by government soldiers. Sadly, he passed away in an accident near the cliffs at Pennan, close to Peterhead. After his death, the title of Lord Fraser was no longer used.
Castle Fraser Today
Today, Castle Fraser is a popular historical site. Since 1976, the National Trust for Scotland has cared for it. This organization helps protect important historical places. Visitors can explore the castle and learn about its long history.
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