George Lauder of the Bass facts for kids
Sir George Lauder of the Bass, Knight (died 27 June 1611, on the Bass Rock), was an important Scottish figure. He was a church leader, a trusted advisor to the King (a Privy Counsellor), and a member of the Scottish Parliament. He even helped teach Prince Henry, the King's son.
Contents
Sir George Lauder's Early Life
His Family Background
George Lauder was born into an important family. His father was Robert Lauder of the Bass. George was the fourth child of Robert and his first wife, Margaret Sinclair. We first hear about George in 1542.
Becoming a Churchman
George Lauder chose to join the Church. He was known as Master George Lauder, Rector of Auldcathie in West Lothian.
In 1561, George became the Rector and Vicar of Auchindoir. He took over this role from his uncle, Master John Sinclair. This was an important position in the Church at that time.
Taking Over the Bass Estate
George's three older brothers all passed away before him. This meant that George became the laird, or owner, of the Bass estate.
In 1580, official documents confirmed that George Lauder inherited lands in Berwickshire and East Lothian from his brother, James Lauder of Bass. James had also been a church leader. Sadly, James was murdered by a cousin. George Lauder was given the right to take the property of Walter Lauder, who was later executed for this crime.
More land documents followed. In 1583, George inherited more lands in Fife, North Berwick, and Tyninghame. He also inherited the Temple-land of Innerwick in East Lothian from his brother James. By 1590, he was listed as one major landowner in East Lothian.
Sir George Lauder's Public Service
Royal Connections
King James VI of Scotland visited the Bass Rock in 1581. He loved the island so much that he wanted to buy it! However, George Lauder did not want to sell. The King respected George's decision.
George was a close advisor to King James VI. He was called the King's "familiar councillor." He also helped educate the young Prince Henry, the King's son.
In 1587, George Lauder and other important figures agreed to help pay for expenses to support Mary, Queen of Scots during her difficult time at Fotheringay Castle.
In 1588, the Privy Council of Scotland asked George Lauder to collect a tax from landowners in Haddingtonshire. This money was used to help repair Edinburgh Castle.
George Lauder was knighted on 17 May 1590. This happened during the celebration of the coronation of Anne of Denmark, the King's wife.
Role in Parliament and Council
George Lauder was an active member of Scottish public life. In 1589, he was appointed a Commissioner for Parliament.
In 1592, George Lauder of the Bass became a member of the newly formed Privy Council of Scotland. This council advised the King. He attended many meetings and helped make important decisions. For example, he helped declare some people as rebels for their involvement in a plot against the King at Falkland Palace.
George Lauder was a minor baron in Parliament in 1592. He also helped lead Parliament meetings in 1593, 1594, 1597, 1598, 1599, and 1605. He was involved in many important tasks, such as:
- Being on the Privy Council in 1592 and 1593.
- Serving as a commissioner to punish people who harmed birds on the Bass Rock.
- Having his ownership of the Tyninghame lands and the right to make the town a free burgh confirmed in 1593.
- Attending various conventions and parliaments.
- Serving as a commissioner on petitions, meal, and coin issues.
In 1599, Sir George Lauder of Bass was present at a special meeting of the Convention of the Estates at Holyroodhouse.
Sir George Lauder's Marriage
In 1589, George Lauder prepared for his marriage to Isobel Hepburn. She was the eldest daughter of Sir Patrick Hepburn of Waughton. For their marriage, George received the lands and lordship of Poppil and Wester Spott.
An old letter from 1590 mentions that the wedding of the Laird of Bass was well-attended in Fife. Important people like the Duke of Lennox and Francis Stewart, 1st Earl of Bothwell were there.
Sir George Lauder's Death
Sir George Lauder of the Bass passed away on 27 June 1611, on the Bass Rock. His will was officially recorded on 18 February 1612. His wife, Isobel Hepburn, and his only son, George Lauder, were named as executors. The total value of his goods was a large sum of money for that time.
His son, George Lauder, became the next laird of the Bass. However, in 1626, after nearly 600 years, the Lauder family gave up their ownership of the Bass Rock.
Sir George Lauder's Seal
Sir George Lauder had a special seal. It showed a "griffin segreant" (a griffin standing on one leg with wings spread) inside a "royal tressure" (a border often seen in royal coats of arms). This seal was used on official documents, like a charter from 1603.
