George Ogilvy, 1st Lord Banff facts for kids

George Ogilvy, 1st Lord Banff (born around c. 1587 – died August 11, 1663) was a Scottish army officer who was very loyal to the King. He lived during a time when Scotland was facing big changes and disagreements.

Early Life

Growing Up and Family

George Ogilvy was the oldest son of Sir Walter Ogilvy of Banff and Dunlugas. His mother was Helen Urquhart. In 1611, he received land titles for the area of Dunlugas, and later for Inschedour in 1628. His family's main home was Inchdrewer Castle.

In 1627, he was given the special title of a baronet of Nova Scotia. This was a title of honor given by the King.

Early Challenges

In 1630, George Ogilvy helped a man named Gordon of Rothiemay in a disagreement with James Crichton of Frendraught. Later, in 1634, Ogilvy helped Gordon's sons by sending them to a safe place.

Supporting the King

Standing Against the Covenanters

George Ogilvy strongly supported King Charles I. At this time, many people in Scotland, known as the Covenanters, disagreed with the King's religious policies.

In 1639, Ogilvy told the Marquis of Huntly about a meeting the Covenanters were planning. He also convinced the Viscount Aboyne not to join the Covenanters. Ogilvy remained loyal to the King and kept his forces ready for defense.

The Trot of Turriff

In May 1639, Ogilvy learned that the Covenanters were planning another meeting in a place called Turriff. He suggested they attack them. Along with Sir John Gordon, he led the King's supporters. On May 13, they surprised the Covenanters and defeated them. This event became known as the Trot of Turriff.

A few days later, on May 15, Ogilvy and other leaders entered New Aberdeen with about 800 horsemen and took control of the town. The Covenanters left. On May 22, Ogilvy's group marched towards Strathbogie. They then crossed the River Spey and stood ready for battle near Elgin. However, both sides decided to talk and agreed to put down their weapons.

Royalist Actions and Rewards

Later in May 1639, Ogilvy tried to sail south to meet the King. But he met another ship carrying royalists returning north and turned back. He landed in Aberdeen on June 6. At this time, the King's supporters in the north had a chance to get back at the Covenanters. Ogilvy joined others in damaging the lands of the Earl Marischal, who supported the Covenanters.

Around September 1639, Ogilvy finally went south to meet the King. While he was away, Covenanter forces under General Robert Monro attacked and looted his homes in Banff and Inschedour. To make up for this loss, King Charles I gave him 6,000 Scots merks in gold in 1641.

As a further reward for his loyalty, King Charles I gave George Ogilvy a new title. On August 31, 1642, he was made a Scottish peer, becoming the first Lord Banff.

Later Life

Lord Banff passed away on August 11, 1663.

Family

George Ogilvy had a daughter named Helen with his first wife, Margaret Irvine. Helen married James Ogilvy, 2nd Earl of Airlie. With his second wife, Janet Sutherland, he had a son named George, who became the second Lord Banff, and two daughters.