Gilbert I, Prior of St Andrews facts for kids

Gilbert was an important church leader in Scotland during the 1100s. He was an Augustinian canon, which means he was a member of a religious group called the Augustinians. These groups followed strict rules and often lived together in priories or monasteries. Gilbert might have come from an Anglo-Norman family, which were people of Norman descent who settled in England after the Norman Conquest.

Who Was Gilbert?

Gilbert lived in the 12th century, a long time ago! He was a dedicated member of the Augustinian order. These orders were very important in medieval times. They helped spread education and religious teachings. Gilbert spent his life serving the church in Scotland.

Becoming a Prior

Gilbert was a canon at the St Andrews Cathedral Priory. This was a large and important religious building in St Andrews, Scotland. In either 1196 or 1197, Gilbert became the prior of St Andrews. A prior was like the head of a priory, similar to a principal leading a school. He was in charge of all the canons and the daily activities of the priory.

He took over from Prior Walter, who had to step down because he was not well. This shows that Gilbert was a trusted and respected leader among his fellow canons.

His Time as Prior

Gilbert served as prior for about two years. A writer named Walter Bower recorded this in his book, the Scotichronicon. This book is a very old history of Scotland. Walter Bower wrote that Gilbert's time as prior was very "busy." This means Gilbert worked hard and was active in his role.

He managed the priory and its lands. He also guided the other canons. Being a prior was a big responsibility. It involved both spiritual leadership and managing the priory's everyday life.

The End of His Service

Gilbert became ill while he was at the priory's manor in Clackmannan. This was one of the estates owned by the priory. He sadly passed away there soon after. His death likely happened in late 1198 or early 1199.

After Gilbert's death, Prior Walter returned to his old job as prior. However, Walter himself died within a year. Gilbert's time as prior was during the period when Roger de Beaumont was the bishop.