Hector Munro, 17th Baron of Foulis facts for kids
Hector Munro, 17th Baron of Foulis (died 1603), also known as the master of Foulis, was a Scottish chief of the Highland Scottish clan, Clan Munro. He was the 10th chief of Clan Munro who can be proven by records from his time. He lived at Foulis Castle.
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Early Life and Becoming Chief
Hector Munro was the second son of Robert Mor Munro, 15th Baron of Foulis. He became his father's heir after his older brother, Robert Munro, 16th Baron, passed away in 1589. This happened just eight months after their father died.
Since Hector was not the oldest son, he first studied for the church. In 1560, Mary, Queen of Scots gave him his first church role as the Chaplain of Newmore. Hector's father, Robert Mor Munro, was a strong supporter of Queen Mary.
Later, in 1583, King James VI of Scotland appointed Hector to other church positions, including the Chaplainry of Obsdale and the Deanery of Ross. However, when his older brother died, Hector gave up all his church roles. He then became the chief of Clan Munro.
In 1590, Hector officially inherited many lands from his father and brother. These included the areas of Easter and Wester Foulis, along with the "barony" of Foulis. He also gained control of other lands and salmon fishing rights in different parts of Scotland.
Accusations and Trials
Hector Munro's mother was Margaret Ogilvie. After her death, his father married Katherine Ross, who became Hector's stepmother. Some people at the time believed Katherine Ross was involved in serious crimes, including witchcraft.
There were accusations that she had used witches and sorcerers. Some even thought she had involved Hector in these activities. Shortly after Hector's father died in 1588, both Katherine and Hector faced separate trials for witchcraft and trying to commit murder.
However, two local juries found both of them not guilty of all the charges. This happened even though there was some evidence presented. The accusations against Katherine Ross were said to have taken place between 1576 and 1577. Some of the people accused of witchcraft were caught and tried.
Later Life and Royal Favor
On March 9, 1593, Hector Munro, 17th Baron of Foulis, was given an important task. He was asked to help arrest several powerful people, including George Gordon, 6th Earl of Huntly. These individuals were accused of working against the country's main religion. Hector was also asked to help find those responsible for the burning of Donibristle and the murder of James Stewart, 2nd Earl of Moray.
Hector Munro was well-liked by King James VI of Scotland. The King even called him his "richt trustie friend the laird of Fowles" in a letter. In this letter, the King praised Hector's loyalty and faithful service. He also specifically asked Hector to keep his men in good order, which helped maintain peace in the country.
The Battle of Logiebride happened on February 4, 1597, during Hector Munro's time as chief. This battle was fought between the Bains and some Munros against the MacLeods and Mackenzies. While some Clan Munro members were involved, Hector Munro himself did not take part in the fight.
In 1602, the Privy Council of Scotland ordered Hector Munro and other Highland chiefs to gather their followers. They had to hold a "wapinshaw," which was a display of weapons and readiness, on March 10. They also had to list the names of everyone who attended and describe their weapons. Hector Munro was also asked to provide one hundred men to help Queen Elizabeth I of England. These men were to assist in stopping a rebellion by her Irish subjects.
Family
Hector Munro, 17th Baron of Foulis, first married Hon. Anne, or Agnes Fraser. She was the daughter of Hugh Fraser, 5th Lord Lovat, who was the chief of Clan Fraser of Lovat. They had three children:
- Robert Munro, 18th Baron of Foulis (who was known as the Black Baron).
- Sir Hector Munro, 1st Baronet of Foulis (who became chief after his older brother).
- Margaret Munro (who married Alexander Mackenzie).
Hector Munro later married Janet Munro, a distant relative. She was the daughter of Andrew Munro, 5th of Milntown. They did not have any children together.
Hector Munro passed away on November 14, 1603. He was buried with his father and older brother at Kiltearn. His oldest son then became the next chief.
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