Henry Kinghorn facts for kids
Henry Kinghorn was an important Scottish clergyman and a trusted helper to the royal family. He worked closely with Mary of Guelders, who was the wife of James II of Scotland. He also managed money as a Chamberlain in different areas like Garioch and Brechin.
Most of what we know about Henry Kinghorn comes from old records. These records are called the Exchequer Rolls of Scotland. They kept track of the royal family's income and spending. Today, these important papers are kept at the National Records of Scotland.
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Henry Kinghorn: A Royal Helper
What Was a Royal Steward?
Henry Kinghorn held several important jobs for the Scottish royal family. He was a "steward" or "seneschal" for Queen Mary. This meant he helped manage her household and affairs. He also worked as a "Chamberlain." This job involved looking after the royal finances in specific regions.
Working for Queen Mary
In 1461, after King James II died, Henry Kinghorn stayed at Ravenscraig Castle in Fife. He spent 25 days there with other royal staff. Queen Mary of Guelders was continuing building projects at the castle.
Kinghorn was also in charge of building work at Falkland Palace in 1461. This included many different projects. He oversaw the building of a new stairway from the queen's room. This stairway led to a pleasant outdoor area. New stables were also built, along with a shed for coal.
Repairs were made, and the counting house was extended. He even made special metal stands, called andirons or firedogs, for the queen's bedroom fireplace. A new firegrate was also made for the great hall. Other works included building two ponds in the hay yard. The main carpenter for these projects was Andrew Lesouris.
Another steward, William Blair, finished these works in 1462. During this time, a "galry" was built. This seems to be the first time the French word "gallery" was used in Britain.
Castle Keeper for James III
In 1463, Kinghorn paid John Halkerston, a master of works. This payment was for Halkerston's building accounts at Trinity College Kirk in Edinburgh.
Later, in 1468, Henry Kinghorn became the keeper of Kildrummy Castle for James III of Scotland. He spent £100 Scots on building and repairs at the castle. In 1471, he spent another £80 on fixing up the castle.
