James Cunningham, 14th Earl of Glencairn facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
James Cunningham
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| Born | 1 June 1749 |
| Died | 30 January 1791 (aged 41) |
| Title | 14th Earl of Glencairn |
| Known for | patron of Robert Burns |
| Nationality | Scottish |
James Cunningham, 14th Earl of Glencairn (born June 1, 1749 – died January 30, 1791) was a Scottish nobleman and soldier. He is well-known for being a supporter and friend of the famous poet Robert Burns.
Contents
The Life of James Cunningham
Early Life and Family
James Cunningham was born in Kilmacolm, Scotland. He was the second son of William, the 13th Earl of Glencairn. An "Earl" is a high-ranking nobleman in the United Kingdom.
When his older brother William passed away in 1768, James became known as Lord Kilmaurs. He then became the 14th Earl of Glencairn in 1775. This happened while he was traveling in Norway, Lapland, and Sweden.
A Soldier and Public Servant
From 1778, James was a Captain in the Western Fencibles Regiment. Fencibles were special military units raised for defense within Britain.
He also served as one of the 16 representative peers from 1780 to 1784. This meant he was chosen to represent the Scottish nobility in the British Parliament. In 1786, he sold his family's old estate in Kilmaurs. The Cunningham family had moved their main home to Finlaystone much earlier.
Friend of Robert Burns
James Cunningham is most remembered for his friendship with the poet Robert Burns. James was a "patron" to Burns. This means he supported Burns financially and helped him in his career.
He played a very important role in getting the second edition of Burns's book of Poems published.
His Legacy
James Cunningham never married. He passed away from an illness in Falmouth, England. He had just arrived there after spending the winter in Lisbon, Portugal, for its warmer weather. He was buried in the Church of King Charles the Martyr in Falmouth.
After James's death, Robert Burns wrote a sad poem called a "Lament" for him. The poem shows how much Burns appreciated James's help and friendship. It includes the lines: "But I'll remember thee, Glencairn, and a' that thou hast done for me."
James's brother, John, became the next Earl of Glencairn. James is honored with a special plaque in his family's burial place in Kilmaurs, Scotland.
See also
- Lambroughton
