James Douglas, 1st Lord Dalkeith facts for kids
James Douglas, 1st Lord Dalkeith (born after 1372 – died before May 22, 1441) was an important Scottish nobleman. He was born in Dalkeith, Midlothian, Scotland. His parents were Sir James Douglas and Agnes Dunbar. His father, Sir James, was the brother of Nicholas Douglas, 1st Lord of Mains.
Early Life and Family Roots
James Douglas came from a long line of Scottish nobles. His family's story goes back to Andrew Douglas of Hermiston. Andrew was followed by his son, William Douglas of Hermiston. William was one of the people who signed the Ragman Roll in 1296. This was a document where Scottish nobles pledged loyalty to the King of England.
William's son, James Douglas of Lothian, had two sons: Sir William Douglas and Sir John Douglas. Sir William Douglas was a very famous knight. He was known as the Knight of Liddesdale or the Flower of Chivalry.
How He Gained His Lands
Sir William Douglas, the Knight of Liddesdale, received important lands. These included the barony of Dalkeith in 1341 and the barony of Aberdour in 1342. A barony was a large area of land controlled by a lord.
Sadly, Sir William of Liddesdale died. After his death, his lands passed to his nephew, James Douglas. This was confirmed by the Earl of Douglas before 1370.
In 1386, the lands of Dalkeith and Aberdour were officially joined together. The main home for the family was Dalkeith Castle. They also had another home at Aberdour Castle in Fife.
Marriages and Children
James Douglas, 1st Lord Dalkeith, married Elizabeth Stewart around 1387. Elizabeth was a princess, the daughter of King Robert III of Scotland.
They had five children together:
- William
- James
- Henry
- Janet (who married John Hamilton of Cadzow)
- Margaret
After Elizabeth passed away, James married a second time. His second wife was Janet Borthwick, daughter of Sir William Borthwick. They had one son named William.
