James Fraser of Castle Leathers facts for kids

Major James Fraser of Castle Leathers (1670 – 1760) was a Scottish soldier. He supported the British-Hanoverian Government during the Jacobite risings in the 1700s. He was an important member of the Clan Fraser of Lovat, a famous clan from the Scottish Highlands. Major Fraser was also known for his disagreements with his clan chief, Simon Fraser, 11th Lord Lovat. Lord Lovat often changed which side he supported during the Jacobite risings.

Who Was Major James Fraser?

Early Life and Family

James Fraser was born in 1670. His father was Malcolm Fraser, 3rd of Culduthel. His mother was Anna Ballie. James was a direct descendant of Hugh Fraser, 1st Lord Lovat, who was an early chief of the Clan Fraser of Lovat.

A Soldier in Tough Times

The 1700s in Scotland saw many conflicts called the Jacobite risings. These were attempts to bring the old royal family, the Stuarts, back to the throne. Major James Fraser was a loyal supporter of the British-Hanoverian Government.

Helping His Clan Chief

In 1714, the main leaders of the Clan Fraser of Lovat chose James Fraser for an important mission. They sent him to France to convince their clan chief, Simon Fraser, 11th Lord Lovat, to come home. Lord Lovat needed to take back his family's lands. James Fraser succeeded in this mission.

When Lord Lovat returned from France in 1715, James Fraser became a Major in Lord Lovat’s Battalion. This group worked for the Government. Major Fraser received his rank from Brigadier-General Sir Alexander Grant, who was the Lord-Lieutenant of Inverness-shire. It seems he did not serve in the regular army.

Giving Up Weapons

After the Disarming Act of 1716, people in the Highlands had to give up their weapons. Major James Fraser of Castle Leathers handed over 36 guns, 30 swords, and one pair of pistols. Even though they worked together, James Fraser and Simon Fraser, Lord Lovat, often had very serious disagreements.

His Published Adventures

Major James Fraser of Castle Leathers wrote down his life story. His memoirs were published in 1889. The book was called Major Fraser's Manuscript, His Adventures in Scotland and England, his Mission in France in search of his Chief, his services in the Rebellion and his Quarrels with Simon Fraser, Lord Lovat 1696-1737. It tells about his exciting life and challenges.

His Portrait and Clan Tartan

A portrait of Major James Fraser of Castle Leathers was painted around 1720 by John Vanderbank. You can see this painting on the National Galleries of Scotland website. A tartan pattern was created based on the one shown in his portrait. This tartan is now officially recognized by the Scottish Register of Tartans.

Where Was Castle Leathers?

James Fraser's home was known by several names, including Castle Leathers and Castle Heather. This castle was located near the town of Inverness, which is now a city.

His Family and Legacy

Major James Fraser of Castle Leathers married Jean or Janet Dunbar. She was the daughter of Sir Robert Dunbar of Grange Hill. They had several children.

Their sons included:

• Robert Fraser, who became the heir of Castle Leathers.
• James Fraser of Mavisbank House. He had four sons, but only one, Simon Fraser, survived him. Simon Fraser became a Lieutenant-Colonel in the East India Company.

Major James Fraser also had several daughters. In total, he had eleven children. He passed away at Inshoch Castle in 1760, at the age of 90.