James Hamilton of Cadzow facts for kids

Sir James Hamilton of Cadzow was an important Scottish nobleman who lived a long time ago, from before 1397 until around 1440. He was known as the 5th Laird of Cadzow, which meant he was the main owner of a large area of land called Cadzow. He also became a "royal hostage" for a short time, which was a way to guarantee agreements back then.

Sir James Hamilton's Life Story

James Hamilton was the son of Sir John Hamilton of Cadzow and Jacoba Douglas. We first hear about him in 1397. At that time, his father gave him some land and special rights in a place called Kinneil. This was part of an agreement related to his marriage.

Later, James Hamilton received a special pass from the King of England, Henry V. This pass, called a "safe-conduct," allowed him to travel safely to Calthorpe Castle in England.

In 1424, something very important happened. James Hamilton was one of the Scottish lords allowed to visit King James I of Scotland in Durham. The King was being held captive in England at the time.

That same year, after King James I was freed, James Hamilton became one of many Scottish nobles given to the English. They were held as "hostages" to make sure the King's ransom (a large payment for his freedom) would be paid. James Hamilton's property was valued at 500 merks.

James Hamilton was held first at Fotheringay Castle and then at Dover Castle. It seems he was released by 1426. He was made a knight before 1430. Sir James Hamilton died by 1441, because his son was then known as the Lord of Cadzow.

Sir James Hamilton's Family

James Hamilton married Janet Livingston before 1422. He received land in a place called Schawis from his father-in-law, Sir Alexander Livingston of Callendar. James and Janet had six children:

• James Hamilton, 6th Laird of Cadzow - he later became a Lord of Parliament as the 1st Lord Hamilton.
• Alexander Hamilton - he was an ancestor of the Hamiltons of Silvertonhill family.
• John Hamilton
• Gavin Hamilton - he was an ancestor of the Hamiltons of Dalzell family.
• Agnes Hamilton - she married Sir James Hamilton of Preston.
• Elizabeth Hamilton - she married Chalmers of Gadgirth.