James Stuart, 3rd Earl of Moray facts for kids
James Stuart, 3rd Earl of Moray (born in 1581 – died 6 August 1638) was an important Scottish nobleman. He was the son of James Stewart, 2nd Earl of Moray and Elizabeth Stuart. He inherited his father's title and lands, becoming the Earl of Moray.
Early Life and Challenges
When James was about 11 years old, his father passed away. The King, James VI, made sure that young James and his mother were protected from any legal issues for a couple of years. The King also officially confirmed James's right to inherit the Lordship of Doune from his grandfather, James Stewart, 1st Lord Doune.
In 1595, James planned to travel outside Scotland and even got a special passport. However, he later decided not to go and stayed at Doune Castle.
Later, in 1598, James was asked to arrange for his father's burial, as his father's body had not yet been laid to rest. Even though he was still young, he faced some legal trouble in 1601 for not appearing before the Privy Council, which was a group of royal advisors.
There was a long-standing disagreement between the Moray family and another powerful family, the Gordons, led by the Marquess of Huntly. King James wanted to end this feud because it was causing problems in Scotland. So, in 1603, the King helped the two families try to make peace. In 1604, the King made a final decision to settle their arguments.
To make sure James's right to his family's titles and lands was completely clear, the Scottish Parliament officially confirmed his inheritance in 1607. This was especially important for the titles passed down from his famous grandfather, James Stewart, 1st Earl of Moray. This confirmation also helped ensure that James's own children would inherit these titles after him.
Later Years and Family
To further heal the feud between the Stewart and Gordon families, King James arranged for James Stuart to marry Lady Anne Gordon. She was the daughter of George Gordon, 1st Marquess of Huntly. They were married on 2 October 1607.
In 1618, a famous English writer named John Taylor, also known as the "London Water Poet," visited James and his wife at Darnaway Castle. Taylor stayed there for four days during his trip through Scotland. James Stuart was also responsible for finishing the building of Castle Stuart, which is located near the Moray Firth.
James Stuart, 3rd Earl of Moray, passed away on 6 August 1638, at Darnaway Castle. He was buried without a lot of grand ceremonies.
Children
James and his wife, Anne Gordon, had two sons and one daughter:
- James Stuart, 4th Earl of Moray: He became the next Earl of Moray after his father's death in 1638.
- Mary or Margaret Stuart: She married James Grant, 7th of Freuchie in 1640 and had children.
- George Stuart: He never married and passed away.
