Janet Kennedy facts for kids
Janet Kennedy (around 1480 – around 1545) was a Scottish noblewoman. She was known for her close relationship with King James IV of Scotland and was the mother of several of his children.
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Janet Kennedy's Family Background
Janet Kennedy was the oldest daughter of John Kennedy, 2nd Lord Kennedy and Lady Elizabeth Gordon. Her father's family had royal connections, as he was a descendant of King Robert III. Her mother was the daughter of Alexander Gordon, 1st Earl of Huntly, making Janet part of important Scottish noble families.
Early Relationships and Children
Around 1493, Janet is thought to have married Alexander Gordon of Lochinvar. They might have had a daughter together.
Later, around 1497, Janet had a relationship with Archibald Douglas, 5th Earl of Angus, who was also known as "Bell the Cat." They had a daughter named Mary.
Life with King James IV
Janet Kennedy became a close companion of King James IV around 1497. Their relationship was one of the longest the King had. They had three children together:
- James Stewart, 1st Earl of Moray
- Margaret Stewart
- Jane Stewart
Janet and her children with the King lived for a while at Stirling Castle. The King made sure her household was well looked after.
Royal Gifts and Homes
King James IV showed his affection for Janet through various gifts and land grants.
- In September 1498, he gave her control over Bothwell Castle.
- In March 1500, the King gave her large areas of land in Menteith and the responsibility of looking after Doune Castle. He did this because of the "heartfelt love and strong favor he has and bears to her."
Even after King James IV married Margaret Tudor in 1503, his relationship with Janet continued. They met at Bothwell Castle in April 1503, and Janet was later moved to Darnaway Castle just before the Queen arrived in Scotland.
Later Life and Family
Janet Kennedy also had relationships with other men. In 1505, she married John Ramsay, 1st Lord Bothwell. Sadly, two of the men she was involved with died at the Battle of Flodden in 1513.
Her daughter, Margaret Stewart, who was the King's child, came to the royal court from Darnaway in April 1513.
