John Graham, 3rd Earl of Montrose facts for kids
John Graham, 3rd Earl of Montrose (1548 – 9 November 1608) was an important Scottish nobleman. He held several key positions during his life. He served as the Chancellor of the University of St Andrews from 1599 to 1604. He was also the Lord High Commissioner to the Parliament of Scotland, acting as the King's representative in the Scottish Parliament, from 1605 to 1606.
Contents
Family Life and Early Years
John Graham was the son of Robert Graham, who was known as the Master of Graham. His mother was Margaret Fleming. Sadly, his father passed away in a battle called the Battle of Pinkie Cleugh in 1547, before John was born.
His grandmother on his mother's side was Janet Fleming. She was a daughter of James IV of Scotland, making John Graham a descendant of Scottish royalty.
A Look at His Career
People who knew John Graham described him as a polite and peaceful person. Even though he wasn't the most powerful Earl, he was known for being calm and quiet.
In 1584, Montrose was at Falkland Palace, a royal residence. He often helped his friends with legal matters, showing his influence and connections.
He was known to support the Earl of Huntly. He was involved in the political events surrounding the death of the Earl of Moray.
The Graham family had a long-standing disagreement, or feud, with Sir John Sandilands. Montrose and Sandilands even had two fights. However, in November 1599, King James VI stepped in and helped them make peace.
In 1599, Montrose became the Chancellor of Scotland. This was a very high-ranking job in the government. While he was at Holyrood Palace speaking with Anne of Denmark, the Queen, an ordinary citizen named James Forman interrupted them. Forman complained about taxes and government policies, showing that Montrose was involved in the daily challenges of ruling.
Helping Queen Anne of Denmark
After James VI became King of England in 1603, he moved there, uniting the crowns of Scotland and England. Queen Anne of Denmark, his wife, wanted to bring their son, Prince Henry, from Stirling Castle. She went to Stirling without official permission.
During discussions at the castle, the Queen had a miscarriage. Montrose was very worried about the ongoing political arguments this situation caused. He wrote to King James VI to explain what happened. He assured the King that the Queen's companions at Stirling had not intended to take Prince Henry away from the care of the Earl of Mar without permission. They simply wanted to accompany the Queen as she had asked.
Montrose continued to help smooth things over. He even arranged and paid for lodging in Edinburgh for some English ladies who came to meet Queen Anne. This included Lucy Russell, Countess of Bedford.
Family and Children
John Graham married Jean Drummond. She was the daughter of David, Lord Drummond. Together, they had several children:
- John Graham, 4th Earl of Montrose
- William Graham of Braco
- Robert Graham of Scotston
- Lilias Graham, who married John Fleming, 1st Earl of Wigtown
