John Grant of Freuchie (died 1585) facts for kids
John Grant of Freuchie was an important Scottish landowner. He lived in the 1500s. His family home was Freuchie. This place is now known as Castle Grant.
John Grant's Life and Home
John Grant became the head of his family's estates in 1553. His father was James Grant of Freuchie. His mother was Elizabeth Forbes. John Grant lived at Freuchie, which was also called Ballachastel. It is now known as Castle Grant. People say he once jousted, or fought with lances, against Lord Lovat. This happened at Inverness Castle. John Grant lost this friendly competition.
As the Laird of Grant, he owned lands like Urquhart and Glenmoriston. From these lands, he had to pay a special rent called a "feu-duty." This payment helped cover the costs for the Scottish royal family. In 1569, Regent Moray asked John Grant to send money to William Douglas. This money helped pay for Queen Mary's care. She was staying at Lochleven Castle at that time.
John Grant died in 1585. He was buried at Duthil Old Parish Church and Churchyard.
John Grant's Family
John Grant married twice. His first wife was Margaret Stewart. She passed away in 1555. His second wife was Janet Leslie. She was the daughter of George Leslie, 4th Earl of Rothes.
John Grant had several children:
- Duncan Grant (1566-1582) was his oldest son. Duncan married Margaret Mackintosh. Their son, John Grant, later became the Laird of Freuchie.
- Patrick Grant of Rothiemurchus.
- Elizabeth, also known as Elspeth or Isobel. She married William Cuming of Inverallochy.
- Grissel Grant, who married Patrick Grant.
- Margaret Grant, who married Alexander Gordon of Beldornie.
- Katherine Grant.
- Marjory Grant.
- Barbara Grant, who married Colin Mackenzie of Kintail.
- Helen Grant.
After John Grant died in 1585, his wife Janet Leslie gave some items to his grandson, John Grant. These items included a gold chain and gold bracelets. She also gave a black cloak with velvet and a black satin jacket. There was also a pair of silk pants and a fancy clock. Janet Leslie later married James Elphinstone. She was also known as Lady Naughton.
