John Kennedy, 8th Earl of Cassilis facts for kids
John Kennedy, 8th Earl of Cassilis (born April 1700 – died 7 August 1759) was an important Scottish nobleman. A nobleman is a person who belongs to a high-ranking family, often with special titles and lands. John Kennedy became the 8th Earl of Cassilis and the 10th Lord Kennedy on 23 July 1701. This means he inherited these titles when he was very young.
Life as a Governor
John Kennedy had an important job during his life. From 1737 to 1759, he was the Governor of Dumbarton Castle. A governor is like a manager or a leader in charge of a place. Dumbarton Castle is a famous historic castle in Scotland. His role meant he was responsible for the castle and its defenses.
Who Inherits the Title?
After the 8th Earl John Kennedy passed away, there was a big question about who would inherit his family's lands and the title of Earl of Cassilis. Two people claimed they should be the next Earl:
- William, Earl of March and Ruglen, who was related through the family's general line.
- Sir Thomas Kennedy of Culzean, 4th Baronet, who was related through the male family line.
A special court in Scotland called the Court of Session looked into the matter. On 29 February 1760, they decided that Sir Thomas Kennedy had the right to the family's lands. Later, on 27 January 1762, the House of Lords in London also agreed that Sir Thomas Kennedy should get the title of Earl. So, Sir Thomas Kennedy became the 9th Earl of Cassilis.
John Kennedy's Family
John Kennedy was the son of a man also named John Kennedy. His mother was Elizabeth Hutchinson (who lived from about 1668 to 1734). Elizabeth's father was Charles Hutchinson, who was a Member of Parliament (M.P.). John Kennedy was also the grandson of John Kennedy, 7th Earl of Cassilis.
On 24 October 1738, John Kennedy married Lady Susan Hamilton. She was the daughter of John Hamilton, 1st Earl of Ruglen.
