John Lindsay, 20th Earl of Crawford facts for kids
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John Lindsay, 20th Earl of Crawford (born October 4, 1702 – died December 25, 1749) was an important Scottish nobleman. He was a Lieutenant-General in the army. He also became the very first colonel of the famous Black Watch regiment when it was formed in 1739.
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A Young Leader's Journey
John Lindsay was the son of Lieutenant-General John Lindsay, 19th Earl of Crawford. When his father passed away in 1714, John inherited his important titles. This made him the 20th Earl of Crawford.
He received a good education. He studied at the University of Glasgow in Scotland. He also attended the Vaudeuil Military Academy in Paris, France. This training helped him prepare for a life in the military.
Starting a Military Career
In 1726, the Earl of Crawford joined the 3rd Foot Guards. This was a famous British army regiment. He later gained experience by serving in the armies of Austria and Russia. This gave him a wide view of military tactics.
In the summer of 1739, he faced a tough battle. It was called the Battle of Grocka, near Belgrade. During this fight, he was badly hurt by a bullet in his leg. He was almost left behind on the battlefield. But he recovered enough to travel back to Vienna. From there, he went to Britain.
Leading the Black Watch
Back in Britain, John Lindsay took command of the Black Watch. This was a new and important Scottish regiment. He led them from 1739 to 1740.
He continued to rise in the army. He became Colonel of the 2nd Troop of Horse Grenadier Guards (1740–1743). Then he led the 4th Troop of Horse Guards (1743–1746). He fought bravely at the Battle of Dettingen in 1743.
Rising Through the Ranks
John Lindsay became a Brigadier-General in 1744. The next year, in 1745, he was promoted to Major-General. He played a part in the Jacobite rising of 1745. This was a conflict where supporters of the Stuart royal family tried to regain the throne. He also fought in the Battle of Fontenoy in 1745.
He later became Colonel of the 25th Foot (1746–1747). He fought in the Battle of Rocoux in 1746. In 1747, he earned the rank of Lieutenant-General. His last command was as Colonel of the 2nd Dragoons (1747–1749).
Other Achievements
Beyond his military life, John Lindsay was also interested in science. In 1732, he was chosen as a Fellow of the Royal Society. This is a very old and respected group for scientists.
He was also involved in the Freemasons. In 1734, he became the Grand Master of the Premier Grand Lodge of England. This was a very high position in the organization.
Family Life and Legacy
In 1747, John Lindsay married Lady Jean Murray. She was the daughter of Lieutenant-General Sir James Murray, 2nd Duke of Atholl. Sadly, Lady Jean passed away only nine months after their wedding.
John Lindsay himself died on December 25, 1749. His death was caused by the leg wound he received at the Battle of Grocka in 1739. He was the last person from the Lindsay family to be buried in the family tomb. This tomb is located in the cemetery at Ceres, Fife, Scotland.
He also had a half-brother named Alexander Fraser, Lord Strichen. They shared the same mother, Lady Emelia Stuart.
