John Maxwell, 9th Lord Maxwell facts for kids

John Maxwell, 9th Lord Maxwell (c. 1583 – 21 May 1613) was an important Scottish nobleman. He was known for a famous escape from Edinburgh Castle in 1607. Later, in 1608, he was involved in the death of the Laird of Johnstone. Because of these events, he faced serious consequences, and his noble titles were taken away.

Early Life and Family Feuds

The Maxwell family was a powerful noble house in Scotland. They had owned Caerlaverock Castle near Dumfries since the 1200s. By the mid-1500s, they were one of the strongest families in southwest Scotland.

John Maxwell was the first son of the 8th Lord Maxwell, who died in 1593. His mother was Elizabeth Douglas. John's father was killed in a conflict with another powerful family, the Johnstones of Annandale.

Continuing the Family Conflict

John Maxwell continued the long-standing conflict with the Johnstone family. In 1602, he was involved in the deaths of several Johnstones at a place called Dalfeble. However, in 1605, he tried to make peace with the Laird of Johnstone.

John Maxwell also had disagreements with the Earl of Morton. Because of these quarrels, a group called the Privy Council stopped him from going to the Scottish Parliament in 1607.

Imprisonment and Escape

Despite being told not to attend, John Maxwell went to Parliament. There, he openly challenged the Earl of Morton. For this act, he was arrested and sent to prison in Edinburgh Castle.

In October 1607, John Maxwell managed to escape from the castle. He fled to Dumfriesshire, an area where his family had strong connections.

Meeting with Johnstone

In April 1608, John Maxwell arranged to meet the Laird of Johnstone. Both men had promised a truce for this meeting. However, during their discussion, the Laird of Johnstone was shot and killed. John Maxwell was involved in this event.

After this, John Maxwell fled to France to avoid being caught.

Consequences and Execution

While he was in France, John Maxwell was found guilty of serious crimes in Scotland. These included treason (betraying the king), other killings, and his escape from Edinburgh Castle. He was sentenced to death, and his noble titles were taken away.

In 1612, John Maxwell returned to Scotland and was arrested. He tried to make peace with the Johnstone family by suggesting a marriage between their families. This attempt was not successful.

On May 21, 1613, John Maxwell was executed in Edinburgh. A traditional Scottish song, "Lord Maxwell's Last Goodnight", tells the story of his actions.

Family and Legacy

In 1597, John Maxwell married Margaret Hamilton. They had no children who survived.

His younger brother, Robert Maxwell, later became the 10th Lord Maxwell in 1617. Robert was also given the new title of Earl of Nithsdale in 1620.