John Munro, 11th Baron of Foulis facts for kids
John Munro of Foulis was an important clan chief from the Clan Munro in Rosshire, Scotland. He lived a long time ago and passed away in 1491. People traditionally say he was the 11th Baron of Foulis and the 14th chief of his clan. But, from old records we have today, he is actually the 4th chief we can be sure about.
Who Was John Munro?
John Munro of Foulis was the son of George Munro. His father died in 1452 during a fight called the Battle of Bealach nam Broig. There's a story that when his father died, the leadership of the clan went to a baby in a cradle. If this story is true, then John Munro was that baby.
While John was too young to lead, his uncle, John Munro, 1st of Milntown, helped manage things as the "Tutor of Foulis." In 1454, his uncle led a small expedition into Perthshire. This event led to a conflict known as the Battle of Clachnaharry.
Managing Lands and Titles
In 1453, John Munro of Foulis officially took control of the lands that belonged to his late father. This was done with permission from John of Islay, who was the Earl of Ross and also the chief of Clan Donald.
Later, in 1476, the Earldom of Ross was taken over by the Crown (the King). John Munro of Foulis was then made the Crown Chamberlain for these lands. This meant he was in charge of managing the King's estates there. He also became the governor of Dingwall Castle.
In 1478, the King gave John back the lands of Findon. These lands were part of the Earldom of Ormond. By October 1487, John Munro was known as "Lord of Fowlis."
Historians have found different dates for John Munro's death. Some old writings say he died in 1490, while others suggest 1496. However, official documents from his time, called the Munro Writs of Foulis, show that he passed away on June 5, 1491.
John Munro's Family
John Munro married a woman named Finvola. She was the daughter of William Calder, who was the Thane of Cawdor and chief of Clan Calder. William Calder was also a Crown Chamberlain, managing lands "beyond the Spey River."
John Munro and Finvola had two sons:
- William Munro: He was the oldest son and became the next chief of the Clan Munro.
- Thomas Munro: A document from 1499 mentions a son named Thomas. However, historians like Alexander Mackenzie haven't found much more information about him. Another historian, R.W. Munro, says that ideas about John having a second son named Thomas come from an old agreement between the Dunbar and Mackintosh families.
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