John Somerville, 4th Lord Somerville facts for kids

John Somerville, the 4th Lord Somerville, lived from about 1484 to 1523. He was an important noble in Scotland and a member of the Parliament of Scotland. This meant he had a role in the government of the country.

John Somerville was the oldest son of William Somerville, who was known as the Master of Somerville. His grandfather was John Somerville, 3rd Lord Somerville. His mother was Marjory Montgomerie. Her father was Alexander Montgomerie, the 2nd Lord Montgomerie, and her brother was Hugh Montgomerie, 1st Earl of Eglinton.

Life as a Lord

A family history from the 1600s, written by James, the 11th Lord Somerville, describes John Somerville as someone who wasn't very active in managing his own affairs. Because of this, his family members, called "tutors" and "curators," helped him handle his business and property.

Historians have found very few records about John Somerville. They only found one official document, called a "charter," that he signed in Edinburgh in 1510. This document was related to him becoming an adult. It is believed that Lord John spent most of his life quietly at Cowthally Castle, which was near Carnwath.

There are no records that show John Somerville ever attended a meeting of the Scottish Parliament. This suggests he preferred a private life rather than a public role in government.

Death and Succession

Sadly, John Somerville died in 1523. Some historians believe he was killed during the famous Battle of Flodden in 1513. Many other Scottish nobles also died in this battle.

After his death, his brother, Hugh Somerville, became the next Lord Somerville.

Sources

• Archbold, William Arthur Jobson (1898). "Somerville, Hugh". Dictionary of National Biography 53. Ed. Sidney Lee. London: Smith, Elder & Co. 250,251. 
• Scott, Walter, ed., James Somerville, author, The Memorie of the Somervilles by James, 11th Lord Somerville, vol. 1, Ballantyne, Edinburgh (1815)
• Scott, Walter, ed., The Memorie of the Somervilles by James, 11th Lord Somerville, vol. 2, Ballantyne, Edinburgh (1815)