John St Clair, 17th Baron of Roslin facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
William St Clair
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| Baron of Roslin | |
Baron of Roslin coat of arms
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| Predecessor | William St Clair, 16th Baron of Roslin |
| Successor | James St Clair, 18th Baron of Roslin |
| Died | 1690 |
| Noble family | Clan Sinclair |
| Father | William St Clair |
| Mother | Dame Anna Spotswood |
John St Clair (died 1690) was a Scottish nobleman and the 17th Baron of Roslin. He was known for bravely defending his family's home, Roslin Castle, during a difficult time in Scottish history.
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Early Life of John St Clair
John St Clair was the second son of William St Clair, 16th Baron of Roslin. His mother was Dame Anna Spotswood. Her father, John Spottiswoode, was an important church leader. He was the Archbishop of Glasgow and later the Archbishop of St Andrews, and even the Chancellor of Scotland.
John's older brother, William, sadly passed away before their father. This meant that John became the next Baron of Roslin. He inherited the family's lands and title.
Challenges as Baron of Roslin
When John became Baron, his family's lands faced some financial problems. Parts of the estate had to be managed by others for a while. In 1663, some land called Cattune was sold to Lord Borthwick.
John St Clair worked hard to get control of his family's lands back. After some legal actions, he successfully regained the Roslin lands in 1668.
Defending Roslin Castle
One of the most famous events in John St Clair's life happened during the Civil War. After the Battle of Dunbar in 1650, Oliver Cromwell's army was in Scotland.
A commander named General Monk, with 600 soldiers and powerful artillery, attacked Roslin Castle. John St Clair, the 17th Baron, bravely defended his home. He fought against Monk's much larger force. He only gave up the castle after one side of it was badly damaged by the cannons. After the castle fell, John St Clair was taken as a prisoner to Tynemouth Castle.
Later Life and Legacy
John St Clair, the 17th Baron of Roslin, passed away in 1690. His brother, James St Clair, 18th Baron of Roslin, then became the next Baron. John St Clair is remembered for his courage in defending Roslin Castle.
See Also
