John Stewart of Darnley facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
John Stewart
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| 1st Seigneur d'Aubigny, Comte d'Évreux, Seigneur de Concressault | |
Arms of John Stewart of Darnley
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| Predecessor | New creation |
| Successor | John Stewart, 2nd Lord of Aubigny |
| Born | c. 1380 |
| Died | 1429 Rouvray-Sainte-Croix, Loiret, France |
| Buried | Orléans Cathedral |
| Noble family | Stewart of Darnley |
| Spouse(s) | Elizabeth of Lennox |
| Issue |
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| Father | Alexander Stewart of Darnley |
Sir John Stewart of Darnley (born around 1380, died 1429) was a brave Scottish nobleman and military leader. He became famous for leading the Scottish army in France. His mission was to help the French fight against the English during the Hundred Years War. John Stewart was a distant cousin of James I of Scotland, who was the King of Scotland at that time.
Contents
Early Life and Family Connections
John Stewart was the son of Sir Alexander Stewart of Darnley. His mother was Janet Keith. His family, the Stewarts, were distant relatives of the Scottish kings. This connection came from his ancestor, Sir John Stewart of Bonkyll.
In 1404, John Stewart took over his father's lands and titles. He was knighted around 1418. This meant he was given the special title of "Sir" for his bravery and service.
Joining the War in France
In 1418, the French prince, known as the Dauphin, asked Scotland for help. He needed soldiers to fight against the English. King James I of Scotland agreed to send troops. The Dauphin specifically asked for Sir John Stewart of Darnley to lead them.
So, in 1419, Sir John Stewart traveled to France. He went with a large group of Scottish soldiers. By 1420, he was officially named the Constable of the Scottish Army in France. This meant he was the main commander.
First Victories and New Titles
Sir John Stewart led his troops in the Battle of Baugé in 1421. This was the Dauphin's first big victory against the English. After this success, John Stewart was given the title of Seigneur of Concressault in France.
When the Dauphin became King Charles VII of France, John Stewart continued to serve him. King Charles rewarded him further. In 1422, he granted John Stewart the lordship of Aubigny-sur-Nère.
Challenges and Important Roles
King Charles VII ordered John Stewart to cross the Loire River. His task was to take back areas like Auxerrois and Nevernois from the English. He tried to capture the town of Cravant. However, his army was defeated there. John Stewart himself was captured and lost an eye in the battle.
Because he was captured, he missed the Battle of Verneuil. This was a major defeat for the French and Scottish armies. King Charles paid for John Stewart's release. After his release, John Stewart took command of the remaining Scottish soldiers. These soldiers formed a special group called the Garde Écossaise, or Scottish Guards. They became the King of France's personal bodyguards.
Later Achievements and Royal Recognition
John Stewart achieved another victory against the English at Mont Saint-Michel. To thank him and help with his war costs, King Charles made him the Count of Évreux. John Stewart promised to give up this title if the King paid him 50,000 gold crowns.
King Charles couldn't pay the money. Instead, he gave John Stewart a special honor. He allowed him to add the Fleur-de-Lis (the royal symbol of France) to his family's coat of arms. This was a very high honor.
In 1428, John Stewart returned to Scotland. He went with the Archbishop of Rheims. Their mission was to gather more soldiers for France. They also worked on arranging a marriage. This was between Princess Margaret of Scotland and King Charles's son, Louis.
Final Battle and Legacy
John Stewart returned to France in 1429. He brought 1,000 more soldiers with him. He joined the Siege of Orléans, a very important battle. Just four days later, he led the Scottish soldiers at the Battle of the Herrings. Sadly, he was killed in this battle. His brother, William, also died trying to save him.
Sir John Stewart of Darnley was buried in the Sainte-Croix Cathedral in Orléans, France.
Family Life
John Stewart married Elizabeth, the daughter of Donnchadh, Earl of Lennox, around 1408. Elizabeth stayed in Scotland for some time. Later, she joined John in France. She died about ten months after him and was buried next to him in Orléans.
They had three children:
- Sir Alan Stewart of Darnley: His descendants include the Stewart Earls of Lennox and later, King James VI of Scotland.
- Sir John Stewart, 2nd Lord of Aubigny
- Alexander Stewart of Darnley
See also
Images for kids
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Tomb of John Stewart at Orleans
