John Stewart of Methven facts for kids
Sir John Stewart of Methven (died 1628) was an important Scottish nobleman. He served as the governor of Dumbarton Castle and also held the title of Admiral of the Western Seas. This meant he was in charge of the castle and had a key role in protecting Scotland's western waters.
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Early Life and Family Connections
Sir John Stewart of Methven was the son of Ludovic Stewart, 2nd Duke of Lennox. His father was a very powerful and influential person in Scotland. In 1620, Sir John was given the important job of keeper of Dumbarton Castle. This position was usually given to people connected to the Lennox family.
Sir John Stewart married Margaret Hamilton. She was the daughter of Sir Claud Hamilton of Shawfield, Rutherglen, and Illieston.
Life at Dumbarton Castle
Caring for Castle Guests
While Sir John Stewart was in charge of Dumbarton Castle, his wife, Margaret, met a prisoner named Alexander Simpson. Mr. Simpson was a minister, and he helped Margaret to change her religious beliefs. Sir John Stewart was known for treating prisoners like Alexander Simpson and another minister, Andrew Duncan, very kindly. He even paid for their food and lodging. This was unusual because prisoners at Dumbarton Castle were usually expected to pay for their own meals.
Managing Castle Duties
In 1625, Sir John Stewart of Methven was supposed to have 16 soldiers, called "fensible men," living in Dumbarton Castle. Their job was to guard the castle day and night. However, it was said that Sir John did not always stay at the castle to do his duties. He often spent time in Ireland at Mongavlin Castle, which he had built in 1611. He also had lands in Raphoe and Portloughe in Donegal, Ireland. These lands had been given to his father, the Duke of Lennox.
Later Life and Passing
Sir John Stewart of Methven passed away in 1628. His widow, Margaret, later married Sir John Seton of Gargunnock in 1629.
