John de Graham facts for kids
Sir John de Graham was a brave Scottish knight from the 13th century. He was a close friend and trusted leader who fought alongside William Wallace during the Wars of Scottish Independence. These wars were a time when Scotland fought to remain independent from England. Sir John de Graham is remembered for his courage and for giving his life for Scotland at the Battle of Falkirk in 1298.
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Fighting for Scotland
Sir John de Graham was born in the lands of Dundaff, Scotland. He became a very important figure in the fight for Scottish freedom. He fought in major battles against the English army.
One of his most famous battles was the Battle of Stirling Bridge in 1297. In this battle, the Scottish forces, led by William Wallace, won a great victory. This showed that the Scots could stand up to the much larger English army.
The Battle of Falkirk
Sadly, Sir John de Graham was killed during the Battle of Falkirk on July 22, 1298. This battle was a tough fight where the Scottish army faced a stronger English force. The English army was led by Edward I of England, who had many skilled cavalry (soldiers on horseback).
Sir John de Graham was one of several important Scottish leaders who died that day. His death was a big loss for the Scottish cause.
His Legacy
Sir John de Graham is buried at the Falkirk Old Parish Church in Falkirk, Scotland. His gravestone and a statue of him can still be seen there. The words on his gravestone tell us how brave and wise he was. They say he was one of the best knights ever.
A famous Scottish poet named Blind Harry wrote about Sir John de Graham. His poem, The Wallace, tells many stories about William Wallace. The part where Wallace mourns Sir John's death is considered one of the most powerful parts of the poem.
Sir John de Graham's name lives on in Falkirk. A part of the town is called Grahamston, named after him. This area also has a train station called Falkirk Grahamston railway station.
There is also a special memorial fountain in Victoria Park, Falkirk. It marks the exact spot where Sir John de Graham bravely fell in battle. A local group, "The Society of John De Graeme," works to remember and promote the story of this Scottish knight.
