Justiciar of Galloway facts for kids
The Justiciar of Galloway was a very important job in the Kingdom of Scotland a long time ago, during the High Middle Ages. This person was like a top judge and manager for the king in the area called Galloway.
The Justiciars of Galloway made sure that the king's laws were followed in Galloway. There were other similar jobs too, like the Justiciar of Lothian and the Justiciar of Scotia. This important role might have started when King William of Scotland was king, who died in 1214.
What Was a Justiciar of Galloway?
A Justiciar was a high-ranking official. They were in charge of making sure justice happened. They worked for the king. Their main job was to oversee the legal system. They helped keep the peace in their region.
The Justiciar of Galloway was special. They looked after the region of Galloway. This area is in the southwest of Scotland. It was a very important part of the kingdom. The Justiciar made sure the king's rules were fair.
Who Were the Justiciars?
These officials were powerful people. They were chosen by the king. They had to be trusted. Their job was to represent the king's authority. They helped unite the kingdom under one law.
The Justiciars also handled important cases. They made sure people followed the law. They helped solve big arguments. This made the kingdom stronger. It also helped people feel safe.
Important People in the Role
Many different people held the title of Justiciar of Galloway. They came from powerful families. Some were Scottish, and some were English during times of conflict. Here are some of the people who held this important job:
- Lochlann of Galloway (died 1200)
- John I Comyn, Lord of Badenoch (in 1258)
- Stephen Fleming (from 1263 to 1264)
- Aymer Maxwell (in 1264)
- William St. Clair (in 1288)
- Roger Skoter (in 1296)
- John de Botetourt (in 1303)
- Roger de Kirkpatrick
and Walter de Burghdon (in 1305) - John Gordon of Lochinvar (until 1586)
