Léot of Brechin facts for kids

Léot of Brechin was a very important religious leader in early Scotland. He was the first known Abbot of Brechin. An abbot is like the head of a monastery or a religious community. Léot's name appears in several old and important documents from his time.
Who Was Léot of Brechin?
Léot lived in the 12th century, a long time ago! He was the leader of the religious community in a place called Brechin, which is in Scotland. Being an abbot meant he had a lot of influence. He was a key figure in both religious and local matters.
Léot in Important Documents
We know about Léot because his name is written in three old official papers called charters. Charters were like important legal documents back then. They recorded agreements or grants of land.
- The Book of Deer Charter: One of the first times Léot is mentioned is in a very old book called the Book of Deer. This document is written in both Scots Gaelic and Latin. It clearly states his name as "Léot ab Brecini". This charter is from the year 1131. That was during the time of King David I of Scotland.
- King David I's Land Grant: Léot is also named in a charter from King David I. This document, from around 1150, gave land to Dunfermline Abbey. In this paper, Léot is called "Leod abbate de Breichin". This shows he was a recognized and important person.
- Haddington Church Charter: A third charter, also from King David I, mentions a "Leod de Brechin". This document is from 1141. It was about the church of St. Mary in Haddington. This likely refers to the same Léot.
His Family Connection
Historians believe that Léot was the father of Samson. Samson later became the first known Bishop of Brechin. A bishop is another high-ranking church leader. This suggests that Léot's family was very important in the church in Scotland.