Margaret Nairne, 2nd Lady Nairne facts for kids

Margaret Nairne, 2nd Baroness Nairne, later known as Countess of Nairne, was a brave Scottish noblewoman who lived from 1669 to 1747. She was a strong supporter of the Jacobite cause for many years. This was a movement that wanted to bring the old royal family, the Stuarts, back to the throne of Scotland, England, and Ireland. Margaret's husband, William Murray, 2nd Lord Nairne, faced a death sentence because he was involved in plans for a Scottish rebellion. Margaret traveled all the way from Edinburgh to London to ask for his freedom. Her efforts were successful, and her husband was saved.

Margaret's Early Life and Family

Margaret was born in Edinburgh in 1669. She was the only child of Margaret Graham and Robert Nairne, who was the 1st Lord Nairne. When her father passed away in 1683, Margaret became the Baroness Nairne herself. She held this title for seven years.

Like many noble families at that time, Margaret's marriage was arranged. Her first engagement was to Lord George Murray. However, this plan was canceled because Lord George was often ill. So, in 1690, Margaret married his brother, William, who was born in 1664. Because Margaret was the only heir to her family's title, her husband became the 2nd Lord Nairne when they married. He was also given the higher rank of earl.

Margaret and William had twelve children together. One of their sons was John, who later became the 3rd Lord Nairne. Almost all of their children were strong supporters of the Jacobite cause. Sadly, their son Robert was killed at the Battle of Culloden on April 16, 1746. Their daughter Margaret was also put in prison that same year for actively supporting the rebellion.

Supporting the Jacobite Cause

The Jacobite rising was an attempt to bring the exiled House of Stuart back to the throne. The Nairne family were very active in this rebellion. In November 1715, Margaret's husband and their oldest son, John, were captured at the Battle of Preston. They were taken to London and charged with a very serious crime against the king. Lord Nairne was sent to the Tower of London, and John was sent to Newgate prison. Margaret immediately traveled south to be with them.

After much effort, King George I finally granted a pardon. Lord Nairne was released in August 1717. The dangers and difficulties of the rebellion did not stop Margaret from supporting the Jacobite cause. When Bonnie Prince Charlie returned to Scotland in 1745, Margaret welcomed him to Nairne House.

Margaret's Letters

Margaret and her husband wrote many letters to their family and friends. These letters, written in the first half of the 18th century, tell us about their personal lives and their political concerns. For example, they wrote about needing £5,000 for repairs after a fire at their family home. They even mentioned that their house had "a window for every day of the year," which means it was very large!

One series of letters written by Lady Margaret describes her journey to London. She went there to ask the king for her husband's release from the Tower of London. She even lived with him in the Tower for a time in 1716. These letters show her determination and love for her family.