Mary of Scotland, Countess of Boulogne facts for kids

Mary of Scotland (born 1082, died 1116) was a princess from Scotland. She was the younger daughter of Malcolm III of Scotland, who was the King of Scotland. Her mother was his second wife, Margaret of Wessex. Mary was part of the House of Dunkeld, a royal family. When she married, she became the Countess of Boulogne.

Early Life and Education

Mary and her older sister, Matilda, had a special upbringing. In 1086, their parents sent them to Romsey Abbey. An abbey is like a monastery for women, where nuns live and pray. Their aunt, Christina, was the abbess there. An abbess is the head nun of an abbey.

The sisters spent their early years at Romsey Abbey. They also received part of their education there. Before 1093, they moved to Wilton Abbey. This abbey was also known as a great place for learning. Matilda, Mary's sister, received many offers to marry. However, she decided to wait for the right time.

Marriage and Family

In 1100, Mary's sister Matilda left the monastery. She married King Henry I of England. This marriage caused some discussion. People wondered if the sisters had taken vows to become nuns. If they had, they would not be allowed to marry.

Mary herself left the abbey in 1096. Her sister Matilda wanted her to marry too. So, King Henry I of England arranged a marriage for Mary. She married Eustace III, Count of Boulogne.

Mary and Eustace had one daughter together. Her name was Matilda. This daughter later became the Countess of Boulogne after her father. She also became the Queen of England when she married.

Later Life and Death

Mary died in the year 1116. This was nine years before her husband, Eustace. She was buried at the Cluniac abbey in Bermondsey.