Oliver St Clair, 12th Baron of Roslin facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Oliver St Clair
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| Baron of Roslin | |
Baron of Roslin coat of arms
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| Predecessor | William Sinclair, 11th Baron of Roslin |
| Successor | William St Clair, 13th Baron of Roslin |
| Died | 1525 |
| Noble family | Clan Sinclair |
| Father | William Sinclair |
| Mother | Marjory Sutherland |
Oliver St Clair (died 1523) was an important Scottish noble. He was the 12th Baron of Roslin, a title that meant he was a powerful landowner.
Contents
Early Life and Family
Oliver St Clair was the oldest son from his father's second marriage. His father was William Sinclair, 1st Earl of Caithness, who was also the 11th Baron of Roslin. Oliver's mother was Marjory Sutherland.
Oliver's father had another son, William Sinclair, from his first marriage. This older brother inherited the title of Lord Sinclair. However, Oliver received the Barony of Roslin. His younger brother, also named William, became the Earl of Caithness.
Important Lands and Estates
On September 9, 1476, Oliver St Clair received many lands from his father. These included the baronies of Roslin, Pentland, and Herbertshire. He also gained the lands of Cousland, Carberry, and Dysart. King James III of Scotland confirmed these gifts the very next day.
Later, Oliver made an agreement with his brother, William Sinclair. Oliver gave him some lands like Cousland, Dysart, and Ravenscraig. In return, William and his son agreed to give up their claims to the Barony of Roslin. This helped to keep the Roslin title with Oliver's family line.
A Feud with Lord Borthwick
Oliver St Clair was involved in a long-lasting disagreement, or feud, with Lord Borthwick. This feud began after an incident at Roslin Castle. After a meal, Oliver St Clair had one of the Borthwick family members thrown over the drawbridge. This event led to years of conflict between the two noble families.
Building Rosslyn Chapel
One of Oliver St Clair's significant achievements was completing the construction of Rosslyn Chapel. This beautiful chapel had been started by his father, William Sinclair. Oliver made sure the work was finished, adding to the chapel's unique history and design.
Oliver's Family
Oliver St Clair was married three times. His first wife was Christian Haldane. His second wife was Elizabeth Borthwick, daughter of William Borthwick, 3rd Lord Borthwick. His third wife was Isabella Livingstone.
Oliver had several children:
- George St Clair, who was expected to inherit Roslin. He married Agnes Crichton but died in 1510.
- William St Clair, 13th Baron of Roslin, who became the next Baron.
- Henry Sinclair, who became a Bishop of Ross.
- Oliver Sinclair, known for leading the Scottish army at the Battle of Solway Moss.
- John Sinclair, who became a Bishop of Brechin.
- Alexander St Clair, who received land from King James V of Scotland in 1541.
- Arthur St Clair, who received land from Andrew Durie, the Abbot of Melrose.
- James St Clair, who also received land.
- Margaret St Clair, who married Sir Thomas Kirkpatrick.
See also
