Prior of Beauly facts for kids

The Prior of Beauly was the main leader of a special religious community called Beauly Priory. This priory was a type of monastery located in Beauly, Inverness-shire, Scotland. It was first started around the year 1230 by a group of monks known as the Valliscaulians. Later, in 1510, it became part of a different, larger group of monks called the Cistercians. The leader's title changed over time from 'Prior' to 'Commendator'.

Beauly Priory: A Historic Monastery

Beauly Priory was an important religious building in Scotland. It was a place where monks lived, prayed, and worked. Monasteries like Beauly Priory played a big role in their local communities. They often helped people and kept knowledge alive during historical times.

What Was a Prior?

A Prior was the head of a priory, which is a type of monastery. Think of them as the principal or director of the whole community. They were responsible for managing the monks, the land, and all the activities of the priory. It was a very important leadership role.

The Leaders of Beauly Priory

Over many centuries, different people led Beauly Priory. These leaders were known first as Priors and later as Commendators. They guided the monks and managed the priory's affairs.

Priors: Early Leaders

The first leaders of Beauly Priory were called Priors. They were usually monks themselves. They followed the rules of their religious order, first the Valliscaulians, then the Cistercians. Many individuals held this role, guiding the priory for decades.

• Geoffrey, who was a Prior in 1312.
• Robert, who led from 1341 to 1357.
• Alexander Fraser, a Prior from 1430 to 1471.
• Dugald McRory, who served from 1498 to 1514.

Commendators: Later Leaders

Later, the leaders of Beauly Priory were called Commendators. This title often meant that the person in charge might not be a monk living at the priory all the time. They were still responsible for its management and well-being.

• Robert Reid was a Commendator from 1531 to 1553. He was also a bishop.
• John Fraser served as Commendator from 1573 to 1579.
• Adam Cuming held the role from 1581 to 1607.
• James Hay de Kingask was Commendator from 1607 to 1612.

These leaders helped shape the history of Beauly Priory. They oversaw its daily life and its place in Scottish history.