Robert Abercromby (saddler) facts for kids

Robert Abercromby was a skilled leatherworker from Scotland in the 1500s. He was known for making saddles and other horse riding gear for the Scottish royal family, including Mary, Queen of Scots and her son, James VI. He was an important craftsman in Edinburgh and lived in a large building called the Black Turnpike on the Royal Mile.

Robert Abercromby's Work

Abercromby and his family made saddles and equipment for horses used by the royal family. In September 1561, he created saddles and special coverings called "foot mantles" for the queen and her twelve ladies-in-waiting. These saddles were covered in black cloth by the stable master Arthur Erskine of Blackgrange. This was done as a sign of mourning for Mary's first husband, Francis II of France, who had passed away.

Later, in September 1565, Mary, Queen of Scots and Lord Darnley ordered colorful red and yellow cloths to cover their horses. Robert also made a leather saddle cover for Lord Darnley. In July 1567, the queen asked him for a foot mantle made from black velvet with gold fringes and shiny buckles. He was also paid for other items he delivered to the royal stable masters.

Royal Duties and Business

In July 1567, Robert Abercromby was chosen as one of Edinburgh's representatives. He was sent with Michael Gilbert and Nicol Edward to the coronation of James VI in Stirling. His wife also helped the royal family. In September 1567, she sold fine linen cloth for James VI to use at Stirling Castle.

Around 1568, Robert likely worked for Agnes Keith, Countess of Moray. He covered stools with leather, fixed saddles, and even made collars for dogs.

In 1579, he supplied three velvet foot mantles to James VI. Robert was also involved in selling books.

Working for Anne of Denmark

In September 1589, the city council of Edinburgh chose Robert Abercromby for a special role. He was one of twelve men who carried a canopy, or "paill," over Anne of Denmark during her grand entry and coronation into the city. This was a very important ceremony. In June 1591, he made a bright red silk cover for the king's horse. This was possibly for a special court show or party called a masque.

Abraham Abercromby

Abraham Abercromby was either Robert's son or nephew. He also worked as a saddler for the royal family. He repaired Anne of Denmark's special carriage, called a litter, when Prince Charles was moved from Dunfermline Palace to Holyrood Palace in 1600. Abraham also made four saddles that were sent with gift horses to France. He became the saddler for Prince Henry in England, and later for King Charles I.

Abercromby the Performer

A person named Mr. Abercromby took part in court masques, which were elaborate plays and dances performed for the royal family. Many people believe this was a saddler. He performed in masques like For the Honour of Wales and Love Restored by the famous writer Ben Jonson. John Chamberlain, a letter writer, described Abercromby and John Auchmoutie as "high dancers," meaning they were very good at dancing. John Auchmoutie was a Scottish landowner and a royal servant.

Another Abercromby, Patrick, traveled to Heidelberg in April 1613 with Princess Elizabeth. This was after her marriage to Frederick V of the Palatinate. Patrick was ranked alongside James Auchmoutie, who was John Auchmoutie's brother.

Abercromby in the Queen's Wardrobe

Sir George Abercromby was an officer in Anne of Denmark's royal wardrobe in England. The wardrobe officers were in charge of the queen's clothes, jewels, and other valuable items. He likely took over this role from David Abercromby, who passed away in 1609. These officers were responsible for making payments to people like the goldsmith George Heriot for the queen's jewels.

George Abercromby once used the queen's jewels as a guarantee for a loan with Rebecca Romney. He was given a yearly payment of £80 in March 1612. He might have been the same Abercromby who performed in the court masques. In 1624, he became a "denizen" of England, which meant he was given special rights as a resident.