Robert Elphinstone, 3rd Lord Elphinstone facts for kids
_(14592145038).jpg)
Robert Elphinstone, 3rd Lord Elphinstone (1530-1602) was an important Scottish noble. He owned land and served in the royal court. He lived during a time of big changes in Scotland, including the reign of Mary, Queen of Scots.
Robert was the son of Alexander Elphinstone, 2nd Lord Elphinstone. His mother was Katherine Erskine. Katherine's family, the Erskines, were also powerful nobles. Robert's great-aunt, Euphemia Elphinstone, was the mother of Robert, Earl of Orkney.
The Elphinstone family owned lands near Stirling. These lands were close to the River Forth and the town of Airth. Their main home was Elphinstone Tower.
Robert became Lord Elphinstone after his father died. His father passed away at the Battle of Pinkie in 1547. This battle was a major event in Scottish history.
Early Life and Challenges
When he was younger, Robert faced some challenges with his family's finances. In 1554, he decided to get help managing his properties. He asked his grandfather, Lord Erskine, and his father-in-law, John Drummond, for assistance. This agreement happened at Stirling Castle. Mary of Guise, who was ruling Scotland at the time, was present.
Later, in 1565, there was a misunderstanding. Robert's brother-in-law, Alexander Drummond, was accused of working with Lady Elphinstone. They were said to be trying to manage Robert's income. However, it seems this issue was resolved without further problems.
Political Life and Loyalty
Robert Elphinstone lived during a time of political unrest in Scotland. In 1567, he chose not to sign a document called the Ainslie Tavern Bond. This document would have shown his support for the Earl of Bothwell.
Robert was a strong supporter of Mary, Queen of Scots. Because of this, Regent Moray, who ruled Scotland for the young King James VI, ordered Robert to give up Elphinstone Tower in 1568.
By 1577, Robert was still known for supporting Mary, Queen of Scots. He also remained a Catholic. In that year, he passed control of his family's estates to his oldest son, Alexander. Robert visited London in 1592 and returned home in November of that year.
Robert, Lord Elphinstone, passed away on May 18, 1602. He was buried in the church at Airth.
Family
Robert Elphinstone married Margaret Drummond. Margaret was the daughter of John Drummond of Innerpeffray. Her mother was Margaret Stewart, who was a daughter of James IV of Scotland.
Robert and Margaret had several children:
- Alexander Elphinstone, 4th Lord Elphinstone
- James Elphinstone, 1st Lord Balmerino
- Father George Elphinstone, who was a leader at the Scots College in Rome.
- Sir John Elphinstone of Selmis and Baberton. He was a gentleman in the household of Anne of Denmark, the queen. He attended a wedding celebration at Alloa in 1592. He was also a friend of Arbella Stuart.
- Janet Elphinstone, who married Patrick Barclay of Towie.
- Margaret Elphinstone, who married John Cunningham of Drumquhassell in 1587.
