Robert Nairne, 1st Lord Nairne facts for kids

Sir Robert Nairne (born 1600, died 1683) was an important Scottish judge. He was also known as the 1st Lord Nairne. He lived during a time of big changes in Scotland.

Life of Sir Robert Nairne

Robert Nairne was the oldest son of Robert Nairne. His family lived in Perthshire, Scotland. His mother was Margaret, whose father was Sir John Preston. Sir John was a very important judge.

Like his father, Robert became a lawyer. He joined a group called the Faculty of Advocates. This group was for top lawyers in Scotland.

Robert Nairne supported the King. People who supported the King were called royalists. In 1651, General George Monck's soldiers captured Robert Nairne. This happened in Alyth, Forfarshire. It was known as 'the Onfall of Alyth'.

Robert was sent to the Tower of London as a prisoner. He stayed there for many years. He was finally set free in 1660. This was when the King returned to power. This event is called the Restoration.

After his release, King Charles II gave Robert Nairne a special job. On June 1, 1661, he became a lord of session. This meant he was a judge in Scotland's highest court. He was also made a knight. Later, in 1671, he joined the court of justiciary. This court handled serious criminal cases.

In 1681, Robert Nairne received a new honor. He was made a Scottish peer. This gave him the title of Lord Nairne. After he passed away, his son-in-law, Lord William Murray, would take the title. Lord William Murray then used the Nairne family name.

In 1681, Lord Nairne was part of a big trial. It was the trial of Archibald Campbell, 9th Earl of Argyll. Lord Nairne was very old and tired during the trial. He had to leave for a short time. When he returned, he helped the judges make a decision. Because of his age, he was later excused from attending court. This happened in 1683.

Family of Lord Nairne

Sir Robert Nairne was married to Margaret. She was the daughter of Patrick Graham. They had one daughter named Margaret. She married Lord William Murray. He later became the second Lord Nairne.