Robert de Brus, 2nd Lord of Annandale facts for kids

Robert II de Brus was an important Norman noble who lived in the 1100s. He was known as the 2nd Lord of Annandale. This means he was the second leader of a large area of land in Scotland called Annandale. He was the son of Robert de Brus, who was the first Lord of Annandale. Robert II was active around 1138 and passed away around 1194.

Robert II: A Loyal Leader

Robert II de Brus lived during a time when powerful families often had lands in different countries. His father, Robert I, had lands in both Scotland and England.

Choosing Sides in Battle

Around 1138, King David I of Scotland invaded England. This made things tricky for Robert I, as he had promised loyalty to both kings. Before a big fight called the Battle of the Standard in 1138, Robert I decided to support the English king.

However, young Robert II chose to stay loyal to King David I of Scotland. Because of his loyalty, Robert II took over his father's lands in Scotland. His father's lands in England went to Robert II's older brother, Adam de Brus. There's a story that Robert II was even captured by his own father during the battle and handed over to King Stephen of England.

A New Home in Annandale

Robert II made Lochmaben the main center of his lordship in Annandale. He built a new castle there, which became the most important place for him to manage his lands and people.

The Legend of St. Malachy

A famous legend tells a story about Robert II. In the 1140s, a holy man named St Malachy visited Robert II at Annan. St. Malachy asked Robert to forgive a thief, but Robert decided to hang the thief anyway. The legend says that because of this, the River Annan destroyed part of Robert's castle. It is also said that the de Brus family line received a curse from the holy man.

Robert II's Family Life

Robert II de Brus was married to a woman named Euphemia. She might have been the daughter of Sir Adam de Crosebi.

Robert II's Children

Robert and Euphemia had three known children:

• Robert (who passed away in 1191)
• William (who passed away in 1212)
• Bernard

Robert II was buried at Gisborough Priory in Yorkshire, England. This was a monastery that his father, Robert I, had helped to start. Since his oldest son, Robert, died before him, his second son, William, became the next Lord of Annandale.

Robert III de Brus

Robert III de Brus was the oldest son of Robert II de Brus. He was active in the 1100s and passed away around 1191.

Why Robert III Did Not Inherit

Because Robert III died before his father, he did not become the Lord of Annandale. Instead, his younger brother, William, inherited the title. In 1183, Robert III married Isabella Mac William. She was the daughter of King William I of Scotland. Robert III and Isabella did not have any children.