Simon Fraser, 1st Laird of Lovat facts for kids
Simon Fraser, 1st Laird of Lovat was an important leader in Scottish history. He was the very first chief of the Clan Fraser of Lovat, a famous Scottish clan from the Scottish Highlands. Simon Fraser lived a long time ago, in the 1300s. He was a brave fighter and sadly died in 1333 during a big battle called the Battle of Halidon Hill, which was part of the Second War of Scottish Independence.
Early Life and Family
Simon Fraser was the second son of Sir Andrew Fraser, who passed away in 1308. His older brother was Alexander Fraser of Touchfraser and Cowie. Alexander became the ancestor of another important family, the Clan Fraser in the Scottish Lowlands.
Simon's father, Sir Andrew Fraser, was a cousin of another famous person named Simon Fraser (died 1306). This cousin was known as the Patriot because he fought bravely for Scotland. He was sadly executed by the English for his actions.
While his father owned lands in a place called Caithness, Simon Fraser was the first in his family to own land in the area of Inverness. This is where he gained control of the important estate of Lovat.
Fighting for Scotland's Freedom
Simon Fraser first appears in historical records in 1308. This was when he joined forces with Robert the Bruce, who later became King Robert I of Scotland. Together, they fought at the Battle of Inverurie and won against John Comyn, Earl of Buchan.
King Robert I of Scotland even gave a special document, called a charter, to "Sir Alexander Fraser, knight and his brother, Simon Fraser." This shows how important Simon and his brother were.
Simon Fraser continued to support Robert the Bruce. He was part of the Scottish victory over the English at the famous Battle of Bannockburn in 1314. This was a huge win for Scotland's independence.
Later, in 1332, Simon fought to support Domhnall II, Earl of Mar against Edward Balliol at the Battle of Dupplin Moor. Sadly, his brother, Alexander Fraser, was killed in this battle. Simon Fraser himself died fighting against the English at the Battle of Halidon Hill in 1333. He was a true warrior who fought for Scotland's freedom.
Simon's Family
Simon Fraser married a woman named Margaret. She was the daughter of John, Earl of Orkney and Caithness. When Magnus, Earl of Orkney and Caithness, died, Simon Fraser tried to claim the earldom for himself through his wife. However, he wasn't successful in this claim.
Even though he didn't get the earldom, Simon Fraser did successfully get the property of Lovat. He got this land through his wife's mother, who was the daughter of Graham of Lovat.
Simon Fraser and his wife Margaret had four children:
- Simon Fraser, who became the 2nd Laird of Lovat.
- Hugh Fraser, who became the 3rd Laird of Lovat.
- James Fraser, who was made a knight by Robert III of Scotland. He was later killed during the Anglo-Scottish Wars.
- Janet Fraser, about whom not much is known.
See also
