Sir David Cunningham, 1st Baronet, of Robertland facts for kids

Sir David Cunningham, 1st Baronet of Robertland was an important landowner in Scotland. He was born to David Cunningham of Robertland and Margaret Fleming. His family had a history of serving the Scottish Crown. His grandfather, also named David Cunningham, was a Master of Work for King James VI of Scotland. This job was like being in charge of royal buildings and projects. The family home, Robertland, is in Scotland, near a town called Stewarton. It's now part of East Ayrshire.

A Special Outfit for a King's Visit

What Was the Occasion?

Sir David Cunningham had an older cousin, also named Sir David Cunningham, who lived at Auchenharvie. They wrote letters to each other, and some of these letters are still kept safe today in the National Archives of Scotland.

One interesting letter from 1633 talks about clothes! King Charles I was visiting Edinburgh for his coronation in Scotland. Sir David of Auchenharvie was in London and bought special clothes for Robertland to wear at this big event.

Fashion from the 1600s

The clothes were very fancy, following the styles of the King's own tailor. On May 1, 1633, his cousin wrote to him about the outfits. He described a "very rich cloth of silver doublet" with "black satin breeches and satin cloak." This was for important days.

He also mentioned a "willow colour" satin suit with silver lace. To complete the look, there were stockings, garters, and hat bands. His cousin warned him that these fashionable items would be "dear enough," meaning quite expensive!

Family and Titles

Sir David's Marriage

In 1637, David Cunningham married Elizabeth Jousie. Elizabeth was the daughter of Robert Jousie, a wealthy textile merchant from Edinburgh. He was also a financier for the royal family.

Elizabeth was also the widow of a goldsmith named James Heriot. James was the brother of the famous goldsmith George Heriot.

Becoming a Baronet

King Charles I gave David Cunningham a special title. On November 25, 1630, he made him a Baronet of Nova Scotia. This was done through official documents called Letters Patent. This title could be passed down to his male heirs.

A Gift from a Friend

In 1639, a friend named Robert Johnstone, who was a lawyer, left a gift for Sir David. Robert Johnstone was also a friend of George Heriot. He had been in charge of Robert Jousie's will. He gave Sir David a Portuguese ducat, which was a type of gold coin. He also gave a diamond ring for Elizabeth Jousie's daughter.