Sir Francis Ruthven, 1st Baronet facts for kids
Sir Francis Ruthven, 1st Baronet (born around 1604 – died around 1688) was a Scottish soldier. He was known for his military career in the Swedish Army and later became a Baronet in Scotland. A Baronet is a special title, like a knight, that can be passed down in a family, but it's not a noble title like a Duke or Earl.
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Early Life and Family Background
Francis Ruthven was the son of Sir John Ruthven, who was also a general, and his mother was Barbara Leslie. He grew up in a family with a strong military background.
Joining the Swedish Army
Following in his father's footsteps, Francis Ruthven joined the Swedish Army when he was quite young. In 1623, he started as an ensign, which is a junior officer rank, in a regiment led by Herman Wrangel.
Rising Through the Ranks
Ruthven quickly gained experience and moved up in the army.
- In 1626, he was promoted to captain in a different regiment.
- Later that same year, he moved to a regiment led by his great-uncle, Patrick Ruthven, 1st Earl of Forth.
- By 1627, he was a captain in the Kalmar regiment.
- In June 1631, he became a colonel, a very important leadership position.
Governor of Memell
In 1633, during a time when Swedish forces occupied the city of Memell (now in Lithuania), Francis Ruthven was appointed its Governor. This shows he was trusted with significant responsibility. He left the Swedish Army in 1639.
Return to Scotland and Baronet Title
Francis Ruthven was a Cavalier, meaning he supported the King during the English Civil War. It's thought he returned to Scotland around the time of the war, but there are no records of him fighting in it.
Becoming a Baronet
On July 11, 1666, King Charles II created him a baronet, of Redcastle. This special title was part of the Baronetage of Nova Scotia, a system created to help fund Scottish settlements in Canada.
End of the Title
Sir Francis Ruthven did not have any sons. Because of this, his Baronet title ended when he died around 1688.
Family and Legacy
Sir Francis Ruthven married a woman named Elizabeth. She was the second daughter of Thomas Ruthven, 1st Lord Ruthven of Freeland.
His Daughter, Isobel
Francis and Elizabeth had one daughter named Isobel. After her grandfather's death, Isobel inherited his estate and title, becoming the 4th Lady Ruthven of Freeland.
