Thomas Kennedy of Culzean facts for kids
Thomas Kennedy of Culzean (died 1602) was an important Scottish landowner. He was involved in a long-standing family dispute and was sadly murdered.
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Who Was Thomas Kennedy?
Thomas Kennedy was the son of Margaret Kennedy, Countess of Cassilis and Gilbert Kennedy, 3rd Earl of Cassilis. He married Elizabeth McGill. She had previously been married to Robert Logan of Restalrig.
In October 1580, Thomas Kennedy became a gentleman of the privy chamber for King James VI of Scotland. This was a special role close to the king. He was made a knight in May 1590. This happened at the special event when Anne of Denmark was crowned queen.
The Kennedy Family Feud
Thomas Kennedy was caught up in a big family disagreement. This was a feud between two branches of the Kennedy family: the Cassilis Kennedys and the Bargany Kennedys.
Thomas Kennedy was the "Tutor of Cassilis." This meant he managed the lands and money for his nephew, John Kennedy, 5th Earl of Cassilis.
In December 1601, there was a fight between these two family groups. Men loyal to the Earl of Cassilis badly hurt the Laird of Bargany. This happened as Bargany was going home from the town of Ayr.
Thomas Kennedy's Death
On May 11, 1602, Thomas Kennedy was killed. He was murdered by Thomas Kennedy of Drummurchie. This man was the younger brother of the Laird of Bargany. The murder happened near Ayr, at a place called Saint Leonard's Chapel.
After his death, Thomas Kennedy's body was taken to Greenan Castle. He was later buried in the town of Maybole. Years later, Thomas Kennedy's son-in-law, James Mure of Auchindrayne, was punished for the murder.
Thomas Kennedy's Portrait
There is a painting of Thomas Kennedy from 1592. It shows him when he was 43 years old. Many people believe the artist was Adrian Vanson, who worked in Edinburgh.
This portrait is now on display at Culzean Castle. The castle is cared for by the National Trust for Scotland. The painting shows his family crest and a motto. The motto says "AVISE A LA FIN," which means "Consider the end."
- See the portrait of Sir Thomas Kennedy
