Walter Dundas facts for kids

Walter Dundas (who passed away in 1636) was an important Scottish landowner. He also served at the king's court. He was the oldest son of George Dundas and Margaret Boswell. Walter first owned land at Over Newliston. Later, he inherited the grand Dundas Castle.

A Life at Court

Walter Dundas went to the University of St Andrews in the 1570s. He was very smart. He could read and write in Latin, French, and Scots.

He became a knight in August 1594. This happened at Stirling Castle. It was during a big party for the baptism of Prince Henry.

King James VI often invited Walter to royal events. For example, he was invited to the baptism of Prince Charles in December 1600. This event took place at Holyrood House. The king even asked him to bring special foods like venison and capons.

One time, Walter Dundas was at Linlithgow Palace. He was using a private staircase in the dark. He accidentally bumped into someone without knowing who it was. He later told King James VI about it. The king realized it was his wife, Queen Anne of Denmark. He then told Walter not to use that staircase again!

Improving the Dundas Estate

Walter Dundas inherited the Dundas estate in 1598. Over many years, he worked hard to make it better. He wanted to improve it both for money and for its beauty.

He built a new living area next to the old medieval tower. He also added a beautiful walled garden. This garden had special corner buildings. It also featured a fountain and a sundial in the middle.

Walter was also a smart farmer. He tried new ways to farm, like creating enclosed fields. He also found limestone on his land. He built special ovens called lime kilns. These kilns processed the limestone. He used it to make his crops grow better. He also sold it to other landowners nearby.

Public Service and Beliefs

Walter Dundas often represented his area, Linlithgowshire (now West Lothian), in the Scottish parliament. He served on many important groups in parliament. He also worked as the sheriff for the county.

He seemed to prefer a type of church called Presbyterianism. This was different from another type called Episcopacy. In 1605, he helped six ministers. They were put in Blackness Castle for treason. He gave them money to support them.

In 1621, he voted against some rules called the Five Articles of Perth. These rules were very controversial. This showed his strong beliefs.

Walter Dundas passed away in January 1636. He had a lot of money and owned very little to others. He had over £21,000 Scots, including £5,000 in cash.

Marriages and Family

Walter Dundas was married twice.

His first wife was Janet Oliphant. She was the daughter of Alexander Oliphant of Kellie. Their children included:

• Elizabeth Dundas, who married James Dundas of Newliston
• Margaret Dundas, who married William Scharpe of Pitleckie
• Isobel Dundas, who married John Sandilands, Lord Torphichen

His second wife was Anne Monteith. Their children included:

• George Dundas of Dundas
• William Dundas
• Walter Dundas
• Alexander Dundas
• Marion Dundas