Walter I, Prior of St Andrews facts for kids

Walter I (died around 1199) was an important church leader in Scotland during the 12th century. He belonged to a group of religious people called the Augustinians, who followed a strict set of rules.

Becoming a Church Leader

Walter was a canon at St Andrews Cathedral Priory in Fife. A canon is a type of priest who lives in a community and follows certain rules. He was also the precentor of the cathedral. A precentor was in charge of the music and singing during church services.

In 1160, Walter became the Prior of St Andrews. A prior is the head of a priory, which is a type of monastery. This was a very important role in the church at that time.

How Long Did He Serve?

A writer named Walter Bower is our main source of information about Walter I. Bower wrote that Walter served as prior for 24 years. He said Walter resigned because he was not well.

However, other records suggest that Walter I was prior for much longer, possibly 34 years. These records show him as prior from 1160 until 1195. This means Bower's number might have been a mistake.

Later Years and Return to Office

After 1195, Gilbert I took over as Prior of St Andrews. But Gilbert died just a few years later, either in late 1198 or early 1199.

Because of this, Walter I briefly returned to his old job as prior. He died "within the same year," according to Bower, likely in 1199. After Walter's final time as prior, a person named Thomas became the new Prior of St Andrews.

During Walter's time as prior, several bishops led the church in the area. These included bishops Ernald, Richard, John the Scot, Hugh, and Roger de Beaumont.