Walter Pringle, Lord Newhall facts for kids
Sir Walter Pringle, Lord Newhall (born around 1664–1736) was an important Scottish lawyer and judge. He played a big role in the legal system of Scotland during his time.
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Walter Pringle's Early Life
Walter Pringle was the second son of Sir Robert Pringle, 1st Baronet of Stitchel. His mother was Margaret, whose father was John Hope, Lord Craighall. A famous relative was Walter Pringle of Greenknowe, who was a Covenanter (a group in Scotland who supported a certain type of church government).
Walter came from a very large family. He was one of nineteen children! Thirteen of his brothers and sisters lived past infancy. Two of his brothers, Thomas and Robert, also became well-known. Thomas was important in law, and Robert was important in politics.
Becoming a Judge
Walter Pringle was born around 1664. He later inherited the family land called Lochton in Berwickshire. On December 10, 1687, he became an "advocate." An advocate is like a lawyer who speaks for people in court. Walter became one of the best advocates in Scotland.
After another judge named Sir Gilbert Elliot, 1st Baronet passed away in 1718, Walter Pringle was chosen to take his place. On June 6, 1718, he officially became a judge. He was given the special title of Lord Newhall. At the same time, he was also knighted, which means he was given the title "Sir." He also became a lord of justiciary, which is a judge in a high criminal court.
His Passing and Legacy
Sir Walter Pringle passed away on December 14, 1736. His funeral was a very special event. His fellow judges wore their official robes to attend, showing their respect.
The group of lawyers he belonged to, called the Faculty of Advocates, wrote a special message praising him. This message was written by Sir Robert Dundas of Arniston. Walter Pringle's niece, Katherine, was married to a poet named William Hamilton of Bangour. The poet even wrote a poem in memory of Sir Walter.
Walter Pringle's Family
Sir Walter Pringle married a daughter of the Johnston family from Hilton. They had children together. However, his direct family line ended after three generations. His estate, Lochton, then went to Sir John Pringle of Stitchel.
