Walter de Berkeley facts for kids
Sir Walter de Berkley was an important Scottish noble who lived during the late 1200s and early 1300s. He was known as the 8th person in his family to hold the lands of Gartly in Scotland. Walter played a key role in the exciting and challenging times when Scotland was fighting for its independence from England.
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Sir Walter de Berkley: A Scottish Knight
Walter was the son of John de Berkley, who was the 7th of Gartly. He grew up during a period of great change and conflict in Scotland. Walter became a strong supporter of Robert de Brus, who would later become the famous King Robert I of Scotland.
Facing the English King
During the late 1200s, King Edward I of England tried to take control of Scotland. Many Scottish nobles, including Walter de Berkley, had to make difficult choices.
- In 1296, Walter had to promise his loyalty to King Edward I at a place called Berwick. This was a common practice when a new king took power or invaded.
- Walter, along with another important Scottish leader named John Comyn, bravely resisted King Edward's invasion. They fought for a long time, but eventually, they had to surrender in 1304.
- After surrendering, Walter again swore loyalty to King Edward I in 1304 at St Andrews.
- King Edward I even appointed Walter as the Sheriff of Banff in 1305. This meant Walter was in charge of law and order in that area for the English king.
Fighting for Scottish Freedom
Even though he had sworn loyalty to the English king, Walter de Berkley's true loyalty was to Scotland. He soon joined forces with Robert de Brus (Robert the Bruce).
- In 1307, Walter played an important part in Robert the Bruce's military campaigns in northern Scotland. These campaigns were crucial for Robert the Bruce to gain control and push back the English.
- Walter also witnessed a significant event in 1308. He was there when William, Earl of Ross submitted to King Robert I. This was a big step in uniting Scotland under Robert the Bruce's rule.
Walter's Family
Walter de Berkley had at least one known child:
- Andrew de Berkley, who became the 9th of Gartly after his father.
