Walter of Faslane, Earl of Lennox facts for kids

Baltar mac Amlaimh, also known as Walter of Faslane, was an important leader in Scotland during the 1300s. He was like the main ruler, or de facto Mormaer, of a region called Lennox. He held this power through his wife, Margaret, from 1365 to 1385.

A Mormaer was a powerful lord in early Scotland, similar to an Earl. Baltar was not born a Mormaer himself, but he became one through his marriage.

Baltar's Family Background

Baltar was part of a very old and important family. He was the great-grandson of a man named Amlaibh. He was also the grandson of Mormaer Ailín II, who was a previous Mormaer of Lennox.

After Ailín II died, his family group, or clan, grew. The ten brothers of Mormaer Maol Domhnaich were given land. This helped Baltar's family become strong and influential in the area.

How Baltar Became a Ruler

Baltar's family gained power because he was allowed to marry Margaret. Margaret was the daughter of the current Mormaer, Domhnall. When Domhnall died in 1365, Margaret became the official Mormaer. However, Baltar was the one who actually ruled alongside her.

Mormaer Domhnall had hoped that this marriage would lead to his grandson, Baltar and Margaret's son, becoming the next ruler. It seems Baltar was also expected to rule for a time. Baltar and Margaret had a son named Donnchad. Donnchad was likely a young man when his parents took over the rule of Lennox.

Over time, the relationship between Baltar and his son Donnchad became difficult. It seems Donnchad grew impatient and wanted to take over the rule himself.

Changes in Power

In the summer of 1384, King Robert II made things official. He issued two special documents, called charters, that formally gave the rule of Lennox to Baltar. This meant Baltar was now the official Mormaer, not just the de facto ruler.

However, just one year later, Baltar and Margaret gave up their rule. They handed the Mormaerdom over to their eldest son, Donnchadh. This change might have happened because of new ideas from the King's court. John of Carrick, who would later become King Robert III, was gaining more influence at the time.

Later, in 1388, Baltar and Margaret were given back control of the Lennox region. They were allowed to manage it for the rest of their lives. But Donnchadh still kept the official title of Mormaer. Donnchadh himself was kept in a castle on an island called Inchmurrin in Loch Lomond.

See also

• Faslane Castle, Shandon Castle, and St Michael's Chapel, Faslane was once the home of Walter de Faslane.