William Anstruther facts for kids
Sir William Anstruther (died 1711) was an important Scottish judge and politician. He came from a very old Scottish family. He was known for his work in the Scottish Parliament and as a judge. He also wrote a book of essays.
Biography
Sir William Anstruther was born into a very old Scottish family. His father, Sir Philip Anstruther, supported the King during the English Civil War. Sir Philip was even captured in a big battle and lost his lands for a while. But King Charles II later gave his lands back to him.
Political Career
Sir William became a representative for the area of Fife in the Scottish Parliament in 1681. He strongly disagreed with the Duke of York, who was a powerful leader in Scotland at the time. The Duke later became King James VII of Scotland. Sir William was elected again in 1689 and stayed in Parliament until Scotland and England joined together in 1707.
Supporting the New King
In 1688, there was a big change in power called the Glorious Revolution. Sir William supported the Prince of Orange, who became King William III. Because of his support, Sir William was given important jobs. He became a judge, known as a Lord of Session, in 1689. He also became a member of the Privy Council of Scotland, which was a group of advisors to the King.
In 1694, he was given the special title of Baronet of Nova Scotia. Later, in 1704, he became another type of judge called a Lord of Justiciary. He also received a special document from the King that gave him control over certain lands and jobs forever. These included the areas of Anstruther and Ardross. He was also given the job of carver and master of the household to the Queen. Sir William strongly supported the idea of Scotland and England joining together. His name often appeared in lists of votes during the time this big decision was being made in the Scottish Parliament.
Works
Sir William Anstruther wrote a book of essays called Essays, Moral and Divine. It was published in 1701 and also included some poems. It is said that his friends thought the book was not very good. They even asked him not to publish it. After Sir William died in 1711, his son reportedly bought up all the copies he could find. He did this to stop people from reading the book.
The book contained essays on these topics:
- Against Atheism (about believing in God)
- Of Providence (about God's care for the world)
- Of Learning and Religion (about education and faith)
- Of Trifling Studies, Stage Plays, and Romances (about less serious topics like plays and stories)
- Of the Incarnation of Jesus Christ and the Redemption of Mankind (about religious beliefs)
Private Life
Sir William Anstruther bought a large piece of land called the Elie estate in Fife. In 1687, he built a grand house there called Elie House.
Sir William Anstruther was married to Lady Helen Hamilton. They had one son, who was named Sir John Anstruther, 1st Baronet, of Anstruther.
