William Borthwick, 4th Lord Borthwick facts for kids
William Borthwick, the 4th Lord Borthwick, was an important Scottish nobleman. He lived a long time ago, in the 1500s. He became a leader in Scotland in 1503 after his father, William Borthwick, 3rd Lord Borthwick, passed away.
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Who Was William Borthwick?
Lord Borthwick inherited a large building in Edinburgh's main street, known as the High Street. This building was divided into several parts. One part was rented by a merchant named James Hommyll. In November 1504, four African people, sometimes called the "More lasses," stayed with Hommyll in this building.
Important Roles and Events
After the big battle of Flodden in 1513, Lord Borthwick was given a very important job. A group of important advisors to the king, called the Privy Council of Scotland, put him in charge of Stirling Castle. They ordered the castle to be made very strong and safe.
Protecting the Young King
Lord Borthwick's most important task at Stirling Castle was to protect the young king, James V of Scotland. The king was just a baby at the time, so keeping him safe was a huge responsibility.
Lord Borthwick was also involved in important agreements with other countries. His special seal, which was like his signature, can be seen on a treaty (an official agreement) signed with England on October 7, 1517.
Family Life
In 1491, Lord Borthwick married Margaret Hay. She was the oldest daughter of John Hay, 1st Lord Hay of Yester. William and Margaret had several children:
- Thomas, who was known as the Master of Borthwick. He passed away in 1528 and did not have any children.
- John Borthwick, 5th Lord Borthwick. He became the next Lord Borthwick after his father. He was also an important advisor to the king and did not agree with the Scottish Reformation, which was a time of big changes in Scotland's religion.
- Catherine, their oldest daughter. She married Sir James Crichton of Frendraught.
- Jonette. In 1535, she married Sir Alexander Lauder of Haltoun. He was later killed at the battle of Pinkie.
- Margaret. She married Sir John Borthwick of Cineray.
