William Bowes (ambassador) facts for kids

Sir William Bowes (died 1611) was an important English official. He worked as an ambassador to Scotland, which means he represented Queen Elizabeth I in another country. He also helped manage the border region as a Deputy Warden and was in charge of money for the town of Berwick-upon-Tweed. William was also a Member of Parliament for Westmorland, helping to make laws for England.

William was the oldest son of George Bowes of Streatlam and Dorothy Mallory. When his father passed away in 1580, William took over the family's lands. In 1593, he was chosen to be a Member of Parliament for Westmorland.

Sir William Bowes: A Royal Diplomat

William Bowes played a key role in connecting England and Scotland. He followed in the footsteps of his uncle, Robert Bowes, who had also been an ambassador.

Working for the Queen

In May 1597, William Bowes traveled to Edinburgh, Scotland. There, he met James VI of Scotland, the Scottish King, in the beautiful garden of Holyrood Palace. His uncle, Robert Bowes, introduced him, and William gave a speech to the King.

Later, they had another meeting with King James VI. They talked about a request from Queen Elizabeth. She wanted two Scottish leaders, Sir Robert Ker and Sir Walter Scott, to be sent to London. This was because they had broken rules along the border between England and Scotland. William Bowes reminded them of past cases where people were sent across the border to face justice.

Border Discussions

In June 1597, William was sent to Scotland again with his uncle, Robert Bowes. They discussed problems and incidents happening along the border. They met King James VI first at Linlithgow Palace and then in the garden of Falkland Palace. From 1598 to 1603, William was put in charge of the money for the town of Berwick-upon-Tweed.

William went back to Scotland in January 1598. While waiting to meet the King, he was visited by important Scottish officials. The next day, he was brought into the King's room at Holyrood Palace, where many people were present.

After his uncle Robert Bowes died in April 1598, William Bowes became the Treasurer of Berwick. This meant he was responsible for paying the soldiers stationed along the Scottish borders.

Later Missions and Royal Travel

In June 1599, William became worried about an English gentleman named Edmund Ashfield who was visiting Scotland. William helped to secretly bring Ashfield back to England. This made an angry crowd gather outside his home in Edinburgh.

In August 1604, William Bowes traveled with Prince Charles (who would later become King Charles I). They were traveling from Scotland towards London. They stayed at various homes along the way, including one arranged by the Mayor of Leicester. Eventually, King James VI and Anne of Denmark joined them on their journey.

Family Life

Around the year 1600, William Bowes married Isabel Wray. She was the daughter of a well-known English judge, Sir Christopher Wray.