William Hamilton of Sanquhar facts for kids

Sir William Hamilton of Sanquhar lived from about 1510 to 1570. He was an important person in Scotland's history. He worked for King James V as his 'pursemaster'. This meant he managed the King's money. Later, he became the Captain of Edinburgh Castle. This was during the time when Regent Arran was ruling Scotland.

William Hamilton was the son of another William Hamilton. His mother was Katherine Kennedy. She was the daughter of David Kennedy, 1st Earl of Cassilis. Sir William was first known as Hamilton of MacNaristoun. He became King James V's pursemaster in September 1524.

Sir William Hamilton's Life

Early Life and Important Roles

Sir William was a very busy man. He even traveled to France as a diplomat. In 1528, he brought back important letters. These letters were from Francis I of France. They showed that France remembered an old agreement. This was the 1517 Treaty of Rouen. France promised to help Scotland. They would try to keep the Duke of Albany from returning to Scotland. They also wanted him to give up Dunbar Castle.

Captain of Edinburgh Castle

Sir William became the Captain of Edinburgh Castle. This happened on October 1, 1548. It was a very important job. In April 1549, he received 24 halberds for the castle. These were long weapons used by soldiers. His yearly pay for being Captain was about £134 Scots. This was a good amount of money back then.

His Home and Gardens

Sir William owned a place called Newton Castle near Ayr. In 1559, a list was made of his furniture there. This list is special because it describes the furniture. It mentions cupboards and a door. These were made in a "courtly manner." This means they were fancy and stylish. The furniture also had "raised and carved work." This was the newest and most interesting style in Scotland.

Another list from 1588 shows that some of this furniture was still at the castle. Sir William's gardens were also lovely. They had hawthorn hedges. There were also gooseberry and currant bushes. You could find roses, apple trees, and plum trees. Cherry trees also grew there. Parts of the garden were used for growing kale and herbs.

Family and Marriage

Sir William Hamilton married a woman named Jean Campbell. They had children together.

His Children

• Isobel Hamilton (died 1604): She married George Seton, 7th Lord Seton in 1550. Sir William paid a large sum of £2,000 for this marriage. The wedding was a big celebration. It took place at Edinburgh Castle. Regent Arran paid for the feast on August 12, 1550. Richard Maitland wrote that Sir William helped Lord Seton. He helped him rebuild Seton Palace. The English army had damaged it. This happened when they burnt Edinburgh in May 1544.
• William Hamilton of Glenmoor: In December 1551, Regent Arran gave him money. It was a good amount of £53 Scots. This money was for his clothes.