William Hay, 4th Earl of Kinnoull facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
The Earl of Kinnoull
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Coat of arms of the Earls of Kinnoull
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| Died | 28 March 1677 |
| Nationality | Scottish |
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William Hay, 4th Earl of Kinnoull (who died on March 28, 1677) was an important Scottish noble and a brave soldier. He was very loyal to King Charles I. He even managed to escape from Edinburgh Castle not just once, but twice!
Early Life and Family
William Hay was the second son of George Hay, 2nd Earl of Kinnoull and Ann Douglas. His older brother, George, became the third Earl of Kinnoull in 1644. William's exact birth date is not known.
Fighting for the King
Like his brother, William was a strong supporter of King Charles I. He joined forces with a famous Scottish general named James Graham, 1st Marquess of Montrose. Montrose's nephew mentioned William Hay traveling with over fifty men to join Montrose in 1648.
William became the 4th Earl of Kinnoull after his older brother George passed away. This happened in late 1649 or early 1650. In March 1650, William arrived in Orkney with new troops from Europe. These soldiers were there to help the King's side.
Escapes and Battles
William Hay was with Montrose after a defeat at the Battle of Carbisdale in April 1650. Some thought he might have died in the mountains because he was so tired and hungry. But William survived!
He continued to fight for Montrose's cause even after Montrose was executed in May 1650. In December 1653, William was captured near Glamis and taken to Edinburgh Castle as a prisoner. But he was very clever and managed to escape in May 1654!
He then joined forces with James Graham, 2nd Marquess of Montrose, who was the son of the first Montrose. William fought with him in a battle at the Wood of Methven in June 1654. On November 23, William was captured again and sent back to Edinburgh Castle. But guess what? He escaped a second time!
Later Life and Family
In 1660, William inherited the ownership of Barbados from his cousin, James Hay, 2nd Earl of Carlisle. However, he sold Barbados to the Crown (the King) in 1661. In return, he received a regular payment called a pension.
William Hay was married twice. His first wife was Lady Mary Brudenell, who passed away in 1665. His second wife was Lady Catherine Cecil.
William and Catherine had two sons:
- George Hay, 5th Earl of Kinnoull (died 1687)
- William Hay, 6th Earl of Kinnoull (died May 10, 1709)
William Hay, 4th Earl of Kinnoull, passed away on March 28, 1677. He was buried in May at Waltham Abbey Church in Essex, England.
