William Livingstone of Kilsyth facts for kids

Sir William Livingstone of Kilsyth (died 1627) was an important Scottish landowner and a helper at the royal court. He was known for staying in touch with King James VI and I, who was also King of England.

William Livingstone was the son of William Livingstone of Kilsyth and Christian Graham. His family had owned land in the Kilsyth area of Scotland for a long time.

Working with the King's Court

Sir William Livingstone was a key contact for people in Scotland who wanted to reach King James's court in London. He often wrote letters to important people there, like Ludovic Stewart, 2nd Duke of Lennox. The Duke of Lennox was a very powerful person who could help people get jobs or favors from the King. Sir William also corresponded with Margaret Hartsyde, who was a Scottish helper for Anne of Denmark, the Queen. Margaret Hartsyde was in charge of the Queen's jewels.

Sir William helped the Duke of Lennox with his business in Scotland. This meant he was like a representative for the Duke, helping to manage his affairs and connections.

Helping Others at Court

Many people wanted jobs or positions at the King's court. They would ask the Duke of Lennox for help, hoping he could get their friends or family members a place. However, it was becoming harder to get Scottish people into the King's household.

The Duke of Lennox once wrote to Sir William Livingstone about a man named Napier from Merchiston Castle. Sir William had asked the Duke to find Napier a job in the King's private rooms. The Duke explained that even though the King had promised Napier a spot, it was hard because English people often got the jobs instead. He said it was difficult for a "stranger" (meaning a Scot) to get a job if an English person also wanted it, because many English people thought there were already too many Scots at court.

Queen Anne's Jewel

Margaret Hartsyde, the Queen's helper, once wrote to Sir William Livingstone because she was surprised he had left the court. Queen Anne had been expecting him to deliver a special jewel to her. Margaret told the Queen that Sir William had been waiting for the right moment to give her the jewel in person. Margaret then asked Sir William to send the jewel to the Queen as soon as he could.

Family Life

Sir William Livingstone was married twice.

First Marriage

His first wife was Antoinette de Bord. They had a son named William Livingstone of Darnchester. This son later married his cousin, Anna Fleming.

Second Marriage

Sir William's second wife was Margaret Houston. One of their children was James Livingstone, 1st Viscount Kilsyth, who became an important person later on.

Sir William Livingstone passed away in 1627.