William Murray, 2nd Earl of Tullibardine facts for kids
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William Murray, 2nd Earl of Tullibardine (around 1574–1626) was an important Scottish nobleman. He owned a lot of land and worked closely with the king.
William was the son of John Murray, 1st Earl of Tullibardine and Catherine Drummond. His mother's father was David, 2nd Lord Drummond.
Contents
Early Life and Travels
Learning and Royal Connections
In 1594, William Murray traveled outside Scotland to learn new languages. He first went to London, England. He traveled with James Drummond of Innerpeffray and William Drummond. They had a special document, called a passport, from the English ambassador, Robert Bowes.
Later, in August 1601, King James VI made William Murray and James Drummond of Inchaffray part of his personal staff. This meant they worked directly for the king in his private rooms.
Coming to London
When King James VI of Scotland also became King James I of England in 1603, this event was called the Union of Crowns. William Murray moved to London with the king.
A famous lady named Lady Anne Clifford wrote about William Murray in July 1603. She said that William and the Master of Orkney were very interested in a lady named Mrs. Cary. They visited her and Lady Anne at Norbury, where they were staying because of an illness. George Murray, who was also part of the King's personal staff, came with them.
Life at Court and Challenges
Helping a Friend Escape
In 1608, William Murray was involved in a plan to help the Earl of Atholl escape from Edinburgh Castle. He worked with his brother-in-law, John Grant of Freuchie, and Mr. James Stewart.
A Fight in Church
In 1616, William Murray was given permission to arrest Robert Crichton of Cluny. William's men found Robert Crichton in St Cuthbert's in Edinburgh. A fight broke out inside the church during the arrest.
King James's Special Request
On March 14, 1617, King James wrote to William Murray from Whitehall Palace in London. The king was planning a visit to Scotland and asked for William's help.
King James wanted special birds sent to him along his journey. He asked for capercaillies and ptarmigans. These birds were considered rare and valuable Scottish food. He wanted them sent to Durham and other places where he would stop on his way to Berwick-upon-Tweed.
Family Life
Marriages and Children
William Murray married his first wife, Cecilia Wemyss, in 1599. She was the daughter of Sir John Wemyss. Some people believe that King James wrote a poem, Nocht Orientall Christall Streemes, for Cecilia.
In 1604, William married his second wife, Dorothea Stewart. She was the daughter of John Stewart, 5th Earl of Atholl and Marie Ruthven.
William and Dorothea had two children:
- Mary Murray, who married Sir John Moncrieffe of Moncrieffe.
- John Murray (who passed away in 1642) became the Earl of Tullibardine in 1626. He also became the Earl of Atholl in 1629.
