William Ross, 10th Lord Ross facts for kids
William Ross, 10th Lord Ross of Halkhead, was an important Scottish nobleman who lived in the 1600s. He became a Lord, which is a special title, in 1648. He was involved in Scottish politics and helped lead his local area.
Who Was William Ross?
William Ross was born into a noble family in Scotland. He was the second son of James Ross, 4th Lord Ross. His family, the Rosses of Halkhead, lived in a place called Renfrewshire. They were a "Lowland" family, meaning they lived in the southern, flatter parts of Scotland. They were not related to the "Highland" Ross families or the Earls of Ross.
William became the 10th Lord Ross after his great-nephew, also named William, passed away in 1648. This meant he inherited the title and responsibilities of his family.
His Life and Work
William Ross had an active public life. In 1633, King Charles I made him a knight. This meant he was given the title "Sir William Ross." Before he became a Lord, people knew him as Sir William Ross of Muriston or Torphin.
He played a role in local government and military efforts.
- From 1643 to 1644, he was part of the Committee of War for Renfrewshire. This group helped manage military matters in the area.
- In 1646, he became the Sheriff of Renfrewshire. A sheriff was like a chief law enforcement officer and judge for the region.
- In 1648 and 1649, he continued to serve on the Committee of War and was a Colonel for both Ayrshire and Renfrewshire.
William Ross also faced political challenges. In 1654, during the time of Oliver Cromwell's rule, he was fined a large amount of money. This fine was part of a special law called the "Act of Grace." However, the amount he had to pay was later made much smaller.
His Family Life
William Ross was married twice. His first wife was Elizabeth, who was the daughter of Sir Patrick Houston. She was also the widow of John Whitefoord. Through this marriage, William gained land in Muriston.
His second wife was Margaret, the oldest daughter of Sir James Forrester. William and Margaret had at least one son together named George. When William Ross passed away in 1656, his son George inherited his title and became the 11th Lord Ross.
