William Seton, 1st Lord Seton facts for kids

Quick facts for kids William Seton
The family crest of William Seton, 1st Lord Seton.
Died	1410
Spouse(s)	Janet Fleming
Father	Alan de Wyntoun
Mother	Margaret Seton

William Seton (who died in 1410) was an important Scottish noble from the 1300s and early 1400s. He was born William de Wyntoun, but later took the name Seton.

William Seton's Early Life and Rise

William was the oldest son of Alan de Wyntoun and Margaret Seton. His mother, Margaret, was the heiress of the Seton family. This meant she would inherit their lands and titles. William decided to use his mother's family name, Seton. He also adopted their family crest.

In 1371, William became the first Lord Seton. This was a special title given to him by the King. He took over his mother's family estates.

A Special Marriage Plan

In 1408, William Seton made an important deal. He bought the "wardship" of a young noblewoman named Elizabeth Gordon. Wardship meant he became responsible for her and her property. He bought this right from Walter de Haliburton. The price was a "liferent" of 50 "merks" from the lands of Tranent. A liferent meant Walter would receive money from the land for the rest of his life. A merk was an old Scottish coin.

Elizabeth Gordon was a very important heiress. She was supposed to marry William's oldest son, John. However, John decided not to marry her. So, Elizabeth was then promised to William's younger son, Alexander.

Alexander's Capture and Release

Around this time, Alexander had been captured by the English. He was traveling to France on a ship called Maryenknyght. Prince James of Scotland was also on the ship and was captured too. After some time, Alexander was released by the English. He was then able to marry Elizabeth Gordon.

William Seton's Family

William Seton married Janet, who was the daughter of David Fleming of Biggar. They had several children together.

William's Children

• John Seton, who became the 2nd Lord Seton. He married Katherine, the daughter of William St Clair. They had children.
• Alexander Seton. He married Elizabeth Gordon, the important heiress. They also had children.
• Margaret
• Marion
• Jean
• Catherine