William Stewart of Grandtully facts for kids
William Stewart of Grandtully (1567–1646) was a Scottish landowner and a trusted helper to the king. He lived during a time when Scotland and England were separate kingdoms but would soon join under one ruler.
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William Stewart's Life and Work
William Stewart was the son of William Stewart of Grandtully (who died in 1574) and Isobella Stewart. His mother was the daughter of John Stewart, 3rd Earl of Atholl.
Early Life and Royal Service
It is believed that William grew up and was educated with King James VI at Stirling Castle. A royal document from 1602 confirms this. It stated that William had been serving the king "since his coronation." In 1585, he was called a "page of honour" at the royal court.
In 1579, William Stewart, who was the Laird of Grandtully and nephew of the Earl of Atholl, along with his friends, reported something important to King James VI. They shared concerns about the death of John Stewart, 4th Earl of Atholl, who had passed away after a banquet at Stirling Castle.
William had an older brother named Thomas Stewart. Thomas became the Laird of Grandtully first. William, however, became the Laird of Banchrie. Before Thomas died in 1611, he gave the lands of Grandtully to William. After this, William was known as the "feuar of Grandtully."
Helping the King
In May 1594, William Stewart became a gentleman of the king's bedchamber. This meant he was a close personal attendant to the king. He played a key role in helping to save the king during the Gowrie Conspiracy in Perth on August 5, 1600.
As a reward for his loyalty and bravery, King James VI gave William the castle of Trochrie. This castle was near Little Dunkeld and was part of the barony of Strathbran. A royal letter from November 1600 described him as a "daily servitor" (a constant servant) of the king. It is said that William added his own initials and family symbols to Trochrie Castle.
After the Union of the Crowns in 1603, when James VI became King of both Scotland and England, William Stewart did not seem to live at the royal court in London.
Homes and Legacy
William's main home was at Grandtully. Around 1636, he renovated St Mary's church there. He added a beautiful wooden ceiling painted with small pictures. He also came to own Murthly Castle.
His portrait was painted by a famous artist named Adam de Colone. A copy of this painting can still be seen at Murthly Castle today.
William Stewart died in 1646 and was buried at Grandtully.
Family Life
William Stewart married Agnes Moncreiff. Her special symbol and family crest can be seen in the chapel at Grandtully.
Their children included:
- Thomas Stewart of Grandtully (1608-1688), who married Grizel Menzies. Their daughter, Grissel Stuart, later married John Drummond of Logiealmond.
- Henry Stewart
- William Stewart
