William Sutherland, 6th of Duffus facts for kids
William Sutherland, 6th of Duffus was an important Scottish noble who lived in the 1500s. He was part of the Clan Sutherland, a powerful family in Scotland. William Sutherland was known as the Laird of Duffus, meaning he was the lord or owner of the lands around Duffus Castle. He died in 1530.
His Family and Early Life
William Sutherland was the son of William Sutherland, 5th of Duffus. His mother was Janet, who was the daughter of Alexander Innes from the Clan Innes.
Becoming Laird of Duffus
William became the Laird of Duffus between 1527 and 1529. His father gave him control of the lands of Duffus.
Around this time, William also made an agreement to buy more land. He paid 2300 merks (an old Scottish coin) to John Kynnard. In return, William received lands including Skelbo, Aberscors, and Invershin. This made him an even more powerful landowner.
As the new owner of Skelbo, William made a special promise called a "bond of manrent" to Alexander Gordon, Master of Sutherland. This bond meant William promised to be loyal and serve the Master of Sutherland. In return, the Master of Sutherland accepted William as a tenant and vassal (someone who holds land from a lord). If William broke this promise, he would have to pay a large fine of £1500 Scots. Parts of this fine would go to Dornoch Cathedral, the Master of Sutherland, and the King.
In 1530, James V of Scotland also gave William Sutherland the right to collect payments from lands in Strathnaver, including Galvell, Armadale, and Farr. These lands had belonged to Hugh Mackay of Farr.
His Death
William Sutherland, 6th of Duffus, died in 1530. He was killed by members of the Clan Gunn in Thurso. Some people believed that Andrew Stewart, who was the Bishop of Caithness, encouraged this attack.
William Sutherland had one son, who was also named William Sutherland, 7th of Duffus. His son later became the next Laird of Duffus.
See also
- Lord Duffus
