Regents of King James VI
After Mary, Queen of Scots forced abdication in 1567, one year old James became king. During this time there is still a power struggle between the Queen’s Party (Catholic) and the King’s Party (Protestant). This caused much unrest especially in the Highlands against neighbouring Clans and even within Clan families. Kilravock acted as a neutral and trusted man.
The following regents took charge for short periods of time, often changing allegiance and religion.
James Stewart, Earl of Moray (regent 1567–1570):
Mary's half-brother and so was initially a trusted advisor, he was created as the Earl of Moray in 1562, but later led rebellions against Mary eventually forcing her abdication. He was the first head of state to be assassinated by firearms, by James Hamilton of Bothwellhaugh, a supporter of Mary.
Portrait of James Stewart, 1st Earl of Moray.
Image from https://cdn.britannica.com/75/127575-050-A0D0CA85/James-Stewart-1st-earl-of-Moray.jpg?w=300
Matthew Stewart, Earl of Lennox (regent 1570–1571):
James VI's paternal grandfather, the father of Lord Darnley (Mary’s husband), was a Catholic leader but aligned with the Protestant "King's Party" against the catholic "Queen's Party". His brief regency was marked by civil war between the "King's Party" and the "Queen's Party". He was killed during a raid on Stirling Castle although there was confusion which party killed him.
Portrait of Matthew Stewart, 4th Earl of Lennox.
Image from https://maryqueenofscots.net/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/matthew.stewart.4th.earl_.of_.lennox.square.jpg
John Erskine, Earl of Mar (regent 1571–1572):
He was chosen as Regent due to his moderate, "mild temperament" compared to previous aggressive regents (Moray and Lennox). He was a member of the Protestant reformation party and loyal to the young King James VI. Wrote this letter below about the death of Lennox. He died in office, with suspicion of poisoning. Rumours were Morton the next Regent was involved, but never proven.
Portrait of John Erskine, Earl of Mar
Image from:
https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/6/6b/JohnErskineofMar1stEarlRegent.png
James Douglas, Earl of Morton (regent 1572-1581):
The last and longest-serving regent, he brought stability but was later deposed as he was found guilty of complicity in the murder Darnley and executed by “the Maiden” which was a predecessor of the guillotine. He wrote to Kilravock telling him of his cousin’s death and to take care.
James Douglas, Earl of Morton.
Image from National Portrait Gallery
https://www.npg.org.uk/collections/search/portrait/mw126653/James-Douglas-4th-Earl-of-Morton
Letters to Kilravock from Mar and Morton
Murder of Lennox at Stirling Castle:
Summary of letter from Mar written to Kilravock on 9th September 1571. Mar describes a violent attack on the Scottish Parliament in Stirling, where the Regent, the King’s grandfather, was captured and murdered, an act he condemns as unlawful and brutal. The crisis has destabilised the country, and to safeguard the young King and maintain order, the nobles have appointed Mar to lead the government. Though hesitant, he accepts out of duty. He advises unity among supporters, personal safety, and continued communication about local matters.
Death of Kilravock’s Cousin:
Summary of letter from Morton written 16th September 1572.
Morton is requesting protection for the family of Kilravock’s killed cousin, Hugh Rose of Logie. He asks that the widow and children be safeguarded and allowed to keep their possessions.
This post is part of the Kilravock Stories Exhibition, now on display at Nairn Museum until 25th September 2026. Explore the history of Clan Rose, Kilravock Castle, and the rich heritage of the Scottish Highlands.
References
For full transcription of this letter see pages 256 & 260 of A genealogical deduction of the family of Rose of Kilravock : Spalding Club (Aberdeen, Scotland) : Free Download, Borrow, and Streaming : Internet Archive