The Earl of Mar

The Earl of Mar, one of the most ancient titles in Great Britain, carries with it a rich tapestry of history that spans centuries. In this comprehensive blog post, we will delve deep into the intriguing tale of the Earldom of Mar. From its obscure origins and its association with influential noble families to its pivotal role in Scottish history and the legal disputes that have surrounded it in recent times, we will explore every facet of this historic title. Join us on a journey through time as we uncover the intricate history of the Earl of Mar.

Origins and Evolution

The Earldom of Mar traces its roots back to a distant past, shrouded in the mists of Scottish history. Its beginnings are intertwined with the Pictish era, a time when the rulers of Mar bore the title of “mormaor,” a Pictish dignity second in importance only to that of a king. This era, steeped in legend and tradition, is where the story of the Earl of Mar truly commences.

In the annals of history, the title “mormaor” eventually gave way to the Saxon title of “earl.” This transition marked a significant shift in the governance and administration of the region, as Scotland evolved over time.

Prominent Families

Throughout its long and storied existence, the Earldom of Mar has passed through the hands of several prominent and influential noble families. These dynasties, including the Douglas, Stewart, Drummond, and Erskine clans, left indelible marks on both the title and the region it represented.

One of the most famous families associated with the Earldom of Mar is the House of Douglas. Their connection to the earldom came through marriage alliances and political maneuvering. The Douglas family played a crucial role in Scotland’s history and, in particular, in the struggles for power and control in the Highlands.

Another influential family that held the title was the House of Stewart. Their association with the earldom is marked by significant events, including the Battle of Harlaw in 1411, a pivotal conflict that decisively shaped the power dynamics between the Saxon and Gaelic communities in the Highlands.

The Drummond and Erskine families also played their part in the story of the Earldom of Mar. Their roles in Scotland’s governance and the administration of the earldom highlighted the title’s enduring importance.

Mar’s Historical Significance

The historical significance of the Earldom of Mar extends far beyond the realm of noble titles. It has been a witness to and a participant in some of Scotland’s most crucial moments.

The Battle of Harlaw, fought in 1411, stands as one of the defining moments in the Earldom’s history. In this epic clash, the forces of the Earl of Mar emerged victorious against overwhelming odds. The battle’s significance extended beyond the immediate military outcome, as it marked the conclusion of a protracted struggle for supremacy in the Highlands between the Saxon and Gaelic communities.

Beyond the battlefield, members of the House of Mar held influential positions at the Scottish Court and in national councils. They occupied the highest offices in the royal household and played pivotal roles in shaping the course of Scotland’s history.

Marriage Alliances

Marriage alliances have always been a critical aspect of nobility, and the Earldom of Mar was no exception. The title’s close ties with the illustrious House of Bruce, particularly with Robert the Bruce, Scotland’s iconic king, had significant implications for the Mar title.

One of the most noteworthy alliances was the marriage between the restorer of Scottish independence, Robert the Bruce, and a daughter of David, the sixth Earl of Mar. This union solidified the connection between the Bruce family and the Earldom of Mar.

Another important marriage alliance saw Gratney, the seventh earl, wed Christiana, the sister of King Robert. This union brought the formidable stronghold of Kildrummie Castle into the family’s possession, where it would remain a key seat of power for generations.

These marital connections not only strengthened the bonds between noble houses but also had a lasting impact on the political landscape of medieval Scotland.

Modern Mar Disputes

While the history of the Earl of Mar is steeped in tradition and noble lineage, it is not without its contemporary controversies. In the 19th and 20th centuries, legal disputes arose over the rightful holder of the Earldom of Mar, shedding light on the complexities of peerage law and the title’s historical intricacies.

These disputes revolved around the question of whether the title granted by Queen Mary in 1565 was a new and personal honor or a restoration of an ancient peerage. The implications were significant, as they determined the inheritance of the title and the associated estates.

One argument suggested that the original Earldom of Mar, purely territorial in nature, ceased to exist at the death of Earl Thomas in 1377. It was posited that William, the first Earl of Douglas, obtained the earldom by charter and not by right of his wife. According to this perspective, the title descended through different families and individuals with no direct connection to its original possessors.

On the opposing side, it was argued that the Earldom of Mar, despite its various changes and transitions, maintained its essential identity. Queen Mary’s actions in 1565 were seen as a restoration of the ancient dignity rather than the creation of a new peerage. This interpretation had far-reaching consequences for the inheritance of the title, including the possibility of descent through both male and female lines.

These legal disputes captured the attention of many influential figures in Scotland, leading to protests and debates within the peerage and legal circles.

Conclusion

The history of the Earl of Mar is a captivating narrative that encompasses ancient origins, influential noble families, pivotal battles, and intricate legal disputes. This venerable title remains a testament to Scotland’s rich and multifaceted history, serving as a reminder of the ever-evolving tapestry of noble titles and their fascinating stories.

As we reflect on the intricate history of the Earldom of Mar, we gain insight into the complexities of peerage law, the enduring significance of noble families, and the enduring allure of Scotland’s historic titles. The Earl of Mar’s legacy endures, not just as a title but as a living testament to a bygone era that continues to captivate our imaginations.

 

The Great Historic Families of Scotland” by James Taylor, M.A., D.D., F.S.A. (1889)