John Erskine, Earl of Mar (1675–1732)

John Erskine, 23rd and 6th Earl of Mar and 1st Duke of Mar KT (1675 – May 1732), was a prominent Scottish nobleman and a key figure in the Jacobite movement. He held the title of the 23rd Earl of Mar from the earldom's first creation and was the sixth earl in its seventh creation (of 1565). Erskine, often remembered for his political adaptability, navigated the complex and shifting landscape of early 18th-century British politics.

The Right Honourable The Earl of Mar KT
Secretary of State for Scotland
In office 1707–1709
Monarch	Anne
Preceded by	Office established
Succeeded by	James Douglas, 2nd Duke of Queensberry
In office 1713–1714
Monarch	Anne
Preceded by	The 2nd Duke of Queensberry
Succeeded by	The 1st Duke of Montrose
Jacobite Secretary of State
In office 1716–1724
Monarch	James Francis Edward Stuart
Preceded by	The 1st Viscount Bolingbroke
Succeeded by	John Hay, Duke of Inverness
Personal details
Born	1675 Scotland
Died	May 1732 Imperial city of Aix-la-Chapelle, Holy Roman Empire
Spouse(s)	Lady Margaret Hay ​ ​ (m. 1703; died 1707)​ Lady Frances Pierrepont
Children	Thomas Erskine, Lord Erskine
Parent(s)	Charles Erskine, Earl of Mar Mary Maule
Military service
Battles/wars	Jacobite rising of 1715 Battle of Sheriffmuir

As the eldest son of Charles, the 22nd and 5th Earl of Mar, Erskine inherited estates that were facing financial challenges. In 1714, following the ascension of George I, he found himself without official office and subsequently championed the Jacobite cause. He raised an army to contest the Hanoverian rule, leading his forces at the Battle of Sheriffmuir in November 1715. Despite having a numerical advantage, the battle concluded inconclusively. After the subsequent event at Fetteresso, Erskine sought refuge in France, where he spent his remaining years.

Mar's involvement in the Jacobite uprising led to a Writ of Attainder for treason in 1716, a mark of his deep commitment to his cause. This attainder was posthumously reversed in 1824. Erskine died at Aachen in exile in 1732, leaving behind a legacy intertwined with the turbulent and transformative history of Scotland and the United Kingdom during the early 18th century.

House of Mar

The Mormaerdom of Mar, one of Scotland's seven ancient provinces or kingdoms, was historically governed by a Mormaer, an ancient Pictish title analogous to an Earl. This title, indicative of a high-ranking noble status second only to the monarchy, was held by the rulers of Mar, a region in ancient Pictish society.

Folio 5 recto from the Book of Deer (Cambridge University Library, MS. II.6.32), Text from the Gospel of Matthew, starting at Matt. 1:18, with Chi Rho monogram. The text in the margins is amongst the oldest surviving Gaelic text from Scotland.

The House of Mar, recognized as Britain's oldest organized noble house, has direct ties to the Kingdom of Mar, which was among the nine established Pictish Kingdoms. Initially, the leaders of Mar were known as 'mormaors', a term signifying their elevated position in Pictish society. By the onset of the 10th century, this title evolved into the more familiar Saxon title of 'earl'. Ruadrí of Mar is the first known mormaer, or earl, of Mar from the 12th century, though the mormaerdom itself is much older. For instance, there was a mormaer of Mar present at the Battle of Clontarf in 1014. Ruadrí was a witness to a confirmation of lands to the newly established Abbey of the Holy Trinity at Dunfermline by David I in 1128. He is also mentioned as "Ruadrí mormar Marr" in the Gaelic notes on the Book of Deer, indicating that his floruit dates to shortly after 1130.

Representative Example of the Erskine Coat of Arms: Sir John Erskine, 18th Earl of Mar, KG (See also European Heraldry: House of Erskine)

An early colored representation of the Earldom of Mar can be found in a heraldic collection, specifically in MS B.29, p22 (dating from 1270–80) housed at the College of Arms. The House of Mar's coat of arms is described as 'Quarterly 1st and 4th Azure a bend between six cross crosslets fitched Or (Mar), 2nd and 3rd Argent pale Sable (Erskine)'. The motto of Clan Erskine is "Je Pense Plus" (French for "I think more"). Crest: On a chapeau Gules furred Ermine, a hand holding up a skene in pale Argent, hilted and pommelled Or. The name Erskine in Scottish Gaelic is Arascain, which translates to "air an sgian" - meaning "upon the knife." The earldom of Mar holds the distinction of being recognized as one of the most ancient titles in Great Britain, and possibly even in Europe, as declared by the Ulster King-of-Arms. Noted for its deep historical roots, the earldom's origins are shrouded in the mists of time, as observed by the esteemed historian Lord Hailes. He aptly remarked that the history of this earldom is "lost in antiquity," predating established records and the conventional scope of documented history. This heraldic emblem has a historical association with Longwy-sur-le-Doubs, a town in the Jura department of Bourgogne-Franche-Comté in eastern France, known for its strategic importance in the defense of the Kingdom of Burgundy.

Map showing roughly the historical district of Marr in Scotland (Scottish Gaelic: Màrr).

Crest: On a chapeau Gules furred Ermine a hand holding up a skene in pale Argent, hilted and pommelled Or. Erskine in Scottish Gaelic is Arascain ("air an sgian" - upon the knife).

Geographically, the Mormaerdom of Mar was situated in what is now Aberdeenshire, spanning the area between the River Dee and the River Don, extending from coastal regions to the mountainous interiors. The Earldom of Mar, as declared by the Ulster King-of-Arms, is considered one of the most ancient titles in Great Britain, and possibly even in Europe.

Mar Lodge Estate is the largest remnant of the historic Earldom of Mar. Following the participation of John Erskine, 6th Earl of Mar in the Jacobite Rising of 1715 the estate was forfeited in 1716, which brought an end to the essentially feudal landholding system practiced in the Earldom of Mar, although the process of resolving the forfeiture of 1716 took many years. The estate is recognized as one of the most important nature conservation landscapes in the British Isles and occupies nearly 8% of the Cairngorms National Park, covering 29,340 hectares (72,500 acres). Extreme weather conditions are experienced across the estate, especially on the plateau. Landslides, avalanches and floods alter the landscape and give it an interesting geomorphology. The estate is characterized by rounded granite Cairngorm mountains to the north, with deep corries and crags down to the valley floor. Spectacular glacial breaches include the Lairig Ghru and Lairig an Laoigh. To the south west are the more open, rolling hills of the Geldie. Waters flowing from the mountains become the headwaters of the River Dee. The estate is popular with hill walkers, containing 14 Munros, and 4 of the 5 highest mountains in Scotland, including Britain’s second highest mountain, Ben Macdui.

Cairngorms National Park, Scotland.

Kildrummy Castle, located near Kildrummy in Aberdeenshire, Scotland, stands as an impressive, albeit now ruined, testament to medieval architecture. It is regarded as one of the most significant and expansive examples of 13th-century castles in eastern Scotland. Historically, it served as the principal residence of the Earls of Mar.

The origins of Kildrummy Castle trace back to the early 13th century. It is believed to have been built under the lordship of Uilleam and Domhnall, who were Earls of Mar during this period. Throughout its storied past, the castle has witnessed several sieges, notably playing a crucial defensive role for the family of Robert the Bruce in 1306. This historical significance underlines Kildrummy Castle's pivotal role in Scottish history, particularly during periods of conflict and upheaval.

Isabella and her husband, Robert the Bruce, as depicted in the 1562 Forman Armorial. The armorial depicts her husband as King of Scotland.

Isabella of Mar (fl. c. 1277 – 12 December 1296) was the first wife of Robert Bruce VII, Earl of Carrick. She was the daughter of Domhnall I, Earl of Mar (died 1297–1302). The marriage of Robert Bruce VII and Isabella probably took place in the 1290s. Isabella passed away before her husband was crowned King of Scotland as Robert I. Together, she and Robert Bruce VII were the grandparents of Robert II, King of Scotland, the founder of the Royal House of Stuart.

The Erskine family was known for their unwavering allegiance to the Clan Bruce. A notable figure within the family, Sir Robert de Erskine, distinguished himself during his era. His prominence and trustworthiness were recognized by King David II of Scotland, son of King Robert The Bruce, who entrusted him with the important role of custodian of Stirling Castle, a key strategic stronghold in the country.

John Erskine's title as Earl of Mar is subject to varying interpretations across different biographies. In some accounts, he is recognized as the 23rd Earl of Mar, referencing the title's first creation. Other sources alternatively designate him as the 22nd Earl from this initial creation. Additionally, he is often acknowledged as the 6th Earl of Mar, corresponding to the title's seventh creation in 1565. In certain cases, he is referred to as both. There are also instances where he is identified as the 11th Earl of Mar, a classification that aligns with the title's second creation in 1496. This diversity in numbering reflects the complex history and various reconstructions of the Earldom of Mar over the centuries.

There are currently two earldoms of Mar in the Peerage of Scotland, and the title has been created seven times. The first creation of the earldom is currently held by Margaret of Mar, 31st Countess of Mar, who is also clan chief of Clan Mar. The seventh creation is currently held by James Erskine, 14th Earl of Mar and 16th Earl of Kellie, who is also clan chief of Clan Erskine.

Early life

Further information: Act of Union 1707

Portrait of John Erskine as a boy painted in 1690.

John Erskine, the sixth Earl of Mar, was inducted as a Knight of the Thistle on August 10, 1706. This prestigious honor marked a significant recognition in his career. The Most Ancient and Most Noble Order of the Thistle, tied closely to Scotland, was reestablished in its current form in 1687 by King James VII of Scotland. King James VII declared this as a revival of an older tradition. The order is symbolized by the thistle, Scotland's national flower, and carries the motto "Nemo me impune lacessit" (Latin for "No one provokes me with impunity"). Historical lore, as noted in the 1687 warrant, recounts that King Achaius of Scots established the Order of the Thistle in dedication to Saint Andrew after witnessing a celestial symbol of the saint's cross during a 786 battle against Angles led by Aethelstan. According to the statutes set by James VII during the order's revival, it was to maintain the original composition of "the Sovereign and twelve Knights-Brethren," a symbolic reference to Jesus Christ and His Twelve Apostles. A notable point in the order's history involves John Erskine, the 6th Earl of Mar. He was the only member ever to be stripped of his knighthood. Interestingly, unlike the other British orders, the statutes of the Order of the Thistle do not specify a procedure for the removal of a Knight. Nonetheless, this action was taken against him by the newly established Hanoverian dynasty. This followed his involvement in the Jacobite rising of 1715, leading to the loss of both his knighthood and the earldom.

John Erskine, 22nd or 6th Earl of Mar, Heritable Governor and Captain of Stirling Castle, by John Smith, after Sir Godfrey Kneller, Bt, 1703

Aerial view of Stirling Castle, Great Hall

Mar was the hereditary governor of Stirling Castle. Most of the current buildings in the castle were constructed between 1490 and 1600, during which time Stirling was developed as a principal royal center by the Stuart kings James IV, James V, and James VI. James VI was the longest-reigning monarch of the Kingdom of Scotland and sponsored the translation of the Bible into English (later named after him, the Authorized King James Version). The architecture of these new structures exhibits a blend of Scottish and French influences. In 1709, Mar supervised repairs to the castle. He drafted a proposal for the southeast elevation, inscribing it with "Justitia et patria restituta" (Justice and country restored).

In the early 18th century, John Erskine, Earl of Mar, played a significant role in British politics. He was aligned with a party supportive of the government and was appointed as one of the Commissioners for the Union. His political acumen led to his appointment as a Scottish Secretary of State. Following the Union of 1707, Mar continued his distinguished career as a representative peer for Scotland, Keeper of the Signet, and a member of the Privy Council. In 1713, under the Tory administration, he was appointed a British Secretary of State, showcasing his versatility and capability to work across party lines.

Mar's adaptability in politics was further demonstrated in 1714 when he expressed his loyalty to the newly crowned King George I. Despite his efforts, like many Tories of the time, he was relieved of his office. In August 1715, Mar chose to actively embrace his Scottish heritage and Jacobite sympathies. He discreetly traveled to Scotland, where he became a leading figure in the Jacobite movement supporting James Edward, the Old Pretender. His shift to the Jacobite cause occurred during a tumultuous period marked by the arrest and impeachment of Robert Harley and the exile of other notable Tories, including Lord Bolingbroke and the Duke of Ormonde. This period of Mar's life highlights his deep involvement in the significant political and historical events of his time.

1715 Rising

Main article: Jacobite rising of 1715

In 1714, following the Elector of Hanover's ascension to the British throne after the death of Queen Anne, many of her erstwhile supporters felt estranged from the new government. The Earl of Mar was among these figures, who, feeling alienated, chose to side with the Jacobite movement. From September of that year, he began mobilizing forces, gearing up for a southward march. This action was part of a larger strategy to unite with English Jacobite groups, with the ultimate goal of reinstating a Stuart monarch. It was during this period of shifting allegiances and active engagement in the Jacobite cause that his English detractors labeled him "Bobbing John," a nickname that reflected their perception of his changing loyalties.

Braemar Castle is set in the stunning landscape of the Cairngorms National Park.

Gathering with numerous Highland chieftains at Aboyne, John Erskine, Earl of Mar, expressed a strong commitment to Scotland's independence. On September 6, 1715, at Braemar, he initiated the Jacobite rising of 1715 by proclaiming James VIII as the King of Scotland, England, France, and Ireland. The Gaelic Bràigh Mhàrr properly refers to the area of upper Marr (as it literally means). Under his leadership, the Jacobite forces gradually expanded, showcasing his ability to rally support.

Balmoral Castle from the south lawn.

During the Jacobite rising of 1689, John Graham of Claverhouse following the arrival, in November 1688, of William III and Mary II in Britain – John Farquharson was commissioned as colonel by John Graham.  The Farquharsons were Jacobite sympathisers and James Farquharson of Balmoral was involved in both the 1715 and 1745 Jacobite risings.

As a military leader, Mar faced significant challenges. His strategic decisions, including a prolonged stay at Perth and a simulated attack on Stirling, were part of his broader military campaign, though they had limited success in advancing his cause. During the Battle of Sheriffmuir, in November 1715, Mar commanded an army that outnumbered the forces of his opponent, the Duke of Argyll. The battle concluded without a decisive victor, as each army's right wing overpowered the other's left wing.

In the battle's aftermath, while Mar's cautious approach led to missed opportunities, it's important to consider the complex circumstances and the challenging decisions he faced as a commander. The Jacobite rising of 1715, despite not achieving its ultimate goal, remains a significant event in Scottish history, reflecting the enduring spirit and aspirations of its participants.

The Battle of Sheriffmuir

The Battle of Sheriffmuir, a pivotal engagement in the Jacobite uprising. The battle's outcome, while technically inconclusive, showcased strategic aspects of Mar's leadership and the valor of his forces. Mar's army, demonstrating commendable skill and courage, achieved significant tactical successes during the battle. The right wing of his Jacobite forces, notably comprising Clan Donald, the Macleans, and the Breadalbane Campbells, displayed remarkable prowess. They effectively overpowered the Hanoverian left wing, a testament to their discipline and fighting spirit under Mar's command.

The encounter was characterized by its unique dynamics, with both armies experiencing victories and defeats on different flanks. The end of the battle, marked by the onset of night, left both sides in a state of uncertainty about the outcome. Notably, Mar's forces had inflicted heavier casualties on the Hanoverians, a point often overshadowed by the battle's overall ambiguity.

The strategic withdrawal of Mar's army towards Perth the following morning was a tactical decision, reflecting Mar's prudence in preserving his forces for future engagements. While the Duke of Argyll, commanding the Hanoverian forces, claimed victory, the outcome of the battle remained a subject of debate, with both sides having reasons to assert some measure of triumph.

In reassessing the Battle of Sheriffmuir, it's crucial to recognize the complexities of the conflict and the challenges faced by commanders like Mar. His ability to marshal his forces effectively, inflict significant losses on the enemy, and make strategic decisions under pressure, highlights his military acumen, even in the face of an uncertain and complex battlefield scenario.

Exile

Mar subsequently joined the Pretender at Fetteresso. Facing challenging circumstances, both Mar and the Prince sought refuge in France, where Mar would spend the rest of his life. In recognition of his commitment to the Jacobite cause, the Parliament issued a Writ of Attainder for treason against Mar in 1716. This legal action, reflective of the turbulent political times, remained in effect until it was posthumously reversed in 1824. Demonstrating his continued influence and leadership within the Jacobite movement, Mar was appointed as the Jacobite Secretary of State in March 1716, succeeding Henry St John in this significant role.

John Erskine, 6th/23rd Earl of Mar, recognized for his significant contributions to politics, architecture, and urban planning, was a visionary leader and a creative thinker. Bestowed with the Jacobite title of Duke of Mar by James III and VIII, he was a pivotal figure during a transformative era in British history. Created Duke of Mar, Marquess Erskine or Marquess of Stirling, Earl of Kildrummie, Viscount of Garioch, and Lord Alloa, Ferriton and Forrest in the notional Peerage of Scotland in 1715, his titles reflected his esteemed status. Despite the attainder by the government of the Hanoverian George I in the following year, his influence and recognition persisted within Jacobite circles.

Further elevating his stature, he was also created Earl of Mar in the Peerage of England in 1717 and Duke of Mar in the Peerage of Ireland in 1722. Although these titles, with an ordinary remainder to heirs male of the body, became extinct after his son's death in 1766, his legacy endured through his other titles and contributions.

Arms of the Kingdom of Jerusalem

Beyond his noble titles, the Earl of Mar was a forward-thinking individual, especially in the realms of architecture and urban development. His vision extended beyond the Anglo-Scottish Union of 1707, as he sought to integrate England, Ireland, and Scotland as equal partners in a proposed federation with France. This ambitious plan aimed at securing lasting peace across Europe. John Erskine served as Sovereign Grand Commander of the Order of the Fleur de Lys from 1716-1730, with the purpose of re-establishing the Judaic-Christian Kingdom of Jerusalem.

During his 19 years in exile following the Jacobite Rising of 1715, Mar dedicated himself to intellectual pursuits, notably in designing houses and urban improvements. These designs were not just for aesthetic value but were intended to support the infrastructural needs of a restored Stuart monarchy. His work in exile showcased his unwavering commitment to his principles and his homeland, underlining his role as a prominent and influential figure in the historical and cultural narrative of the United Kingdom.

John Erskine, Earl of Mar, actively sought the support of foreign powers for the Stuart cause, demonstrating his commitment to this political endeavor. Over time, however, his standing within the Jacobite movement faced challenges. In 1719, he was involved in orchestrating an invasion plan, leveraging Spain's ongoing war against Britain, though this initiative was ultimately hindered by adverse weather conditions.

In a significant shift in 1721, Mar accepted a pension of £3,500 a year from George I, a decision reflecting his adaptability and pragmatism in a changing political landscape. The following year, his name was mentioned in relation to the trial of Bishop Atterbury, with allegations of Mar's involvement in the bishop's betrayal. However, these claims remained unproven and could be characterized as speculative.

Despite some controversies, Mar's role in these events underscores the complex nature of political alliances and strategies of the time. In 1724, the Pretender distanced himself from Mar, marking a new chapter in Mar's political journey. Mar spent his later years in Paris and Aix-la-Chapelle, where he died in 1732. This period of his life highlights his continued engagement in political affairs and his enduring connection to significant historical events of the era.

Marriage, issue and descendant

John Erskine, Earl of Mar, first married Lady Margaret Hay, daughter of Thomas Hay, 7th Earl of Kinnoull, on 6 April 1703. They had a son, Thomas, born in 1705. Lady Margaret died on 26 April 1707.

Mar's second marriage was to Lady Frances Pierrepont, daughter of Evelyn Pierrepont, 1st Duke of Kingston-upon-Hull. This alliance proved beneficial, assisting Mar in addressing the financial challenges inherited from his family. Unfortunately, Lady Frances experienced significant health challenges, suffering from mental illness beginning in 1728, a condition thought to be exacerbated by the difficulties surrounding Mar's exile in France. Despite these challenges, Lady Frances lived a long life, passing away on 4 March 1767. She was laid to rest at St Marylebone Parish Church, Westminster.

Architectural and political contributions

John Erskine of Mar was a prominent figure in Scottish history, renowned for his significant contributions in architecture, politics, and cultural preservation. His architectural interests were particularly evident in his work on ancestral homes and castles in Mar, notably transforming the House of Alloa by integrating traditional Scottish and baroque styles. He also made innovative changes to other Scottish houses, reflecting both his architectural vision and commitment to Scotland's cultural heritage. In addition to architecture, Erskine's political involvement was substantial, engaging deeply in the nation's affairs, from industrialization to landscape designing, particularly during the crucial period of the Parliamentary Union of 1704-1707.

Erskine's influence extended to urban planning, with notable contributions to city plans for Edinburgh, London, and Paris. His Jacobite exile saw him playing a key role in the court's affairs, marked by interactions with prominent figures and experiences across Europe, underscoring his political and international insight. His visionary projects in architecture and urban design are evident in his plans for palaces and houses across Europe. Erskine's personal life, including his family's challenges, eventual pardon, and legacy, as highlighted by the Erskine and Mar monument, paints a picture of a multifaceted individual whose life and work left a lasting impact on Scotland's historical and cultural narrative.

Notable relatives

• Through his marriage to Lady Frances Pierrepont, Mar was a brother-in-law of Lady Mary Wortley Montagu.
• Mar's brother James Erskine, Lord Grange was a noted judge.
• Mar's son Thomas Erskine, Lord Erskine served as Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Scotland (1749–1750).
• Robert Erskine (physician) (Areskine) was the librarian of Peter the Great.

In popular culture

The progressive rock band Genesis wrote a song, "Eleventh Earl of Mar" (found on their Wind & Wuthering album), about Mar and the 1715 Jacobite rising. The lyrics were written by Mike Rutherford, who explains "I had this idea after reading this history book about a failed Scottish rising. I liked the idea of him -- he was a bit gay, a bit camp, and a bit well-dressed."

He was mentioned in a contemporary folk song "Cam Ye O'er Frae France", which was recorded by British folk rock band Steeleye Span.

He was mentioned in the Starz original series, Outlander - season two, episode two, at the 21:50 mark.

The Alloa branch of the Wetherspoons pub chain is named "The Bobbing John" after Mar.

References

• Maurice Bruce, 'The Duke of Mar in Exile, 1716-32', Transactions of the Royal Historical Society, 4th Series, Vol. 20 (1937), pp. 61-82 (JSTOR)

External links

• "Archival material relating to John Erskine, Earl of Mar". UK National Archives.