Marriage dispensation by John Hamilton to Henry Herd and Gillian Henderson, 1555

This material is held atUniversity of St Andrews Special Collections

  • Reference
    • GB 227 msBX4705.H2D4
  • Dates of Creation
    • 1555
  • Name of Creator
  • Language of Material
    • Latin
  • Physical Description
    • 1 sheet

Scope and Content

A canonical dispensation of John Hamilton, archbishop of St Andrews.

Permits Henry Herd and Gillian Henderson (Hendersoun) to contract a marriage even though they were related within the fourth degree of affinity. With English translation.

Administrative / Biographical History

John Hamilton (1510/11-1571) was Roman Catholic archbishop of St Andrews, an illegitimate son of James Hamilton, first earl of Arran (1475?-1529), and so was a member of one of the most important families in Scotland in the mid sixteenth century. His half-brother James became regent of Scotland and tried to introduce Protestantism, resisted by John. His connections helped his career from studying at St Leonards College, St Andrews, to becoming bishop of Dunkeld and then archbishop of St Andrews, He was heavily involved in politics and even military actions, intervened for the Stewart heirs to the throne, first Mary and then her son James, persecuted heretics, completed the foundation of St Mary’s College in St Andrews, and remained faithful to his Catholic roots to the end.

Arrangement

Single item

Access Information

By appointment with the Keeper of Manuscripts. Access to records containing confidential information may be restricted.

Note

Call number used to be ms14

Other Finding Aids

Individual Manuscripts and Small Collections database available as part of Manuscripts Database

Physical Characteristics and/or Technical Requirements

Parchment, in original folds, pierced for seal tags. 32.5x26.6cm.

Archivist's Note

Description compiled by Maia Sheridan, Archives Hub project archivist, based on material from the Manuscripts Database

Conditions Governing Use

Applications for permission to quote should be sent to the Keeper of Manuscripts. Reproduction subject to usual conditions: educational use and condition of documents.

Accruals

None