Maxwell Stuart: The First Female Laird of Traquair
The history of Scotland is often told through the lens of its great estates and the families who steward them. Among these, Traquair House stands as a unique monument to continuity and change. Today, the estate is managed by Maxwell Stuart, a woman who broke centuries of tradition to become the first female laird of Traquair.
Before returning to her roots in Scotland, Stuart spent time working as a teacher in South America. Her life took a pivotal turn in 1999 when she assumed management of the Traquair estate from her mother, who had stepped in following the death of the twentieth laird in 1990. At the time of her inheritance, Stuart held a rare distinction: she was the only female Laird in Scotland.
The Legacy of Traquair House
Traquair is distinguished as the oldest continually inhabited stately home in Scotland. The estate's history dates back to 1491, when the castle was granted to James Stuart, the 1st Laird of Traquair. James was the illegitimate son of James Stewart, 1st Earl of Buchan, and a cousin to King James III of Scotland.
As a Scottish Laird, Maxwell Stuart is entitled to the traditional style of address, "The Much Honoured," and holds the title "Lady of Traquair." To ensure the preservation of this historic site, she owns the house in partnership with a charitable trust.
Modern Stewardship and Tourism
Under Stuart's leadership, Traquair has evolved into a vibrant destination. She actively manages the estate by operating a brewery and a bed and breakfast, while also serving as a tour guide. The estate is a hub for community and celebration, hosting summer festivities, formal events, and weddings.
Her commitment to quality was recognized in 2016 when she accepted the Four Star Gold Quality Assurance Award from VisitScotland on behalf of the house.
Political Career and Public Service
Beyond her role as a landowner, Maxwell Stuart is a committed socialist who has frequently sought public office as a candidate for the Labour Party. Her political journey began in 1999 when she ran for the Scottish Borders Council, representing Innerleithen and Walkerburn, though she narrowly lost by ninety votes.
Stuart continued her political pursuits in subsequent years:
- 2001 General Election: Ran for Roxburgh and Berwickshire with a platform focused on raising the minimum wage, tackling crime, creating jobs in the Scottish Borders, and constructing a new railway line.
- 2003 and 2007 Scottish Parliament Elections: Stood as the Labour candidate for Tweeddale, Ettrick, and Lauderdale.
Authorship and Public Recognition
A historian of her own lineage, Stuart has authored two books detailing the complex history of her ancestors: All for Our Rightful King: Traquair's Jacobite Story, 1688–1842 and A Family Life Revealed: The Stuarts at Traquair 1491–1875.
Her role as a modern female landowner has also drawn media attention. In 2016, she was featured in the BBC documentary Lady Lairds, which explored the lives of women who own castles and country houses. More recently, in April 2021, she appeared on the Duchess podcast in an interview with Emma Manners, Duchess of Rutland.
In August 2024, Stuart reached a new milestone in public service when she was appointed Lord Lieutenant of Tweeddale, succeeding Sir Hew Strachan.
Key Facts
- First Female Laird: Maxwell Stuart is the first woman to hold the lairdship of Traquair.
- Historic Estate: Traquair is Scotland's oldest continually inhabited stately home, established in 1491.
- Diverse Ventures: The estate operates a brewery, a B&B, and a wedding venue.
- Political Affiliation: A socialist and former Labour Party candidate for local and national elections.
- Recent Appointment: Appointed Lord Lieutenant of Tweeddale in August 2024.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Title | Lady of Traquair / Lord Lieutenant of Tweeddale |
| Estate History | Founded 1491; oldest continually inhabited home in Scotland |
| Business Operations | Brewery, Bed & Breakfast, Event Hosting |
| Publications | Two books on the Stuart family and Jacobite history |
| Political Party | Labour Party |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Laird?
A Laird is a Scottish landed estate owner. Maxwell Stuart is the first woman to hold this title at Traquair, where she is addressed as "The Much Honoured" and the "Lady of Traquair."
When was Traquair House established?
The castle was given to James Stuart, the 1st Laird of Traquair, in 1491. It remains the oldest continually inhabited stately home in Scotland.
What businesses operate at the Traquair estate?
Maxwell Stuart operates a brewery and a bed and breakfast at the castle, and the estate also hosts weddings and formal events.
What were Maxwell Stuart's political goals?
During her 2001 campaign, her platform included increasing the minimum wage, reducing crime, creating more jobs in the Scottish Borders, and building a new railway line.
What is Maxwell Stuart's current official role in Tweeddale?
As of August 2024, Maxwell Stuart serves as the Lord Lieutenant of Tweeddale, having succeeded Sir Hew Strachan.