Oliver Sinclair

Sir Oliver Sinclair of Pitcairnis (died 1576?) was a favourite courtier of James V of Scotland. A contemporary story tells that James V gave him the battle standard and command at the Battle of Solway Moss. Another story tells how at the end of his life he shamed the haughty servant of Regent Morton by showing him how his own prosperity had faded. Life At the royal court Oliver Sinclair was the third son of George Sinclair, eldest son and heir-apparent of Oliver St Clair, 12th Baron of Roslin, and George's spouse, Agnes Crichton. George Like many minor aristocrats he had a role at the Royal court. Oliver and his wife Katherine Bellenden were involved in the administration of the King's purse with John Tennent of Listonsheils. Oliver had the keeping of the king's purse during his trip to France in 1537. He bought some feathers for decorations at the King's entry to Paris and the tournaments following the wedding at Notre Dame. Sinclair also bought feathers in February 1541. With John Tennent, he supervised Mary of Guise's archery practice in the summer of 1542. As a gift, Oliver Sinclair, brought 196 rabbits from the warrens of Dunbar to court for Christmas 1539.