Walter fitz Alan

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Walter Fitzalan born before 1114, died ca.1177. He was the 1st High Steward of Scotland ca.1150-1177. The second son of Alan FitzFlaald ( 4th hereditary Seneschal of Dol in Brittany) and Aveline de Hesdin.

The doomsday book, in 1086, records Alan FitzFlaald as having estates in England. When The Anarchy took hold in England and civil war between Empress Matilda and Stephen, Walter became involved. He befriended David I who was the Uncle of Matilda. He fought for Scotland at the Battle of the Standard at Northallerton in 1138 under the command of David I's son, Prince Henry.

Walter moved to Scotland and took up service under David I. He rose in rank to the Stewardship of Scotland. In 1157 it was confirmed as a hereditary office. He was also given lands in Renfrewshire and Ayrshire.In 1163 he founded a monastery based on the Cluniac order. This small priory grew and by 1219 became Paisley Abbey. In 1164 he defeated Somerled, King of the Hebrides (Gaelic "ri Innse Gall") in the Battle of Renfrew.

Walter Fitzalan was married to Eschina de Londonius, widow of Robert de Croc and had three children: Alan Fitzwalter, Simon FitzWalter and a daughter Margaret FitzWalter.