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Sir David Fleming, 1st of Boghall
(c1380 - after 1453)
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Sir David Fleming, younger son of Sir David Fleming of Biggar, founded the Boghall branch of the family. He commanded Scottish troops in France during the Hundred Years’ War.

Family background

David was born around 1380, the younger son of Sir David Fleming of Biggar and Cumbernauld and his second wife, Isobel de Strachan. His elder brother was Sir Malcolm Fleming. In 1401 the royal charter of Cumbernauld named David as heir should Malcolm’s male line fail. By 1405 he was a knight, witnessing a royal charter at Perth as David Flemyng.

Soldier in France

In 1419 Scotland sent an army to help France against Henry V of England. In May 1419 David commanded part of the Scottish army under Sir William Douglas in France. The Scots won a famous victory over the English at Baugé in 1421 but were heavily defeated at Verneuil in 1424.

Later life

In 1424 David witnessed a transumpt confirming the division of the earldom of Ross. In 1453 he was one of fifteen supporters of James, Lord Hamilton, who were given safe passage through England for three years to visit Rome.

Family and legacy

David’s son was Malcolm Fleming of Boghall. On his death his lands of Boghall, Pitcur, Kettins and Eassie passed to his heirs. The Flemings of Boghall were close supporters of the Lords Fleming: in 1558 the 4th Lord appointed “young Boghall” to hold his courts while he was in France, and Captain John Fleming of Boghall was named among his executors.