John Houison

  Noted events in his life were:

• Details. The history of the Houison family is less well known, but the first entry in the story which lead to the joining of the Houison and Craufurd families is well documented. 

John ‘Jock’ Houison was a worker on the King’s farm at Braehead, now on the outskirts of Edinburgh. When this event of note occurred is not conclusively known, and the monarch with whom it is associated is also unclear. The tale is chronicled in Sir Walter Scott’s book “Tales of a Grandfather”, in which he suggests that it was James V. 

The event took place on Cramond Brig on the outskirts of Edinburgh, and now passed unnoticed by most, be it for the hotel which stands on Queensferry Road of the same name. Jock, busy threshing corn in his small cottage near the bridge hear a commotion outside, and on investigation saw a well dressed gentleman being attacked by muggers. Arming himself with his scythe, Jock when to the aid of the gentleman, and having successfully fought of the attackers, Jock then took the well dressed stranger into his humble dwelling, and tended the man’s wounds and gave him humble hospitality. Later, Jock accompanied the man back towards Edinburgh to ensure his safety. As they talked Jock told his new acquaintance of his work on the King’s farm, and the gentleman introduced himself as the ‘Goodman of Ballengiech’. Jock was then asked what the one thing he would most want in the world. Jock’s answer was honest and heartfelt, as he replied that to own the farm on which he worked would be his greatest wish. When they departed, Jock was invited by his new friend to visit him at the Castle the following Sunday. 

Jock arrived at the gates, and on asking, an obviously well briefed sentry, for the ‘Goodman of Ballengiech’ was allowed to pass, where he was welcomed by the Goodman. An extensive tour of the castle ensued, culminating with Jock being asked if he would like to meet the King. The farmer was beside himself with excitement but said he didn’t want to cause any trouble. The Goodman suggested they go to the main hall where he was sure that they would find the King, among his noblemen and courtiers. Jock, wary of the pending encounter enquired of his host how he would recognize the King. The Goodman replied that when they came into royal presence the King would the only one wearing a hat. Reassured, they entered the great hall together, which was packed with courtiers. Petrified, Jock scanned the room to recognize his hated monarch, but quickly concluded who his host really was saying to his host “It must be either you or me for all but us two are bare headed”.

Most amused by this, the King made Jock a present of the farm of Braehead, and it is claimed conferred that he and his descendents would be free of all taxes and duty in the land of Scotland, (which unfortunately is rather difficult to prove). In return Jock and his successors should be ready to present a ewer and basin for the monarch to wash his hands, either at Holyrood Palace or when passing by Cramond Brig.

• Burgess: Burgess in Edinburgh, 1450, Edinburgh.