James Anstruther

Sir James Anstruther of Anstruther (died 1606), was a Scottish landowner and courtier. Family background He was a son of John Anstruther and Margaret Clephane, daughter of George Clephane of Carslogie. His second wife was Margaret Learmonth, daughter of James Learmonth of Dairsie and Balcomie. James Anstruther married Jean Scott. Career at court In February 1584 James VI appointed John Anstruther of that Ilk, and his son James Anstruther "feuar" of Anstruther, to be searchers of the customs of Anstruther. James Anstruther served as carver (or cupbearer) and subsequently Master of Household to Anne of Denmark, the wife of James VI of Scotland. Apart from ceremonial duties and attendance, the role involved accounting for the food and allowances of servants and courtiers appointed to the royal household, and an overview of the finances of the household. Amongst the recorded expenses of the household, he paid the queen's Danish servants £600 Scots for their fees and wages for the Whitsunday term of 1593, but the Martinmas bill was only £400. Anstruther was commended by James VI for his efforts to reduce the costs of his queen's household on 17 May 1595, and given the office for life. The role was shared in turn by Harry Lindsay of Kinfauns, Patrick Hume of Polwarth, and David Beaton of Melgund.