A Stirlingshire businessman has had his direct descent from a medieval Scottish king confirmed through a DNA sample. Archie Shaw Stewart is a direct descendant of King Robert III, who ruled Scotland from 1390 until his death in 1406.
Mr Shaw Stewart's own genealogical research had already indicated he was related to Sir John Stewart of Blackhall and Ardgowan, a son of the king. His family line also includes Sir John's great-grandfather, Walter Stewart, a commander under Robert the Bruce at the Battle of Bannockburn.
The DNA study was conducted by the University of Strathclyde's genealogical studies postgraduate programme in partnership with the Bannockburn Family History Project. The project aims to uncover connections between modern individuals and ancestors who fought at Bannockburn in 1314.
The study also revealed that Mr Shaw Stewart carries a distinctive genetic marker not found in descendants of Robert III's brothers. Researchers suggest this could lead to identifying other descendants who share the marker. Graham Holton, principal tutor at the programme, called the marker a 'fascinating discovery' and noted that the mutation likely occurred in Robert III or one of his descendants.
Mr Shaw Stewart, who runs an electronics firm near Doune, said his great uncle Patrick Shaw Stewart had compiled an extensive family tree over 100 years ago, extending back to Robert III. 'He would be very satisfied to see this part of it – Stewart – verified by new technology,' Mr Shaw Stewart added.
