Point 9

Sir Andrew Wood of Largo (c. 1455–1539) was a prominent Scottish naval commander and merchant who played a key role in Scotland's maritime history during the late 15th and early 16th centuries. He is best known for his naval exploits under King James III and King James IV of Scotland. Andrew Wood was born around 1455 in the coastal village of Largo in Fife, Scotland. His family was involved in maritime trade, and he followed in this tradition, becoming a successful merchant and shipowner. He established himself as a significant figure in the shipping industry, with a fleet of vessels that engaged in trade across the North Sea and beyond. Wood's naval career was closely tied to the reign of King James III, who recognized his maritime expertise and appointed him as an admiral in the Scottish navy. Wood's naval prowess was first notably demonstrated in 1488, during the civil conflict between King James III and his son, the future King James IV. Wood remained loyal to King James III and was involved in several naval engagements on his behalf. His most famous military achievements occurred under King James IV, after the latter ascended to the throne. In 1490, Andrew Wood gained fame for his successful defence against an English naval attack. The English navy, led by Sir Stephen Bull, attempted to capture Wood's ships off the coast of Scotland. Despite being outnumbered, Wood's superior seamanship and strategic acumen allowed him to defeat the English fleet, capturing several ships and taking their crews as prisoners. This victory solidified Wood's reputation as a formidable naval commander and earned him the favour of King James IV, who rewarded him with lands, including the estate of Largo, and the title of "Lord High Admiral of Scotland." Sir Andrew Wood continued to serve Scotland with distinction, contributing to the development of the Scottish navy and overseeing the construction of warships. He was deeply involved in the maritime affairs of the kingdom, helping to protect Scottish interests against piracy and foreign threats. In his later years, Wood focused on his estate at Largo, where he lived until his death around 1539. He left a significant legacy as one of Scotland's most celebrated naval heroes, and his life became the subject of legend and admiration in Scottish history. One of the most notable things about his later life is that he his own canal built! Reportedly to allow him to transport to church from his house without the need to walk. The canal is sadly no longer visible. Sir Andrew Wood is remembered as one of Scotland's greatest naval commanders. His legacy is particularly significant in the context of Scotland's efforts to establish itself as a maritime power during the Renaissance period. His descendants continued to be influential in Scottish society, and the estate of Largo, which he was granted, remained associated with his family for many generations. Wood's life and achievements have been commemorated in various ways, including through historical writings and local landmarks. His role in defending Scotland's coast and his contributions to the Scottish navy have secured his place as a key figure in Scotland's maritime heritage.

Another great Levenmouth Seaman was Alexander Selkirk, better known as the inspiration for Robin Crusoe! Alexander Selkirk (1676–1721) was a Scottish sailor whose real-life ordeal inspired Daniel Defoe's Robinson Crusoe. Born in Lower Largo, Fife, Selkirk joined a privateering expedition in 1703. After a dispute with his captain over the seaworthiness of the ship Cinque Ports, he requested to be marooned on the uninhabited island of Más a Tierra (now Robinson Crusoe Island) in the South Pacific. Selkirk survived alone on the island for over four years (1704–1709), using his resourcefulness to build shelters, hunt, and tame animals. In 1709, he was rescued by the privateer ship Duke, captained by Woodes Rogers. Selkirk's story became widely known, and his survival skills impressed many. He struggled to adjust to life back in Scotland, eventually joining the Royal Navy. Selkirk died at sea in 1721. His extraordinary tale of survival inspired Defoe's famous novel, and his legacy is commemorated in his hometown and on Robinson Crusoe Island. His parents' grave can be found in the church yard.