On 5 August 1600, an alleged attempt was made on the life of King James VI by the Ruthven family at Gowrie House in Perth. Both John Ruthven, 3rd Earl of Gowrie and his brother Alexander were killed during the strange incident, which became known as The Gowrie Conspiracy. Following a meal at Gowrie House, the King was escorted upstairs by Alexander into a hidden turret room, where the door was secured behind them. The Earl of Gowrie then charged into the conflict with his servants but was also slain in the chaotic melee. King James commanded that 5 August be celebrated annually as a holy day of public thanksgiving for his miraculous survival.