MacGregor

MacGregor Page 42

by Peter John Lawrie

  Chapter 40

  Author's Note

  First and foremost, this is a work of fiction. Most of the dialogue is invented, except where contemporary narrative has been incorporated. Some of the scenes are portrayed as I imagined them based on other contemporary material for want of eye-witness accounts. Some events are inserted as highly probable. Having made that statement, I can claim that I have stuck to histor­ical fact as closely as I possibly could. If anything, I may have erred towards portraying the history as it was rather than creating a good story. I have read historical novels in which one is left wondering 'how much of that is history, and how much fantasy?' Usually one ends up assuming that almost all the novel has been invented. All of the major events described in this book took place, to the best of my knowledge as I described them. The involvement of Clan Gregor though obscure and contradictory in some accounts, was as described. For the benefit of the reader who may be interested in the true story, or as close to it as the obscurity of two hundred and fifty years allows, I have set out below chapter notes explaining the background of the book. It has to be remembered that most of the eye-witness accounts on the Jacobite side were written many years after the event. On the Hanoverian or winning side there is more material dating from the time. The statements taken from the MacGregors in Buchanan were compiled in 1746 by the factor with a view to obtaining compensation for the estate, and of course for the tenants to deny or minimise their involvement.

  Some say that the '45 has been done to death as a theme for historical novels and that less well known subjects are of more interest. I have chosen a neglected aspect of the rising, the role of Clan Gregor. Indeed “Bonnie Prince Charlie” barely features in this book, except as an incidental character. Although never numbering more than three hundred or so, the clan were involved throughout. The march into England and the battle of Culloden have been mentioned only incidentally because Glengyle was not involved in either.

  The main theme of the book is the life of Robert, or Rob MacGregor. The book begins with Rob, aged 79, receiving his son Duncan home after many years, and meeting his grandson Alexander for the first time. This chapter, although placed first, gives a hint of the aftermath of the rising and the consequence of it for the Highlands.

  Concerning Rob's father, Gregor Glun Dubh, I quote from "The History of Clan Gregor" by Amelia Murray MacGregor, page 448 and 449. [published 1898 and 1901.]

  "Gregor was a distinguished man, 'fond of arms, and well educated,' he had adopted the name of James Grahame, and his Gaelic "twoname" was Glun Dubh, in reference to a black mole on his knee. He commanded bodies of the clan in 1715 and 1745, when he was appointed Colonel. In gratitude to his Uncle Rob Roy he took part in some of his quarrels, and befriended his sons. After the '45 he suffered hostility from the government, like other Loyalists, but he left a reputation for upright conduct, and 'his memory was held in great respect by friend and foe.' He married when still quite young Mary, daughter of Hamilton of Bardowie, by whom he had five sons and three daughters. Gregor of Glengyle died on 21st August 1777, aged 89, at Portnellan, a farm a little to the east of Glengyle, in the house of his daughter Mrs Campbell, then a widow." His sons:

  1: John, younger of Glengyle born 1708 ... "early in 1745 the Hanoverian government secured him, and he was kept prisoner in the Castle of Edinburgh until the trouble was over. The family estate was happily preserved by being vested in the person of John several years before 1745. He predeceased his father, dying in 1774."

  2: Robert, second son (and hero of this book), "he married; 1st a daughter of Graham of Drunkie, by whom he had a son who died young; and 2nd a daughter of ... Stewart of Balquhidder, by whom he had a son, Duncan, a sailor " .

  3: James, a sailor who died in the King's service.

  4: Malcolm, died at Port Glasgow

  5: Donald who went to sea with his Uncle, Captain Hamilton of Bardowie

  My research into my own family origins led me to a Duncan MacGregor, married to Grissel MacGregor. They had a son Alexander in 1776 who was my great-great-great-grandfather. Duncan, father of Alexander, was almost certainly a sailor. His son Alexander obtained an extremely well paid post (for the time) as factor on the Duke of Westminster's estates in Cheshire. Alex's son John became a member of the Royal College of Surgeons, while another son, also Alexander, became a sailor. There is also a family tradition of Rob Roy descent. Finally, y-DNA evidence has confirmed a strong probability of a family connection.

  As far as Duncan, son of Robert is concerned, there is a very articulate letter written by him in 1820 that is held in the John MacGregor, WS papers at the Scottish Record Office in Edinburgh. He was sole heir to his uncle Donald, a ship­master of Glasgow in 1789, for his estate valued at £3300 sterling. He was admitted to the Naval hospital at Greenwich as an in-pensioner in 1820, dying there at the age of 79 in 1826, having served 7 years in the Royal navy, ending in 1808. Duncan’s father, Robert married Isabel Graham in 1743. I cannot find the second marriage, or the birth of Duncan in the parish records. That omission does not, however, count for much as the local parish record has a gap of a few years covering the period of the second marriage. The genealogy of the Stewarts of Glenbuckie has Jean born, about 1710, sister to the Glenbuckie who died at Leny House, who married a “Graham in Menteith.” “Menteith” gave me some problems because modern maps do not put the northern part of Buchanan parish in Menteith. However in the Scots Magazine for 1746, “Brigadier Mordaunt with 700 men burnt all the houses belonging to the MacGregors in the Braes of Monteith” - meaning Glengyle and his dependants.

  So, after years of research, I have some confidence that I can include Robert among my ancestors. As far as his role in the '45 is concerned, there is no mention of the involvement of any of Gregor's sons. The statement by him recorded in the Montrose papers at the Scottish Record Office, deny that he had any involvement in the rising. He was at home when Glengyle and James Mòr were still in hiding. However, the Clan Gregor were very good at covering their tracks - they had a lot of practice. Only the names of officers who served in the '45 have survived, and there is dispute and uncertainty about these. Rob possibly did not take part in the '45, though the evidence of the Montrose papers may not be conclusive. His personal involvement in the events described in this book is quite imaginary. I have used him to carry the narrative of the very real history. In so doing I have been able to ‘place’ him so as to be a central character in the narration of known events, at the expense perhaps of those, such as Major Evan, James Mòr, Glengyle and so on, who were involved. I have begun the book with an imaginary account of Duncan and his son visiting his father Robert at Stronachlachar. There is no record of when Robert died, nor whether he ended his days at Stronachlachar.

  Other contemporary documents are included, as quoted for instance, in History of Clan Gregor, or from eye-witnesses of eighteenth century Scotland such as Defoe, Burt, Pennant, Home and Ray.

  Finally I have run through the chapters, explaining in detail, what is culled from historical sources and contemporary documents and what is fantasy.

  Glengyle 1719. This is a curtain opener, featuring little Rob, in a place of safety, in case of disaster following Rob Roy's trip to Glen Shiel in the 1719 rising. These events actually happened as Rob describes them, though I cannot tell how and where the Clan disposed of their children and cattle, but something like this probably happened. I made considerable play on the educa­tion. Rob Roy was fluent in English as well as his native Gaelic. He possessed a good written hand, and he made sure that all of his children received a good educa­tion. He appears to have been a very astute businessman in the cattle trade. One of his associates absconded with a considerable amount of capital, part of which belonged to the Duke of Montrose, an investor in Rob's speculations. Montrose then treated the missing money not as an investment that had gone wrong, even though he had quite happily shared in previous profits, but as a debt to be pursued by the full rigour of the law. Rob Roy became a Cat
holic later in life, hence the inclusion of Father O'Brien. Gregor was also reckoned to be well educated and certainly would have ensured that his sons received an education. This was not unusual at this time. Travellers remarked on how liter­ate very ordinary people in the Highlands were. Also included in this chapter is a description of a typical set of Highland weapons and a description of traditional farming.

  Glen Finnan August 19. The merest taste here, for completeness, of the raising of the standard. It has been dealt with so often elsewhere that it needs no further comment. Note however, that James Mòr was at Glen Finnan and subsequently reported to James Craigie, Lord Advocate, what had occurred. Blackwood states that he did this with the knowledge and approval of the Jacobite leadership, and that he used the opportunity of his visit to Edinburgh to distribute Jacobite broadsheets. This was much to the annoyance of the authorities who offered a reward for the capture of the persons responsible.

  Balquhidder, August 30th. From History of Clan Gregor, Duncan Mac­Pharrie was an officer of Glencarnaig during the rising and left an account from which I have drawn much of my story. His account: "The Duke of Perth, Glencarnaig, Glengyle, Glenbuckie and Arnprior had a meeting in the Kirkton of Balquhidder upon the 30th of August and the resolu­tion of this Council of war was to raise their men with all expedition against that day eight days..."

  The balance of the chapter describes the Brown Bess musket that features quite significantly throughout the book. I briefly mentioned the position of the Presbyterian Church of Scotland that was strongly anti-Jacobite. After the rising Cumberland’s troops burned every Episcopal Meeting-house they could find. The priests were hounded and had to go into hiding.

  Inversnaid, September 4th. From MacPharrie: "James Mòr MacGregor as Captain, joined Glencarnaig at Callander with forty men from Glengyle, and forty five soldiers that Glengyle apprehended at the roads on Loch Lomond side, and he took the garrison of Inversnaid and demolished it" The 255 men with which Glengyle joined the army at Dunagan, by Crieff (Dunnachan) is taken from John Home. I assumed that this probably includes the 45 prisoners, as other accounts allow the Clan less than two hundred all told at Gladsmuir. Most of the detail and action in this chapter is imaginary. I did read an account that Inversnaid was captured by James Mòr piling timber against the gate and setting fire to it. He then walked though the remains of the gate and captured the occupants. As it was twelve against twelve, I decided to introduce a surprise scaling of the ramparts. I do not know where Glengyle surprised the road-building party or how. Nor do I know exactly how many men were captured, how many gave their parole and how many joined Glengyle. Several sources mention that Glengyle brought forty-five prisoners with him, who were later imprisoned at Doune. Ardgartan was a small Campbell tacksman, taking his name from an estate in Cowal, but I have no grounds for saying that he commanded here or that he behaved in this way. The use of parole and the honourable treatment of their prisoners by the Jacobites was widespread, and in marked contrast with the attitude of the Hanoverian forces later.

  Doune September 12th. This chapter is largely a work of imagination. I used published descriptions of the building and my own visits to the castle to devise it. Doune was certainly occupied by the Jacobites about this date. They may have just walked through the open gate. The government garrisoned it as a fortress against the Jaco­bites in 1715, but I cannot determine what the situation was in 1745. The castle as it is today was partially restored and reroofed by the Earl of Moray, its hereditary keeper in 1883. Although the roof had collapsed by 1800, it had been repaired in 1738 and I have described the place as it may have been in 1745. There certainly was a troop of Gardiner's dragoons in the area, it would have been a sensible strong point for them to base their operations and watch the Fords of Frew; the Jacobites certainly thought so. Nowadays the carse of the Forth, from Alloa upstream to Aberfoyle, presents a peaceful prospect of firm farmland, certainly no obstacle to progress between North and South. Up until 1800, this was most certainly not the case. Apart from the causeway closely controlled by Stirling Castle, the morass of the Forth created an almost impenetrable barrier, hence the many battles which were fought in the area. The Fords of Frew, due South of Doune, were one of the few possible crossing points.

  Frew to Edinburgh. The advance of Edinburgh is taken from several sources. Terry is quite good and MacPharrie (History of Clan Gregor) gives some detail.

  Gladsmuir September 21st. This was the contemporary name for the Battle known today as Prestonpans. The battle was actually fought on the muir some distance from Preston village. It apparently changed due to some sort of eighteenth century tourist gimmick when the villagers realised that they could cash in on the tourist poten­tial if they had the battle renamed! The events are as described by Duncan MacPharrie, including the dispositions of the forces, the injuries, the beha­viour of Perth's regiment and the Prince's congratulation afterwards. I also used Battles in Britain by William Seymour and several published accounts of the '45. The dramatisation is my own version of the fighting tactics of the Highlander, with Rob in the thick of it. James Mòr did break his thigh and after treatment in Edinburgh, retired to Corrie Arklet. The Montrose papers mentions that a surgeon named Macintyre treated him at Inversnaid fort. I presume that he rejoined the army when the Prince returned from England but I cannot be sure. Craigruidhe died of his wounds.

  Lord Reay's men were captured and gave their parole. The Earl of Sutherland and Lord Reay later persuaded them that it was an invalid oath and soon had them back in arms against the Jacobites. One of the tragedies of the '45, which partly explains the behaviour of the English but certainly does not excuse it, is the significant difference in attitude to the rising of the two sides. In this modern age of total war and mass death, it is difficult to conceive of a civilised attitude to war, but in the eighteenth century there was such an attitude and recognised standards of conduct between gentlemen engaged in war. This often did not extend as far as the private soldier, but in many ways the convention of the knight, the fighting gentleman, of earlier centuries survived. The Jacobites believed that they were fighting such a gentlemanly conflict. James Stuart had a better claim to the throne of his ancestors than did the German George of Hanover. This hereditary right counted for far more with Highland gentlemen than almost any other factor in the conflict. They might kill and maim in battle but war was an extension of politics and their humane policy was an aspect of this. The Whigs did not accept that the Highlander as an anachronistic survival of a medieval way of life or the Jacobite as a spent irrelevant force had any right to the civi­lised approach to warfare that would be suitable in the war against France. Note the wide difference between the butchery and savagery meted out to the Highlander and the civilised exchange of French and Spanish soldiers captured in the same conflict, even when many of these were, in fact, Scots and Irish serving under Continental colours.

  Glasgow September 26th. From Itinerary of Prince Charles, page 18 - footnote. "Decla­ration on oath by Andrew Cochrane, Provost of Glasgow at the bar of the House of Commons - 'That soon after the battle of Preston - viz. 26th Septr - John Hay, writer to the signet, came to Glasgow with a party of horse, and was met there by Glengyll, chief of the M'Gregors, with a great part of that Clan.' An additional remark in the same source states that a demand for £15000 was com­promised to £5000 in cash and £500 in goods. The scene which I set in this chapter was taken from Fullartons Gazetteer of Scotland, published in 1845.

  I also make the point of John Hamilton of Bardowie being in business in Glasgow. This is imagination, but the men who made Glasgow the commercial and industrial centre that it became were largely drawn from the gentlemen farmers of the hinterland during the eighteenth century. Glasgow's fortune was made from the Tobacco, cotton and slave trade. Bardowie’s son was a ship-master and ship-owner of Greenock in the 1780s.

  Edinburgh. October 2nd. The description of Edinburgh is almost word for word from Defoe in 1727. James Hamilton was a poet in Ed
inburgh, and a noted Jacobite, who had to go into hiding after the rising. MacPharrie's account mentions the meeting in David Murray’s in Cougal, somewhere in Edinburgh, where the officers were named.

  Crieff October 8th. The Annual Crieff tryst took place on the second Tuesday in October. I have no evidence that Glengyle sold cattle that year, but it has to be highly likely. The tryst did take place in 1745 despite the rising. Thirty thousand head of cattle were sold each year at Crieff in the 1740s. Thereafter the trade declined with the growth of the Falkirk tryst. Much of the trade was financed by bills of exchange due to the shortage of cash in circulation. In effect these were post dated cheques. Their value depended on people’s view of the solvency of the issuer. They would pass from hand to hand, often being discounted in the process. In a sense this is like modern Government or Commercial bonds, although less assured. The Royal Bank tellers did attend the tryst in order to facilitate credit.

  Doune October 26th. This chapter was written because Glengyle must have taken over his command at some point, I used it in order to quote his commission and two letters (actually dated 23rd and 26th October) to him at Doune. All three are given in History of Clan Gregor page 378 and 379.

  Doune November 1st. Rob brings recruits which the History of Clan Gregor mentions Glengyle bringing in about this time. I do not know whether Robert married Jean Stewart before or after the '45, or when Duncan was actually born, (somewhere between 1746 and 1750) so why not put it here. I was personally charmed by the chamber at the top of the gate tower when I visited Doune, hence the words I put in Jean's mouth. Anderson states in The Scottish Nation that the Stewarts of Balquhidder are descended from the Dukes of Albany who built Doune.

  The Gaelic poem, for which I give a full English translation, is typical of the bardic tradition of the Highlands. Heroic poetry of this nature would have been declaimed around the fire at night for many centuries before the '45, although the tradition had largely died out by the end of the century. This particular one is the eulogy for John Dubh MacPhadruig of Glenstrae 1440-1519, chief of Clan Gregor, which is included in the Book of the Dean of Lis­more, compiled in the early sixteenth century.

  Cowal November 6th. Fergusson of Kilkerran states on page 42 of Argyll in the '45 that "Gregor MacGregor of Glengyle, a tall, handsome, elderly man who was .... On 6 November he marched into Cowal with a small force of MacGregors to raise recruits for the Jacobite army. His proposed route was across Cowal by the head of Glen Daruel to Castle Lachlan, where, no doubt, Auchinbreck was to join him; but he was of too romantic a nature to keep his plans to himself, and at Lochgoilhead he talked of them freely to one Duncan Campbell, who on 7 November wrote details of them to a friend in Inveraray. Glengyle had airily affirmed that his intentions were to 'midle in nothing noe furtheir than to wait upon certain gentlemen in this country', but Jack Camp­bell anticipated that civility. With his three companies of Loudoun's regiment he crossed Loch Fyne, intercepted Glengyle on 10 November, and drove him back eastwards. One private of Loudoun's was killed, but Glengyle lost two killed, fourteen wounded, and twenty-one taken prisoner. This tiny action was the first success of the Government troops since Prestonpans."

  Seamus Campbell MacGregor was Glengyle's piper. He was arrested after the rising and executed at Carlisle. The pipe tunes and slogans that I quote in various places are taken from Adam and Learney, The Clans, Septs and Regiments of the Scottish Highlands. The pinsel is a triangular banner also described by Adam & Learney.

  The route which I chose, apart from the factual visit to Lochgoilhead on the seventh, and the site of the fight at Ardno across Loch Fyne from Dun­derave Castle, are imaginary. There is no source I know of, which states the route Glengyle took, how far he went, how many men he had, or how many recruits he actually obtained. The names which I quote in this chapter are among the actual names of Glengyle's men captured at Ardno on the 10th as listed in Prisoners of the '45. I later came across a Gaelic poem, published in Bho Chluaidh gu Calasraid (From Clyde to Callendar) by Michael Newton – which includes a ‘Song of Praise to Gregor Glundubh’ in which he is praised for rescuing Malcolm MacGregor from ‘The township which is above you from which the powerful lead pellets came’ – a very Gaelic way of describing a fortress. Malcolm of Cornour and eight others, captured at Ardno are known to have escaped from Dumbarton Castle on 2nd February 1746. As I have not been able to corroborate the possibility that Glengyle rescued them, I have dramatised an account of the actual capture of Dumbarton Castle by Captain Crawford in 1571. The Castle was altered somewhat between 1571 and 1746. Substantial alterations took place later in the 18th century leaving it appears today. The Jacobite prisoners were accommodated in the Wallace tower on the North side as described. This semi-ruinous structure was demolished not long after and the postern gate walled up.

  Falkirk January 17th. This account of the battle is my dramatisation of the actual course of the Battle of Falkirk. I have followed the account as exactly as I can, from the point of view of a man in the right of the Jacobite front line. There is a contradiction in accounts. Macpharrie has the MacGregors on the right with Clan Donald facing the dragoons with the Glasgow militia behind them. Every other account has them on the left of the line with Lochiel and Ardshiel. I explained this by assuming that the clan were in two separate divisions at Falkirk. An account in Falkirk or Paradise, p109, by G Bailey suggests that Glencarnaig’s men were the first to the stream marking the limit of the moor, preventing the dragoons obtaining an advantage. Lord George Murray gave the MacGregors the honour of the right of the line.

  Route of Moy. February 16th. I am not quite sure where the Clan Gregor figured in the pursuit, although I would not expect them to be far behind the leaders. MacPharrie does not mention this episode. Apart from that this certainly took place. Loudoun intended to capture the Prince who was at Moy Hall with only a small escort. His men took to their heels when alarmed by Donald Fraser with just six men.

  Loudoun did not stop at Inverness. He left two companies to garrison the castle of Fort George which only held out until 20th February. I do not know what Clan Gregor did here. Certainly they were despatched shortly after­wards with the Earl of Kilmarnock by Beauly and Dingwall after Loudoun. Loudoun played cat and mouse with the Jacobites until 20 March. He was outnumbered and dared not fight, but he did cause them difficulties with their foraging.

  Tain. March 20th. MacPharrie’s account: "The Prince and Colonel O’Sullivan voted to send the MacGregors with Coll Ban Barrasdale his regiment and the Earl of Cromartie his regiment, in pursuit of Lord Loudoun which was a task as Lord Loudoun had taken all the boats within ten miles of him. We had to gather boats, twenty miles down the sea side, but got them at last. Then were ferried and we pursued Lord Loudoun, we came to the next ferry, Major Evan MacGregor got private information that there was a company of Lord Loudoun's men under Major MacKenzie at a village called Dornoch; The major made the regiment halt, and he picked a hundred good men, and marched before us to that village, and by the time the regiment came up to that place, Major MacGregor had Major Mackenzie prisoner and seventy men. We advanced on till we came to another ferry; it happened to be in that bay there were four small ships going with provisions to supply the forts, one with clothes, arms and ammunition, another with beef, pork, &c, and the other two with coals. The wind was against them and they could not move to the eastward; we began to fire on them with our small arms and we cut a good deal of their cords and as they foresaw that they could not make it better, and hoisted a white flag and ordered their small boats to carry us into the ship." There are other accounts which fill in further details about who was at Dornoch and so forth. Loudoun and Forbes had left on a tour up country and so escaped. Lord Sutherland cruised around in his little boat before being picked up by a sloop and taken to Aberdeen.

  Macintosh was actually delivered to his wife at Moy Hall, when pa­roled. She was honorary colonel and he a captain. There is probably a lot of truth in the belief that he would far r
ather have led a regiment on the Jaco­bite side. The same certainly went for MacLeod of Dunvegan who raised four of Loudoun's companies. The dirk at Lady Sutherland's breast is from an account in the Suth­erland Book.

  Sutherland 20-25 March. This paragraph is inserted to demonstrate that ordinary men in the Highlands who found themselves caught up in the rising, took sides entirely according to the politics of their Lords. The Earl of Sutherland was a strong supporter of Hanover and raised 6 companies. The men who served in these companies are listed in the Sutherland papers. I have no idea where Lieutenant Gunn's company was actually based, however, Dun Creich, a strong iron-age fortification that commanded wide views of the firth was used at this time. The two companies which Sutherland sent to Loudoun did end up at Culloden, with the Earl attending Cumberland. Three of his militia companies did take part in the battle at Golspie. I have not been able to find where the fourth, Clunes's company, was.

  From the Sutherland book 'Of the four ships taken at the Ferry Oons, in Captain Inglis's ship were a number of arms, which were taken out and sent in fifteen boats to Tain. The money in the ship was saved, for Captain Inglis escaped with it in a boat; only about £70 was left.'

  Tarbat/Cracaig March 28/29. I am not sure of the exact date but the MacGregors were ordered to burn these two houses when the militia captains did not surrender their weapons according to an agreement that the Jacobites thought had been made with them. To quote from MacPharrie again. "There came an express to the MacGregors and MacDonalds to burn the factor's house and barn and put them to ashes; we were not pleased with this work, we would fight rather than burn his house, his Lady and children were in the fever at the time. We were ordered to carry out all the plenishings and furniture and set them in the close, the beds and bedclothes in the middle of the plenishing, we moved the lady and children and set them in their beds and kept a guard that nothing should be stolen or carried away .... This factor lay on the hill, himself and his men looking on all the time'

  There is a statement in Prisoners of the '45 that Glengyle - John MacGregor alias Graham was captured at Dunrobin. This is untrue. There was a John MacGregor listed among the captives on the 'Hawk' sloop. He was not trans­ferred to the 'Hound' sloop with the other officers. MacPharrie clearly states that Glengyle returned to Balquhidder with his men. Also the History of Clan Gregor indicates that John MacGregor, son to Gregor, who actually was Glengyle at this time, had been arrested before the rising and was not released until afterwards. Gregor was exempted from amnesty, but does not appear to have been captured or otherwise punished. Glencarnaig surrendered himself in September 1746 and was released in 1749.

  The route that the MacGregors took on their way home is taken from Macpharrie.

  Appendix_1

  SRO Ref GD 220/6/1661/1

  Depositions in July 1746 from tenants in Buchanan

  11 July Duncan Graham in Auchrie declares that sometime in October last when Glengyle went to Doun, he saw Glengyle at the Bridgend of Aberfoile with about 50 or so men that were going along with him to the Castle of Doun, amongst whom was Alex Graham in Caillness. This was upon a Sunday. And upon the Wednesday or Thursday thereafter he saw him at his own house in Inchrie. And asking him how it came that he staid so short a time at Doun and how his Colonel was He an­swered that he did not know for that he had left him the night before without taking leave. And further declares that having asked him if he was going back again, He answered that he would never go back but by force.

  (signed Du Grahame)

  Eo: dieAlexander Graham in Auchrie Declares that he was present with the above Duncan Graham his father on the Sunday when Glengyle was at the Bridgend of Aberfoill. And likewise at Inchrie upon the Wednesday or Thursday thereaf­ter, When the said Alex Graham came back from Doun and heard what pass'd be­twixt him and his father which he declares was conform to what his said father has declared.

  (signed Alexr Grahame)

  Eo: dieAlexander McNicle in Wester Frenich Declares that the day when Glengyle was carrying the sogers, who had been taken upon the boats, to Perth, James Graham in Ashlan came to the Declarants house in Wester Ffrenich early in the morning and told him that having been along with the party that was con­ducting the said sogers he had diverted from them that night at Achray; Does not remember that he had any arms with him. And told him that he had been press'd against his will and that he raither gave all that he had as be oblig'd to go again with them. Declares further that James McKeoch in Clachbuie came to the declarant's house about twenty four hours after the other who told him that he had likewise been upon the same party. And had deserted them at Achray. That he had no arms. And that he told him that he had been press'd against his will and would never go with them again unless they bound him. Declares further that he knows nothing particular as to any other persons beside the two beforemen­tioned. Yet it was generally talk'd and believed that such of those persons as were any ways concerned with Glengyle were press'd against their will to his service. And that as he lives in the neighbourhood of that country, He knows that none of them went with him to the North Country.

  (signed Alexr Mcnicle)

  Eo: dieAndrew Mcfarlan in Sallachy Declares that about the beginning of September about night falling, observing a man in the wood whom he suspected of some bad design, he went and apprehended him. And being a person unknown to him he brought him into his house and examin'd him. Who inform'd him that having beeb press'd to go along with the sogers who had been made prisoners on the other side of Lochlomond he had deserted them at Achray a little before day and was hyding himself in the wood for fear of being taken again. Thereupon the declarant hid him in his own house till towards the morning that he went home­wards, telling him at the same time that if he got safe home he would defy them to get hold of him again for a month. And that he told him, and was afterwards inform'd that his name was John McDonald in Ashlan. The decalarant further says that as he lives not far from Craigroystan it was the general opinion of him and all his neighbours that such of the township of Craigroystan as had been any ways accessory in the late rebellion had been forc'd to it by Threats in sofar as they durst not keep their own houses but for the most part were oblig'd to conceal and hide themselves.

  (signed Andrew M'farlen)

  Eo: dieJohn Mcmurrich in Ruskenoch Declares that he was present when Glen­gyle threaten'd Duncan Blair in Ruskoish to go along with him over the Loch but that he declar'd he had rather be shot as go and so staid at home. That he was not present when he was (Duncan Blair) taken to go to Doun. But that he knows that not only the said Duncan Blair but all the rest of his neighbours in Craigroistan were forced by threats to do as they did. And at several times were taken from their own houses by partys for that purpose. And that he him­self was obliged for a long time to conceal himself in the hills and leave his own work at home undone. And at last was obliged to pay money to get liberty to stay at home in peace.

  Declares as to John McNeill, Robert Mcfarlan and John Mcmurrich in Knockoild. That he does not remember that he was present at any time to see the force that was put upon them. But they being in the toun next to himself he was informed and believes it for a truth that they were threatned to have the doors of their house built up with stones, then burnt, and their cattle carry'd off, which were the threats commonly us'd against all the rest as well as them if they did not rise. And that he was witness that as oft as they were carry'd away they all desert'd and came back.

  As to John and Duncan Mcmurrich in Easter Ruchoish and Hew Mcgrigor in Wester Ruchoish. Declares that he saw partys who were sent to raise the men but that he was not present to hear what threats were us'd. But in general he was perswaded that they were compell'd to go, they and their neighbours having told him so.

  (signed John Mcmurich)

  Eo: dieDougall Campbell in Stukintibert. Declares that about Christmas last he was in the house of Duncan Mcfarlan in Knockoild, father to Robert Mcfarlan when a party came and us'd such severe threats of burn
ing the house and carrying off the father's cattle if the Rob saidert did not go along with them. That the decalarant verily believed he would see the same put in execu­tion. Notwithstanding of which the Rob saidert positively refused to go and at that time staid at home, his father being an old man was not fit for service and therefore was not desired to go. The declarant afterward was engaged in the Argyleshire militia and so had not occasion to be an eye-witness to any more in that country. But was told that the Rob saidert was afterwards apprehended and obliged to find Baill to appear again; And appearing was carryd to Doun from whence he deserted in about three days.

  (Dougal X Campbells mark)

  Eo: dieMalcolm Mcfarlan in Fferkin Declares that about the beginning of November he was in the house of Duncan Mcmurrich in Easter Rouchoish when a party of Rebells came to the said Duncan's house and threatn'd to build up the door of his house with stones and carry away his Cattle unless he would go along with them - which he refus'd and did not go with them.

  (Malcolm Mcfarlane)

  Eo: dieAlex Mcneill in Letterinsken Declares that as to Findlay McCallum in Stronalachar he saw him after he had deserted - going home without arms. But can say nothing further with his own knowledge.

  Declares that Duncan McCallum in Clachbuy came to his house and staid with him a night after deserting from the rebells and then told him that he had been forced out.

  (Declares he cannot write)

  Eo: dieJohn Mcfarlan in Inversnait Declares that as to Duncan Blair in Wester Rouchoish he was never present to hear any threats or force us'd against him but heard that all the country said so.

  Declares that as to James Graham alias Gregor Mcgregor in Rouchoish he knows no more but by the General Report of the Countrey and his own belief That he and all the rest of the Countrey were under force and compulsion.

  Declares that as to James Mckeoch in Clachbuy and James Graham in Ashlan he saw them after they deserted and that he saw a letter from James Moir MgGregor adressed to Glengyle desireing him to use them very roughly for their said desertion.

  (signed John Mcfarlan)

  Eo: dieMalcolm Mcfarlan in Knockoild Declares that in October last a party of the rebells came to Knockoild and threatn'd to burn the house of John McNeill John Mcmurrich and Duncan Mcfarlan, tenants there and drive away their cattle unless they went along with them. That the said John McNeill, John Mcmurrich and Robert Mcfarlan, son to the said Duncan Mcfarlan, were taken out of their own houses under cloud of night and carried prisoners to Inversnait and from thence to Doun from whence after staying two nights, they deserted and returned home.

  (And he declares he cannot write)

  Eo: dieMalcolm Mcfarlan in Over Gartencaber Declares that about the begin­ning of Decem'r last he happened to be in Rowchoish when James Moir McGregor sent two men in arms from the garison to Rowchoish threatening to take from James Graham alias McGregor and John Mcmurrich tenants there, all that they had unless they went that night or early next morning to the Garison of Inversnait. But that they refused.

  (signed Malcom Mcfarln)

  Eo: dieRobert Graham in Stronachlachar Declares that Ffinlay Mccallum his subtenant there, was several times threaten;d by the rebells to have the door of his house built up with stones and his cattle carried off unless he would join them and that he was at length obliged to go with them over the loch when the sogers were surprized. But returned to his own house that same night when they came back to Inversnait. That he was afterwards carried to Doun but did not stay above two or three nights when he again came home. And was never further concerned in the Rebellion to the Declarant's knowledge.

  And as to Donald Mcrimmon, Miller in Stronachlachar Declares he was forced against his will to go to Doun with the Rebells. But deserted the second night he was there and returned to his own house. That he was never further concerned in the Rebellion to his knowledge.

  (signed Ro: Grahame)

  Eo: dieDuncan Graham in Wester Portnellan Declares that Malcolm McCallum, John Mackeich & Donald Murray, tenants in Easter Portnellan and John Graham, cotter there were threatn'd by James Moir McGregor to have the doors of their houses built up, then burnt, themselves ty'd and their cattle carried off unless they joint him with the rebells. That when they were carrying the sogers from Inversnait to Perth, the above named tenants and their said cotter went out of the way and hid themselves least they had been taken up. But were got and carry'd along that same day. and keep'd with the rebells till four days before the Battle of Preston when they all deserted and came home.

  (signed Duncan Grahem)

  Eo: dieJohn McCallum in Wester Portnellan Declares that the haill tenants in Easter Portnellan above named, their cotter and his son were all threaten'd to rise as mentioned in the above declaration and deserted before Preston.

  J M

  Eo: dieWilliam Mcfarlan in Glashart Declares that Duncan Graham in Easter Corriearclet having been in arms with the rebells against his will as he was informed. The said Duncan deserted from them and stay'd a night in the declar­ants house as he was returning home.

  (mark of William Mcfarlan)

  16 JulyDonald McQueen in Kinlewood, the duties officer whose business it is to collect the cess. Declares that being at Inversnait for that purpose when the rebells had just returned from the other side of the Loch att surprizing the sogers who were working upon the roads. he saw Duncan Blair in Wester Ruchoish at the gate of the barrack, and heard James moir Mcgregor threatening him, if he would not stay in the barrack, which the said Duncan refused to do; and that the said James at last consented to let him go home; if he would leave his sword as a pledge that he would return again, which he refus'd to do.

  (signed Donald McQueen)

  Appendix_2

  SRO REF GD220/6/1661/3

  Att Buchanan this twenty sixth day of June One 1746.

  Depositions from tenants on the Montrose Estate.

  Wester Rowchoish. Duncan Blair in Wester Rowchoish Declares that when the rebells first took possession of the castle of Doun. He was forced against his will to go along with them where he staid two or three days at most and then got leave to come home, and never returned again. Nor was ever desired. That he got no money, nor arms but went all the while with a staff in his hand; and this is all the part that he had in the late rebellion.

  Donald McQueen can testify how the declarant was threatened at the garrison of Inversnait when he went there to get himself excused from joining. John McMurrich in Ruskenoch and John Mcfarlan in Inversnait can wit­ness for him.

  Rowchoish. James Graham, alias Gregor McGregor, tenant in Rowchoish Declares that at the time when Glengyle went over the Loch to apprehend the sogers - who were upon the roads. he having occasion to carry all the spare men along with him and came down to Craigroystan and forced him and several others of the inhabitants there to go to the Barracks to supply the place of the men he had taken from thence, where the declarant remained for one night only and came away when Glengyle left it next day.

  Declares that about Hallowmas last there was a party sent to him and the neighbourhood threatening to burn their houses and he was then obliged to go alongst with them to Doun and there was with the rest of them who keep'd garrison in the Castle for about fourteen days when he came away without leave leaving behind him a sword which was all the arms that was given him.

  Declares that besides those instances he was never further concerned. And that at no time ever any guns or other arms were given him. And that he has no arms of his own at present, But that he had a gun of his own which the rebells took from him and he knows not where it is.

  The declarant appeals to Duncan McMurrich in Stuknarey and John Mcfarlan in Inversnait for the truth of what he declares, as likewise Malcolm Mcfarlan in Knockoild and Duncan Mcfarlan in Knockoild.

  Cailness. Alexander Graham tenant in Cailliness Declares that on the morning of the day on which Glengyle went over the Loch and surprized the sogers on the roads. He was sent for by Glengyle as he judged to speak
to him concerning some of their own private affairs. And meeting him at Letteray he was forced along with him to the port of Inversnait where he and several others were put on board two several boats and carry'd down the Loch and landed a little below Inveruglas.

  Declares that he and several of the men had no arms with them at all; only had their staffes in their hand. That they went from the shoar to Cantires (Note: Kintyre = Cowal peninsula) where the sogers submitted without any opposition. That they made no stay on the other side of the Loch but came away immediately next morning. So that the declarant was out on that expedition only about 16 or 18 hours, having returned to his own house immediately after their landing on this side of the Loch.

  Declares afterwards there were several messages and threat­enings sent for him and his neighbours to join Glengyle and put themselves under his command. That having had occasion about that time to come down the Countrey about his private affairs he came to Buchanan and informed Gorthy of the distress and apprehensions he and his neighbours were under from those threats. That Gorthy advised him (as well as some others whom he had then occasion to speak with) to take no notice of those threats but to keep at home and by no means to engage with Glengyle and that accordingly he did stay at home till about Hallowmas when a party was sent for him under night and carry'd him from his own house straight to the Castle of Doun where he remained three days and the fourth night he made his escape and came straight home and was never any further concerned except the two above particulars.

  Declares that he never had money, hyre or arms delivered to him. And that even while in the Castle of Doun where there was provisions laid in for the Garison there, he refused to be subsisted by those provisions but rather choos'd to buy provisions for himself, as several others did.

  The declarant appealls to Duncan and Alexander Graham in Inchrie for further proof of his being compelled & carry'd prisoner to Doun having told them so as he was carry'd thither, and all his neighbours can testify that he and they were several nights that they did not go to bed for fear of being taken away.

  Knockoild. John McNeill Robert Mcfarlan and John Mvmurrich all in Knockoild Declare, all three, that they were taken prisoners in their own houses under cloud of night and carry'd in a boat to Inversnait and from thence to the Castle of Doun, about three or four days before Hallowday last where the above Robert Mcfarlan staid two nights and the other two persons three nights, and then made their escape and came home. And were no further concern'd at any time.

  They all declare that they went to Doun without any arms but when there had arms delivered them, which arms when they made their escape they left there.

  Declare that they received no money nor hyre, for their service. That one day the serjeand maintain'd them, and for the next they bought victuall for themselves. And it was told them that next day they were to receive pay But the night before, finding an opportunity they made their escape and so never got any pay.

  They appeal to John Mcmurrich in Ruskennoch and Duncan Mcfarlan in Knockoild for the truth of what they declare. And Robert Mcfarland condescends on one Dougal Campbell in Stuckintibert, who was in the house when the party apprehended him which Dougal was since one of the Argyleshire mili­tia. And they say that Pat. Mcfarlan at Miln of Arrochy, Duncan Hunter in Sallachy saw the declarants in hiding for fear of being apprehended by the rebells.

  Rowchoish. John and Duncan Mcmurrichs in Easter Rowchoish and Hew McGregor in Wester Rowchoish Declares that a party under the command of Glen­gyle came and seized the boat of Rowchoish and carry'd the declarants along with him prisoners to the other side of the Loch without letting them know upon what account he did so. That the said Duncan was left at the loch side to take care of the Boat which belong'd to himself, When Glengyle went to the Cantire, And after the men were surprized he was ordered by Glengyle to carry some things which belong'd to the sogers such as meall and spirits which he did, And return'd in the same boat to Inversnait, and was no sooner there than he re­turned to his own house. Where he staid till he was brought by another party of Glengyle's men about two days thereafter to assist in carrying the sogers to an Jile in Loch Katrine, which done he returned again to his own house. That having occasion to be up the Loch with his boat sometime thereafter he was compelled by Glengyle to carry him and a party of his men to the Tarbat. And was obliged when there to go with them to Castle Lachlan, (Note: head of Glendaruel in Cowal, seat of Campbell of Auchinbreck - a Jaco­bite sympathiser who Glengyle hoped to persuade to come out) and made his escape from him there before Glengyle returned. And was not with him when Glengyle was attacked. (Note: attack by General John Campbell & Argyle militia at Ardno 15/11/45) . Since which time he was no ways concerned in the rebellion. Declares he never received any money or hyre nor had any arms given him. That he had nothing but his own sword when he went to Castle Lachlan, happening to have it with him when he was taken, which sword being all the arms he has, is now deliverd up to Mr Robert Mcfarlan, minister in Buchanan. Conform to his declaration in the Declarants custody. Andrew Mcfarlan in Tarbat and George Mcfarlan in Ardvorlich were present at Tarbat and saw the declarant threaten'd and compelled by Glen­gyle to go along with him as above said.

  The first and third declare that when they were brought to the other side of the Loch, they were marched to the Cantires and were ordered to guard the door while Glengyle was within with the Sogers. That one of the sogers guns was given to the said Hugh, which he brought to Inversnait and left it there and went home to his own house that same night. John Mcmurrich having returned to his house as the boat touched at Rowchoish on the way to Inver­snait.

  That a little before Hallowday a party came to the houses of the said Hew and John, and threatn'd to burn them unless they went instantly with them. That they were carried first to Inversnait (where Hew had a gun given him) and from there to the Castle of Doun where they remained three nights amd then found menas to escape. That they received no pay nor arms except the said gun which was left in the Castle of Doun. But had victualls given them by a sergeant while they staid there.

  They appeall to John McMurrich in Ruskenoch, Duncan Mcfarlan in Knockoild, That not only the declarants but the whole tenants in Craigroys­tan had the above threatenings given them.

  Ashlan. James Graham and John McDonnald in Ashlan Declare that as Glengyle came down the Loch with his boats in order to apprehend the sogers on the roads, He sent a party down by land who forced the two declarants into a boat at Rowchoish, and carried them to the Cantines where they remain'd till the party with the prisoners return'd. And came home to their own houses that same night. That some days after as Glengyle was carrying the prisoners to Perth they were again apprehended and obliged to go as far as Achray with them where they deserted.

  That about the middle of October they were carry'd prisoners to Doun where they remained two or three days and then made their escape.

  That when Glengyle went to Argyleshire he forced them again to go alongst with him and return'd with him, were present when Glengyle was attacked and at that time made the best of their way home. And in all those different events they had no arms neither of their own nor given them. Never received pay nor had any further concern that what is mentioned above.

  They severally appeal to Alexr McNeill in Wester Ffrenich and Andrew Mcfarlan in Sallachy for the truth of what they declare and which is notour to all their neighbours.

  Rowkoish. Andrew Blair in Rowchoish Declares that about the middle of October last he was servant with Donald Blair in Claichvraick his brother when Glengyle sent a party to apprehend his said brother who hapning to be much indisposed at the time they took the declarant in his stead and carry'd him prisoner to Doun where he staid five days but took neither money nor arms from them and then deserted.

  That when Glengyle went to Argyleshire the Declarant was compelled to go with him but neither received arms or money and made his escape when Glengyle return'd. Staying with his brother till about Christmas when he was again taken pr
isoner and brought back to Doun and detained about twenty days. And having nothing to subsist himself was necessitated to take money from the rebells and do duty within the castle but finding an opportunity made his elopement in the night time, and keep'd out of their reach ever since. He appeals for the truth of this to the whole neighbourhood.

  Glackbuy. Pat. Mcintyre in Glackbuy James Mckeoch and Duncan Mccallum there Declare that the same day on which Glengyle surprized the garrison at Inversnait he sent a party and apprehended the declarants and carried them to the barracks where the said Duncan Mccallum and Patrick Mcintyre were left till his return and they staid there till the sogers were brought to Lochcatrin. That James Mckeoch was carry'd over the Loch with him when the sogers on the roads were taken, but had no arms, and returned to his own house that same night.

  That they were threatn'd to be hang'd and have their houses burnt unless they went with Glengyle to Argyleshire. And when they were com­pelled to go, Duncan Mccallum having run off by the way was fired at afterwards taken. That all the three were forced to go with them, without arms, and on their return Mckeoch returned home and never joined them more. And Mcintyre and Mccallum after being detained about eight days in the garrison did likewise.

  That before they were ferried to Argyleshire as above, they were apprehended and brought to Doun where Duncan Mccallum staid two night, Mckeoch seven and Mcintyre the like nights they having deserted separatly, how soon they found the means to escape.

  That they never received either money or arms from the rebells, only were maintained by them while they were detained in Inversnait and Doun.

  They appeal to Alexr. McNeill in Wester Ffrenich, John Mcfarlan in Inversnait, Robt. Graham in Cloichvraik and all their loyall neigh­bours for the truth of what the declare.

  Stronachlachar. Findlay Mccallum in Stronaclachar Declares that he was several times importuned by Glengyle to join him on his taking up arms against the Government, but positively refused. Whereupon a party was sent for him and by which he was carry'd along with Glengyle when he surprized the sogers on the Roads. That he had no arms, neither in going or returning. And on coming back to Inversnait he deserted and went to his own house.

  That a little before Hallowday he was again taken by another party and carry'd to Doun, but found means to make his escape the second night, and never after had the least accession to the Rebellion. That he never had money nor arms given hims. And having his whole cattle taken from him, was advised he could get them back upon delivering up his arms to the minister of the parish and submitting himself to the King's mercy. He bought a gun, having no arms of his own, and delivered it to Mr Robt. Mcfarlan, minister of Buchan­an. conform to his declaration thereanent. He appeals for the truth of what he Declares to Alexr. McNeill in Wester Ffrenich, Alexr McNeill in Letterinshen and Robert Graham in Stronachlachar.

  Stronachlachar. Donald Mackrimmon, miller in Stronachlachar Declares that a little before Hallowday last a party of the Rebells apprehended him at his own house and brought him prisoner to the Castle of Doun. That he found means to escape upon the second night after he came there. Never received either money or arms and had no other accession to the rebellion than the above. And yet his house and whole plenishing was burnt and all his cattle was carry'd away by the military.

  E. Portnellan. John Mckeoch Malcolm Mccallum and Donald Murray all in Easter Portnellan Declare that the were forced by a party of Glengyle's men to join them, when the carry'd the sogers from Lochcatrine to Crieff and were detained there till the rebells come to that town two days thereafter.

  That they were forc'd and compell'd by James mor Mcgregor to go along with the rebels till they came to Corstorphin where they deserted, there leaving the guns they had got by the way, and returned and lurked near their own houses lest they had been brought back again.

  That a few days before Glengyle went to Argyleshire they were again taken by a party of his men and carry'd to Doun. And compelled to go with him in that expedition. And afterwards returned to Doun. And found means to desert the night immediately before the Battle of Falkirk when the likeways left their arms and returned home.

  They appeal to Duncan Graham and John Mccallum in Wester Portnellan and all their neighbours for the truth of what they declare. They acknowledge they received subsistence from the Rebells.

  NB The Declarants had their houses burnt and all their Cattle taken away by the miltary.

  Clachbuy. Gregor McGregor in Clachbuy Declares that he never had accession to the Rebellion except in the two following instances. The first was when Glengyle first took possession of the Castle of Doun when he stay'd about eight days. The next was about the middle of November but does not remember how long he staid. That the first time they met him accidentally upon the way, forced him along with them and made him carry a gun. The second time he was forced out of his own house and carry'd to Doun. That at both times he made his escape and came home. That while he was there provisions were given him but got no pay.

  He appeals to Alexr. McNeill in Wester Ffrenich with whom he staid a night each time he deserted, and told him the distress he was in; Because he did not know where to go for fear of being apprehended in the coun­try as he passed by reason of the service he has been in.

  And the said Alex Mcneill being present at the time of emitting this declaration, He attests the verity thereof insofar as is appealed to him.

  Stucknarey. Duncan Mcmurrich in Stucknarey Declares that at the begin­ning when Glengyle went over the Loch to apprehend the sogers on the roads he was forced to go along with them and stay with them about four days and then deserted. And that afterwards he might stay peacably at home he compounded and paid five pounds Stg. and was never troubled after that.

  He appeals to Andrew Mcfarlan for the truth of this who was present when he paid the five pounds. As likeways to Jo. Mcfarlan in Inver­snait, and the said John Mcfarlan being present Declares the same to be true.

  Inversnait. Robert Mcfarlan in Inversnait Declares that he was compelled tp go with Glengyle to surprize the sogers on the roads. And afterwards to go with him to Argyleshire. But had never any other accession to the Rebellion save thes two particulars nor did he ever receive any arms or pay from them.

  He appeals to William Mcqueen in Kittlewood and Robert Mckeoch in Caller for the truth of what he alledges. Who being both present declare that they were present at the garison when they heard Glengyle give very hard words to the Rob saidert because he refused to go with them. And both witnesses declare that they were afraid from the words that past of the Rob saidert's coming to some mischief.

  Easter Corriearclet. Duncan Graham subtenant in Easter Corriearclet Declares that he weas subtenant to Glengyle and was employed by him as a watchman for keeping the countrey and being in that connection with Glengyle it was not easy for him to resist his orders of whatever kind. And therefore the most he can do for proof of his unwillingness to go into the rebellion is to adduce evidence that he deserted. And in evidence of what is above, he appeals to William Mcfarlan in In Glashart and Alex Mcneill in Wester Ffrenich and Alex Graham in Brachorn and Thomas Graham officer in Menteith.

  Stuckavick. Neill Mcneill in Stuckavick Declares that he was forced by Glengyle to go with him to Doun where after a week's stay he deserted and returned home. That he got victuales while there but received no pay. That afterwards he was taken by Glengyle and carry'd with him to Argyleshire and on his return deserted again. And except those two instances he never had the least accession to the rebellion. And declares that many nights before he was forced out, he fled from place to place that he might not fall into Glengyle's hands and hid himself.

  Appeals for the truth of what is above to John Graham in Dunvery John Drummond and John Graham both in Backborland of Drummond and all the neighbourhood.

  Claddock. Malcolm Mcfarlan in Claddock Declares that he was forced by Glengyle to go with him to the other side of the Loch when the sogers were taken on the roads. And in a few days after as they were carr
ying them to Perth. He deserted at the west end of Lochcatrin and returned home till he was afterwards forced to go with Glengyle to Argyleshire. Which two instances was all the accession that he had to the rebellion. Except that he was keep'd about eight days against his will in the barracks at Inversnait.

  He appeals to John Mcfarlan in Inversnait and the haill neighbourhood for the truth of what is above. And the said John Mcfarlan being present declares that the next day after the sogers were taken he heard the said Malcolm Mcfarlan positively refuse to be concerned in the rebellion.

  West Corriearclet. Findlay Mccallum Declares that he was Glengyle's subtennat in the fourth part of Wester Corriearclet And that he was threatn'd to have his house burnt and all he had taken from him unless joined the rebells. That he was afterwards taken by a party when the sogers were carried to Crieff and keep'd with them for about twenty days till Glengyle took possession of the Castle of Doun. And then he found means to make his escape and come home where he staid till he was again taken by a party and carry'd into Argyleshire and upon their return deserted a second time and was never more concerned in the rebellion.

  He appeals to Dougal Keir in Letteray and the haill neigh­bourhood for the truth of what is above. And the said Dougal Keir being present, Declares he heard Glengyle threaten the said Findlay as above.

  Dow of Glengyle. Patk. Mccallum Declares that he was herd to John Graham younger of Glengyle in the Dow of Glengyle last summer. And having gone to Glenfalloch in search of one of his masters stotts was returning to Inversnait and not having heard that the barracks was taken by the rebells went there to buy some tobacco as he was in used to do. And immediately upon his entry he was made prisoner by them and detained that night, he deserted in the morning and returned to his service. But the lady Glengyle hearing he had been a night with the rebells turned him out of her service and so he became quite idle. And was afterwards taken up by Glengyle and keep'd by him for about twenty days against his will after which time he left them and was never further concerned except that he was brought to the Castle of Doun and deserted the third day.

  He appeals to Dougal Keir in Letteray and all the neighbour­hood for the truth of what is above. And the said Dougal Keir being present, acknowledges the same to be true.

  Wester Corriearclet. Donald Mccallum and John Mccallum Declare that they were subtenants to Glengyle in Wester Corriearclet. That they were forced by him to go over the Loch when the sogers were taken but deserted that night an their return to Inversnait. That they were afterwards taken by a party and carried to Crieff and staid with the rebells about twenty days when they deserted and came home. That they were again taken and brought to Doun and deserted the sixth day. Since which they have lived peacably at home and were no further concerned in the rebellion.

  They appeal to all the neighbours for the truth of what is above.

  Letteray. John Mccree cottar in Letteray Declares he was forced and compelled by Glengyle to go with him over the loch when the sogers were taken but deserted when they came to Inversnait. That he was afterwards taken and brought to Doun where he staid ten days and then made his escape. But was afterwards taken and carry'd to Argyleshire, on his return he was made prisoner in Inversnait, fed on bread and water, and had guns tied to his feet because he would not go to Doun. And at last at the sollicitation of one Mcintyre, a surgeon, who attended James mor Mcgregor there, he was dismissed. And was never further concerned. Nor was he at any of the battles.

  He appeals to Dougal Keir in Letteray and all the neighbour­hood for the truth of what is above. And the said Dougal Keir being present, declares it to be true.

  George Mcfarlan in Ardvorlich Declares that he was at Tarbat when Glengyle went with a party to Castle Lachlan, and at that time Duncan Mcmurrich in Easter Rowchoish was with Glengyle, but being forced out as the declarant then heard and believed. He the said Duncan fell behind the party designing to make his escape, but being discovered he was threatn'd and com­pelled by Glengyle to go along with them in that expedition. And further de­clares that as he lives in the neighbourhood and had occasion to be in heads of Menteith and Buchanan at the time of the late rebellion, he was credibly in­formed and believes it to be true that such of the Duke of Montrose's tenants there as were in arms were forced out by Glengyle very much contrary to their own inclinations.

  Appendix_3

  List of McGregors on Montrose Estate in 1745

  List of the families of the name Mcgregor who lived in the Duke of Montrose's Highland estate, at the time of the breaking out of the Rebellion. Distinguish­ing, 1), such as never were accessory to the rebellion; 2), such as by con­straint were accessory to some act of rebellion and have since submitted to the Kings mercy; 3), such as join'd and marched out of the country with the army of the rebells or were present in any battle, but have since submitted; 4), such as joined and marched as aforesaid and have not submitted.

  1 These who were never accessory to the rebellion

  John Graham, younger of Glengyle

  Robert Graham, his brother

  Alex Mcgregor a cottar in Ruskenoch

  John Mcgregor a cottar in Ruskenoch

  Gregor Mcgreor a cottar in Clachbuy

  Pat Mcgregor a subtenant in Innerald

  Robt Mcgregor cottar in Corriearclet

  Malcolm Mcgregor herd in Ashlan

  Duncan Mcgregor subtenant in Wester Portnellan

  Gregor Mcgregor a cottar in Comer

  2 These who by constraint were accessory to some acts of the rebellion and have since submitted

  Gregor Mcgregor tenant in Ruchoish

  Alexr Mcgregor tenant in Caillness

  James Mcgregor subtenant in Ashlane

  Dougal Mcgregor tenant in Letteray

  Duncan Mcgregor cottar in Corriearclet

  John Mcgregor cottar in Easter Portnellan

  Alexr Mcgregor cottar in Cloichvraik

  3 These who joined and march'd out of the country with the rebell army and have since submitted

  Hugh Mcgregor subtenant in Rouchoish

  Malcolm Mcgregor in Corriearclet

  Donald Mcgregor subtenant in Easter Portnellan

  4 These who joined the rebell army and have not submitted

  Robert Mcgregor subtenant in Corriearclet

  John Mcgregor in Corriearclet

  James Graham elder of Glengyle

  James Drummond subtenant in Corriearclet

  We dont remember of above five more of that name in all the rest of the Duke of Montrose's estate.

  Appendix_4

  The Prisoners of the ‘45

  The Scottish History Society publication “Prisoners of the ’45,” while it includes errors regarding the MacGregors (such as the capture of Glengyle at Dunrobin as previously mentioned) is an invaluable source. I have changed the entry for Glengyle to read “Cromartie’s.” Obviously, only those involved in the Rising who came to the notice of the authorities are included, therefore the presence of only 19 MacGregors could be viewed as a success in their avoiding the consequences of involvement. However, as many would have used an alias such as Murray, Graham, Campbell or Drummond it is difficult to estimate actual numbers. “Prisoners of the ’45” lists only two as “Glencarnaig’s”and all the rest are “Glengyle’s” although if they were from Balquhidder, they probably followed Glencarnaig. It is noteworthy how varied the origins of some of Glengyle’s men are.

  Name, Regiment, Capt/prison, Disposal, Origin

  Ens.Mungo Campbell, Glengyle’s, Perth 23/3/47, DischargedCrieff

  James Cook, Glengyle’s, Ardno 15/11/45 Escaped 2/46

  Capt.John Drummond, Glengyle’s, Taken 10/8/46, Transported Balquhidder (nephew of Balhaldie)

  Donald Ferguson, Glengyle’s, Ardno, Escaped 2/46

  John Ferguson snr, Glengyle’s, Ardno, Escaped 2/46,Dunblane

  John Ferguson jnr, Glengyle’s, Ardno, Escaped 2/46, Dunblane

  Peter King, Glengyle’s, Ardno, Died 22/5/46

&
nbsp; John Livingston, Glengyle’s, Ardno, Freed 21/8/47, Ardnamurchan

  Donald M’Grigor, Glengyle’s, Ardno, Escaped

  Grigor M’Grigor, Glengyle’s, Ardno, Freed 47, Argyll

  Piper James M’Gregor, Glengyle’s, Carlisle, Transported -

  John M’Grigor, Glengyle’s, Ardno,Escaped, 2/46 -

  Capt Malcolm M’G, Glengyle’s, Leny 19/7/46, Discharged

  Malcolm M’Grigor, Glengyle’s, Ardno, Escaped 2/46 -

  Pat. M’G (Murray), Glengyle’s, Perth 5/46,AcquittedPerthshire

  John M’Callum, Glengyle’s, Ardno, Discharged, Inverness

  John M’Ighaill, Glengyle’s, Ardno,Discharged, Torosay

  Robert Mackay, Glengyle’s, Inverness, Discharged, Sutherland

  Duncan M’Lachlan, Glengyle’s, Dumbarton, 3/46, Escaped

  John M’Lellan, Glengyle’s, Ardno,Freed 47, Inverness

  Duncan M’Neill, Glengyle’s, Ardno, Escaped 2/46, Lochaber

  Ronald M’Nicol, Glengyle’s, Ardno, Freed 47, Glen Orchy

  Duncan M’G (Murray), Glengyle’s, 8/46, Acquitted, Perthshire

  Pat. M’G (Murray), Glengyle’s, Aberdeen 8/46, Transptd, Perthshire

  John Stewart, Glengyle’s, Perth 7/46,Discharged, Balquhidder

  Robert M’G (Murray), Glencarnaig’s,Inverary 1747, Released 49 GlenCarnaig (of Glencarnaig)

  John M’Gregor, Glencarnaig’s, Edin Infmy, Died, Balquhidder

  Maj. Evan M’Gregor, Glencarnaig’s, Balquhidder

  Mary M’Gregor, Keppoch’s, Carlisle, Discharged, Balquhidder

  John M’Gregor, Perth’s, Carlisle 12/45, Transported, Perthshire

  John M’Gregor, Perth’s, Br.Allan 10/45, TransportedPerthshire

  John M’Gregor, Perth’s, Perth, Execut.York,Perthshire

  Duncan M’Gregor, Lord J Murray’s, Perth 24/6/46 Acquitted

  Ens. Duncan M’Gregor, Farquharson’s, CullodenTransprtd,Tarland

  Gregor M’Gregor, Inverness, Escaped, Glen Moriston

  John M’Gregor, Barrisdale’s, Caithness, Discharged,Caithness

  Mark M’Gregor, Baggots Hussars, Perth 2/46, Transptd Balgowan

  John M’Gregor, Cromartie’s, Dunrobin,

  William M’Gregor, Cromartie’s, Dunrobin 4/46, Died, Caithness

  ( two Wm M’Griggers on the “Hawk” sloop of cromartie’s)

  Appendix_5

  The Muster Roll

  “The Muster Roll of Prince Charles Edward Stuart’s Army,” AUP 1984 only lists the MacGregor officers. I have reproduced that list here with some slight corrections and also the names of other MacGregors who appear with other formations. Obviously some of these names may occur in the list of Prisoners above.

  Colonel Gregor McGregor (Graham) of Glengyle

  Lt-Col John McGregor (Drummond) of Balnacuick - Transported

  Lt-Col Robert McGregor (Murray) of Glencarnaig -Surrd - Released

  Maj. Evan McGregor (Murray) (bro. Glencarnaig Taken, Pardoned

  Capt. Duncan McGregor (Murray) (bro. Glencarnaig), Taken, Acquit

  Capt. James Mor McGregor (Drummond), Escaped

  Capt. Malcolm McGregor of Cornour, Taken - Discharged

  Capt. Malcolm McGregor (Drummond) Craigruidhe,Died Gladsmuir

  Capt. Robt Og McGregor (Campbell?) , Escaped

  Capt. Ranald McGregor (Campbell?) of Kirktoun

  Std Bearer Duncan Mcpharrie, Pardoned

  Ensign Mungo Campbell, Crieff, Taken - Discharged

  Officer Coll McGregor (son of Rob Roy - (died 1735!) ????

  Officer Duncan McGregor (son of Rob Roy - probably not correct?)

  Piper James McGregor, Crieff, Taken - Transported

  MacGregor names in the musters of other Regiments

  Atholl Brigade:

  Capt. Gregor (Murray) of Coinneachan, Taken Feb 46

  Capt. Robert (Murray) of Ardlarich

  Lieut. Malcolm McGregor of Liaran

  Officer Duncan McGregor of Roro

  Officer John McGregor of Learagan

  Strathallan’s Horse - Haldane of Lanerick’s Troop

  James Mcgregor - servant to John, Balhaldie

  Duke of Perth’s - (includes some of Glengyle’s above)

  Capt. James Mor McGregor, (see above) Escaped

  Capt. Malcolm McGregor of Craigruidhe (above)Killed Gladsmuir

  Capt. Ronald McGregor of Kirkton (see above)

  Donald McGrigor

  John McGregor, Dundurn, Perthshire (above) T. Carlisle Transported

  John McGregor, Perthshire (see above), Executed York 8/11/46

  John McGregor, Perthshire (see above), Transported

  Cromartie’s

  Jn McGrigger (in “Hawk” sloop list)

  Wm McGregor (22), Caithness, Taken - died

  Ogilvy’s

  Donald McGregor, Town Officer, Coupar

  Glengarry’s

  Donald McGregor, Dalchuirn, Surrendered 5/5/46

  Gregor McGregor, (one of 7 men of Glen Moriston) Taken, esc 1747

  John McGregor, Caithness, Taken, discharged

  Keppoch’s (Volunteers - all joined Glengyle later)

  Duncan McGregor (Murray), West Drumlich

  John McGregor (Murray), Monachyl

  Patrick McGregor (Murray), East DrumlichTaken, acquitted

  Monaltrie’s

  John McGregor of Inverenzie, Killed Culloden

  Duncan McGregor, Tarland (bro. Inverenzie) Taken, transported

  Appendix_6

  SRO Ref 220/6/1662/12

  MacGregors in 1745 on Montrose Estate

  Wester Mains

  1 John McGregor, no ways concerned

  2 James, no ways concerned

  Arochliny

  3 Gregor, young man living with his mother - had a house & yard from tenant but no land, no ways concerned

  Ruskenoch

  4 Alex, cottar, about 20 years, old, not concerned

  East Rouchoish

  5 Gregor, tacksman, never joined rebells, submitted

  6 Alex, no fixed residence, joined Rebell army

  West Rouchoish

  7 Hew, cottar, joined rebell army, submitted

  8 John, cottar, old, no ways concerned

  Cailness

  9 Alex, tacksman, never joined army, but submitted

  Ashlane

  10 James, subtenant, never joined army, but submitted

  Clachbuy

  11 Gregor, wright & cottar, old & not concerned

  Letteray

  12 Dougall, Tacksman, had a cert. from minister not concerned in rebellion but afterwards delivered up what arms he had

  Innerald

  13 Patrick, subtenant, old, no ways concerned

  Corriearclet

  14 Duncan, subtenant, old, but has submitted

  15 Robert, subtenant, joined rebell army

  16 Robert, cottar and shoemaker, no ways concerned

  17 John, lived with mother, joined army

  18 Malcolm, bro of 17, joined army, has submitted

  Stronachlachar

  19 James(Glengyle), tacksman, joined rebell army

  20 Robert(son of Glengyle), no ways concerned

  Oselane

  21 Malcolm, a herd, no ways concerned

  West Portnellan

  22 Duncan, subtenant, no ways concerned

  East Portnellan

  23 Donald, subtenant, joined rebell army, has submitted

  24 John, cottar, old, never joined army, submitted

  Comer

  25 Gregor, cottar, old, no ways concerned

  Clachvraik

  26 Alex, cottar, never joined army, has submitted

  Corriearclet

  27 James Mor, joined rebell army

  Lednish

  28 Duncan, cottar, no ways concerned

  E Gartnabradnich

  29 Malcolm, noways concerned

  Appendix_7


  List of houses burnt in 1746

  Easter Portnellan

  Coll Campbell

  Donald Murray, house, barn, sheephouse

  Malcolm Mccallum, house, barn, sheephouse

  John mckeoch, house & barn

  John Graham, house & barn

  Wester Correrclet

  Donald Mccallum, house, barn, sheephouse

  Findlay Mccallum, house & barn

  John Mccallum jr, house & barn

  John Mccallum sr, house

  Katharin Mcintyre, house

  Patk Mccallum, house, barn, sheephouse

  James Mcgregor, house & barn

  Easter Correrclet

  Duncan Mcgregor, house & barn

  Duncan Graham, house & sheephouse

  John Ferguson, house & barn

  Katharin Mcfarlan, house barn & sheephouse

  Arch Mcintyre, house barn & sheephouse

  Robt Graham(blind), house

  Stronura

  Malcolm Mcfarlan

  Duncan Mccallum, house & barn

  Letteray

  Dougall Keir in his right, house barn & sheephouse

  John Mcneill, house

  Hew Mccallum, house

  Stronachlachar

  J Graham Glengyle

  Robert Graham, the miln

  Donald Mccrimmon, house & barn

  Patk Mccallum, house

  Dond Mcintyre(old), house

  Malc Mccallum(weaver), house

  Appendix_8

  BIBLIOGRAPHY

  Note: There is no general text which logically explains the role of the Clan Gregor in the ’45. However, the most comprehensive source, although it is heavy going for the general reader, is the “History of The Clan Gregor,” Volume II, by Amelia Murray MacGregor, originally published in 1901 and possibly available in good reference libraries. Most of the information in this paper has been gleaned from a variety of general histories of the Jacobite Rising and on the Clan. Some of these sources which I have consulted are listed below although not all of the books listed below may actually refer to Clan Gregor. In addition, there are unpublished estate papers and government records from which more information may yet come to light. I have consulted the Montrose Papers, the MacGregor Papers, and also a tiny fraction of the available military records covering the period at the Public Record Office at Kew. Papers rela­ting to the garrisons of Stirling and Edinburgh, and the subsequent occupation forces are at the PRO and may contain useful information though I have not been able to consult them. Estate papers relating to the Argyll, Breadalbane and Atholl estates could also be useful.

  Contemporary Published Sources

  Ray, James. Compleat History of The Rebellion, Bristol 1750

  The Scots Magazine, Edinburgh 1746 - A Newspaper digest

  Unpublished Documents

  The Montrose Papers, Scottish Record Office, Edinburgh

  The MacGregor Papers, Central Region Archives, Stirling

  The Sutherland Papers, National Library of Scotland

  At the Public Record Office, Kew, London

  Log of the HM Frigate “Sheerness,” ADM36

  Logs of the HM Sloops “Hawk” and “Hound” FO371/ADM51

  Log of Admiral John Byng on HM ship “Gloucester” ADM1

  Later Published Books

  Adam & Learney, Clans, Septs & Regiments, Johnston & Bacon

  Anderson, William The Scottish nation (3 vols), Fullarton 1869

  Bentinck, C.D. Dornoch Cathedral & Parish, Northern County 1926

  Blaikie, W.B. Itinerary of Prince Charles, Scot. Hist. Soc. 1897

  Blaikie, W B Origins of the Forty-five, Edinburgh 1916 and 1975

  Browne, James History of The Highland Clans, Edinburgh 1859

  Chambers, R History of The Rebellion of 1745-6, 1827 to 1934

  Cromartie, Earl of: A Highland History, Gavin Press 1979

  Daiches, David. Charles Edward Stuart, London 1973

  Dunbar, J.T. History of Highland Dress, Oliver & Boyd 1962

  Duke, Winifred Prince Charles Edward and the Forty-five, Lon1938

  Elcho, Lord Affairs of Scotland 1744-46, Edinburgh 1907

  Ewald, A C Life & Times of Prince Charles Stuart, London 1904

  Fairweather, B The ‘45 Jacobite Rising, Glencoe Museum 1979

  Francis, Grant Romance of the White Rose, London 1933

  Fraser, Sir W The Sutherland Book (3 vols), Edinburgh 1892

  Fullarton, Gazetteer of Scotland (2 vols), Fullarton 1845

  Gibson, J S, Ships of the ‘45, Hutchinson 1967

  Grant, Francis, Romance of the White Rose, London 1933

  Grant, I.F. Highland Folk Ways, Routledge 1961

  Home, John. History of The Rebellion in Scotland, Edinburgh 1822

  Lang, Andrew. Pickle the Spy, London 1897

  Livingstone, Muster Roll of Prince Charles Stuart’s army, AUP1984

  Logan, James. Clans of the Scot. Highlands, Ackerman 1845

  MacGregor, A M. History of The Clan Gregor, (2 vols) 1901

  Macgregor, F. Clan Gregor, 1977

  Macintosh, Murdoch. A History of Inverness, Highland News 1939

  MacKinnon, R. The Jacobite Rebellions, 1973

  MacLaren, Moray. Lord Lovat of the '45, Jarrolds, 1957

  MacLauchlan. Dean of Lismore's book, Edmonston 1862

  MacLeay, K. Historical Memoirs of Rob Roy, Edinburgh 1881

  MacLynn, Frank. Charles Edward Stuart, Routledge 1988

  MacLynn, Frank. France and the Jacobite Rising of 1745, Edin 1981

  Maxwell & Hutchison. Scottish Costume 1550-1850, Black 1958

  Murray, W.H. Rob Roy MacGregor, Richard Drew 1982

  Newton, Michael. Bho Chluaidh gu Calasraid, Acair, 2000

  Newton, Michael. Handbook of the Scottish Gaelic World, 2000

  Nimmo, W McG. History of Stirlingshire, 2nd edn, Stirling 1817

  Norie, W. Life & Adventures of Prince Charles Edwd Stuart, London

  Pennant, Thomas. Tour of Scotland in 1769, Melven 1979

  Rogers, Col H.C.B. Weapons of the British Soldier, Sphere 1972

  Rose, D Murray. Historical Notes, Edinburgh 1897

  Ross, Anne. Folklore of the Scot.Highlands, Batsford 1976

  Sage, Alexander. Memorabilia Domestica, Rae, Wick 1889

  Scott, Sir W. History of The Clan Gregor, Glasgow 1893

  Scott-Moncrieff. The 45 - To gather an image whole, Mercat 1988

  Seton & Arnot. Prisoners of the ’45 (3 vols), SHS Edinburgh 1929

  Tayler A & H. 1745 and After, Nelson 1938

  Tayler A & H. Stuart Papers at Windsor, John Murray 1939

  Terry, T S. The Last Jacobite Rising of 1745, London 1900

  Terry, T S. The Albemarle Papers, Aberdeen 1902

  Tomasson, K. The Jacobite General, Blackwood 1958

  Tranter, Nigel. The Fortified House in Scotland, Mercat Press 1977

  About the Author

  Peter grew up in Inverness, the Highland capital. He studied Science and Scottish History at the University of St Andrews. World famous as the home of golf, St Andrews is also home to Scotland's oldest University, founded in 1411. Peter took a part-time degree in Humanities with History at the Open University during the 1990s. This course included 'Modern Scottish History since 1707' and 'Family and Community History', which allowed the use of the substantial documentary sources collected over the years on some of his family origins in the Highlands. He then joined the Masters degree course run by the History department of the University of Dundee and graduated in 2003 with an MPhil for a dissertation on the Clan Gregor between 1583 and 1611. In 2004 he gained a certificate in Scottish Field Archaeology at the University of Glasgow and is a member of the Association of Certified Field Archaeologists. For many years he has been a member of the Scottish Genealogy Society, the Scottish History Society and is a Fellow of the Society of Antiquaries of Scotland. 

  Peter's interest in genealogy led to him joining the Clan Gregor Society,
where he has been, for many years, Vice-Chairman of Council and editor of the Society's Newsletter. He has written a number of papers for the Society including 'the early history of the Clan Gregor' and 'The Clan Gregor in the 1745 rising'. The MacGregor connection comes through his father's mother. After many years of genealogical research he is confident of his descent from Gregor ghlun dubh MacGregor of Glengyle, nephew of Rob Roy MacGregor. He is equally as proud of his descent from many other Highland clans. Peter has been involved in the MacGregor DNA project through FamilyTreeDNA of Arizona. As the Y-chromosome carries the family tree interest of DNA, Peter's nearest male MacGregor relative took the test, confirming his shared DNA with the Clan chief, Sir Malcolm MacGregor of MacGregor. A fascinating journey of discovery is in its early stages with the DNA project, illustrating both the genetic diversity within the clan, and the relationship of the leading families of Clan Gregor to other clans of Dalriadic origin.

  Future historical novels are being considered which deal with the lives of Gregor Roy MacGregor, executed in 1571 and Alasdair Roy MacGregor, his son and successor as Clan Chief, who was executed in 1604 after the Battle of Glen Fruin.

 

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