The 'Harry' Stewarts of Glen Fincastle in Perthshire and Lochaber, Nova Scotia (1792-1884)

Glen Fincastle, showing Dundavie and Pitfeolan (James Stobie, 1783)

The 'Harry' Stewart families have been pieced together from a number of sources, and are still under investigation as the records from the Perthshire area for this family are rather scant. Letters written by William Stewart of Westchester, Nova Scotia, in the 1880s describes how Robert 'Harry' Stewart of Glen Fincastle in Perthshire, Scotland emigrated to Nova Scotia in 1832 and was followed by his brother John 'Harry' Stewart the next year.

Robert 'Harry' Stewart was a weaver in Dundavie, Glen Fincastle. He was born 17th March 1790, the son of Henry Stewart and Barbara McIntosh. In the “History of Nova Scotia” by David Allison, Halifax 1916, he mentions that Robert's brother, John 'Harry' Stewart was a cousin of Lord Harry Stewart (i.e. Henry Stewart, 10th of Fincastle), implying that this was the reason for the 'Harry' epithet. There is evidence to substantiate this claim to kinship, but in Gaelic communities it was, and still is, common to distinguish individuals of the same name by adding their father's name. This could then be applied to the whole family, for example John's daughter was known as Barbara 'Harry' Stewart.

It is now clear that John 'Harry' Stewart and Robert 'Harry' Stewart were the grandsons of Robert Stewart, 8th of Fincastle.

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Robert Stewart, 8th of Fincastle and Margaret Balneaves

Robert Stewart probably was born in 1695, the son of Gilbert Stewart, 7th of Fincastle and Isobel Campbell who was the daughter of Robert Campbell, the minister of Blair Atholl. The Blair Atholl Session minutes for 30th August 1761, show that a crown was paid for the use of the (best) mortcloth at the funeral of Old Lady Fincastle (i.e. Isobel Campbell). The Session realised that the mortcloth was a money-maker for the parish poor fund and had just purchased a coarse mortcloth for the less well-off, which was lent out at half a crown. Although Fincastle was in Dull parish, the good people of Blair Atholl were not averse to helping them (at a price)!

On 1st March 1720 Robert Stewart married Margaret Balneaves, the daughter of Hendrie Balneaves of Edradour. The spelling of 'Henry' has a number of variations in the documents relating to the Fincastle Stewarts - the inclusion of a 'd' is fairly common and the use of the familiar name 'Harry' also is encountered.

1st March 1720, Dull OPR
Robert Stewart, younger of Fincastle and Margaret Balneaves, daughter to Mr Hendrie Balneaves of Edradour was (sic) married. Gilbert Stewart of Fincastle and Mr Hendrie Balneaves of Edradour, witnesses.

Although their son Henry was not baptised until 1723 he must have been born before their son Gilbert, who was baptised in 1721, as Henry succeeded to the Fincastle title, not Gilbert. One can only assume that Robert Stewart's marriage to Margaret Balneaves was carried out in great haste.

Robert Stewart and Margaret Balneaves had, at least, five children. The baptisms of four of the children appear in the Dull OPR but there is no entry for their daughter Elizabeth.

Dull OPR, 6th January 1721
Gilbert, son to Robert Stewart, younger of Fincastle, and Margaret Balneaves was baptised. Mr Hendry Balneaves of Edradour and Gilbert Stewart of Fincastle, witnesses.

Dull OPR, 30th July 1723
Hendry, son to Robert Stewart, younger of Fincastle, and Margaret Balneaves was baptised. Gilbert Stewart of Fincastle and Hendrie Balneaves of Edradour and James Robertson of Blairfetty, witnesses.

Dull OPR, 31st July 1731
Patrick, son to Robert Stewart, younger of Fincastle, and Margaret Balneaves was baptised. Gilbert Stewart of Fincastle and Hendry Balneaves of Edradour, witnesses.

Dull OPR, 28th July 1733
Jean, daughter to Robert Stewart of Fincastle, younger, and Margaret Balneaves was baptised. Gilbert Stewart of Fincastle and Hendry Balneaves of Edradour, witnesses.

Margaret Balneaves died after 26th April 1771 (see Testament of Lewis Robertson, that date)

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The children of Robert Stewart, 8th of Fincastle and Margaret Balneaves

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Capt. Henry Stewart, 9th of Fincastle and Charlotte Mercer

Henry Stewart was a captain in the Atholl Brigade during the 1745 uprising but his brother Gilbert does not seem to have been involved. Their father may have instructed his younger son to stay at home so that, if things went badly for the Jacobite cause, Gilbert would not be attainted and the Fincastle estate would be safe. Normally a captain would expect some of his tenants to accompany him, but nobody else from Glen Fincastle seems to have joined the rebellion. Henry Stewart returned home unharmed and would have been relieved by the proclamation of a 'general pardon' for all, except the main conspirators.

The marriage of Henry Stewart to Charlot Mercer is recorded in the Dull OPR.

5th January 1754, Dull OPR
Henry Stewart of Fincastle and Charlot Mercer in Kynachan, both in the parish of Dull, gave up their names to be proclaimed in order to marriage.

Charlotte Mercer was the daughter of William Mercer, writer (to the Signet) in Edinburgh. When she married in 1754 she had been living at Kynachan which was the home of Jean (Janet) Mercer, the widow of David Stewart of Kynachan. He was badly wounded during the battle at Culloden (Drumossie Moor) and was taken, along with other wounded men, to the Leanach barn for shelter. All were burnt alive when the Hanovarians set light to the building and prevented anyone from escaping.

Henry Stewart and Charlotte Mercer appear to have had only one child, James.

25th December 1756, Dull OPR
James, son to Henry Stewart of Fincastle and Charlote Mercer was baptised.

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Capt. Henry Stewart, 9th of Fincastle and Jean Stewart

Charlotte Mercer died soon after the birth of their son James, who probably died around the same time, and on 30th May 1760 Henry Stewart of Fincastle married Jean Stewart, the daughter of Charles Stewart, 7th of Ballechin.

A few years later Henry Stewart was involved in a public scandal as shown by the Blair Atholl Session minutes, 3rd March 1765

The Session ordered Janet Stewart, an unmarried woman in Grennich, who lately brought forth a child, to appear before them, Sabbath next at Struan.
(10th March 1765) Janet Stewart in Grennich was summoned but appeared not, summoned a second time to appear before the Session, Sabbath next at Blair.
(17th March 1765) Janet Stewart in Grennich being called, appeared not, ordered to be summoned a third time to appear before the Kirk Session at Blair, Sabbath next.
(24th March 1765) Janet Stewart in Grennich appeared and, being exhorted to be ingenuous, said that she did not know the person by whom the child she brought forth was begotten. That he met her above the head dykes of Grennich, she bringing water, and there committed guilt with her. She was ordered to appear again, Sabbath next at Struan. And they appointed the women that were alongs with her, at the time of her bringing forth of said child to be cited to appear before them at said diet, also.
(31st March 1765) The as-minuted Janet Stewart in Grennich appeared and, being exhorted to be ingenuous, gave up Henry Stewart Esq. of Fincastle, a married man, as father to her said child. The Session appointed an extract of her confession to be transmitted to the Kirk Session of Dull, as the accused person resided in that parish, that he should be dealt with according to the Church.

The illegitimate child was baptised at Blair Atholl on 20th March 1765 and named Margaret.

After the tragic death of John Stewart 9th of Bonskeid in 1767, Henry Stewart of Fincastle was one of the trustees involved in organising a public roup to sell the corns, hay, cattle and other beastial and assets found upon John Stewart's farm, the Mains of Bonskeid. He bought some of the lots for his own use, including: a 'luey' (young cow); the hay in the barn; and a mirror.

There do not seem to have been any children from Henry Stewart's second marriage. Jean Stewart probably died in 1766 as an entry in the Blair Atholl Session minutes dated 18th January 1767 states that the best mortcloth was used at the funeral of Lady Fincastle.

Another entry in the Blair Atholl Session minutes dated 10th July 1768 states that a crown was paid for the use of the best mortcloth at (Henry Stewart, 9th of) Fincastle's funeral. As Henry died without an heir, the Fincastle title passed to his younger brother Gilbert.

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Gilbert Stewart, 10th of Fincastle and Susan Menzies

Gilbert Stewart was baptised on 6th January 1721 when he probably was only a few days old. Nothing much is know about his early life and it is assumed that he lived at Fincastle until he reached manhood. Although his older brother, Henry, was involved in the 1745 Jacobite Rising, it would appear that his father did not want both of his sons to participate. When he was 34 years old he married, but the OPR entry does not indicate where he was living in the parish, nor anything about his bride.

14th June 1755, Dull OPR
Gilbert Stewart and Susan Menzies, both in this parish, gave up their names in order for marriage, and married 17th of the same.

However the OPR entry for the baptisms of their son Robert shows that the couple were living at Miltown of Fincastle. There were two Miltowns in Glen Fincastle: one was next to 'Old' Bonskeid House, and the other was close to Dundavie and was known as Little Miltown. The Testament Dative and Inventory of John Stewart of Bonskeid, 1768, shows that Gilbert and his family were living at the latter. In addition, the Testament Dative and Inventory of Lewis, alias Ludvick, Robertson in Dundavie, Glen Fincastle, dated 26th April 1771 shows that Gilbert had been a lint miller, presumably at Little Miltown of Fincastle.

The Dull OPR shows that Gilbert Stewart and Susan Menzies had at least three children: Robert; James and Harry. The Session Clerk for Dull parish probably lived nowhere near Glen Fincastle, so he might be excused for recording the mother of James as Susan Stewart instead of Menzies, and for forgetting the forename of Harry Stewart's mother.

17th December 1756, Dull OPR
Robert, son to Gilbert Stewart and Susan Menzies in Milntown of Fincastle was baptised.

17th October 1759, Dull OPR
James, son to Gilbert Stewart and Susan Stewart in Fincastle was baptised.

3rd November 1761, Dull OPR
Harry, son to Gilbert Stewart in Little Miltown of Fincastle and (blank) Menzies was baptised.

Susan Menzies probably died fairly soon afterwards as no more children were baptised.

When the belonging of John Stewart of Bonskeid were put up for public auction in 1768, Gilbert Stewart successfully bid for several lots which provide some insight into his social standing. The lots included: six pewter plates at 1s 8d; an old scythe at 1s; a gun at 13s 6d; a table at 7s, a cheese at 4s 2d; a pair of mourning buckles at 6d; a whip at 1s 2d; a candle mould at 6d; a cannister at 2d; a knife-box at 2s 8d; sheets of paper at 3d and an old iron at 5d. Pewter utensils were often sold by their weight, not as ostentatious as silver but definitely superior to wooden bowls and platters.

Gilbert's older brother, Captain Henry Stewart 9th of Fincastle seems to have died late in 1769 and life dramatically changed for Gilbert. Firstly, he became Gilbert Stewart, 10th of Fincastle and may well have moved his family from Little Miltown to Fincastle House. Secondly, he decide to re-marry.

10th January 1770, Dull OPR
Gilbert Stewart of Fincastle and Miss Cecialia Stewart, daughter of Mr Stewart, Minister of Blair Athole, gave up their names to be proclaimed in order to marriage.

The Testament Dative and Inventory of Lewis, alias Ludvick, Robertson in Dundavie, Glen Fincastle, dated 26th April 1771 shows that affairs of the Fincastle estate were in some disarray.

"... in payment to the said Gilbert Stewart primo loco of eighteen pounds Scots money as the hypothicly rent due by the said Lewis Robertson, the defunct, to Mrs Margaret Balneavis, relict of the deceased Robert Stewart, sometime of Fincastle, and life-rented of the town and lands of Dundavie for his possession there, the crops 1770, in virtue of herself and to which rents (interest), the said Gilbert Stewart, his right by precept from her, and to him the expenses of this present confirmation. And in payment, moreover, to the said Gilbert Stewart there aforesaid other creditors secundo et ultimo loco pari passu, of the sums of money underwritten to witt(?) to the said Gilbert Stewart, his right from her as aforesaid, in payment also to him of four pounds eleven shillings Scots money, being the amount of articles bought by the defunct at the roup of the effects of the deceased Robert Stewart in Balnafeid and Gilbert Tossar in Pitfeolan per account, whereof the said Gilbert Stewart had the memorandum and was accompable (accountable) to the executor, and was still due by the defunct. Item, one pound nine shillings Scots for articles bought by said defunct from the said Gilbert Stewart at his own rouping."

(So Margaret Balneaves died after 26th April 1771, and Gilbert Stewart had rouped his belongs, presumably upon leaving Little Miltown).

"...Item, of two pounds ten shillings Scots money ...... defunct as the said Gilbert Stewart, his ground from his tenants to pay his cess (cess-tax) and returned by him without applying the same for that purpose and which came up to a debt again upon and payable by the said Gilbert Stewart as heritor. And in payment further to the said Gilbert Stewart of one pound nine shillings six pennies Scots money as the dues for dressing to the defunct, a stone eight pounds and a half of lint at the said Gilbert Stewart his lint mill in winter last, then in his notional possession amounting the said sundry articles bind(?) is the funerals hypothick arrears of rent.

Item, seventeen pounds nineteen shillings six pennies Scots money and all contained in a decreet of cognition at his instance before the said Commissary upon the twenty day of November but in payment also to the said Gilbert Stewart of nine shillings ...... D. Lewis alias Ludvick Robertson, his lawful bill to Henry Balneavis, merchant in Perth, dated the eight day of February but indorsed by him to the said Gilbert Stewart.

Item, of the annual rent (interest) thereof since the same fell due."

To pay off the debts Lewis Robertson's possessions were rouped, and Gilbert Stewart harvested, threshed and dried his crops of oats and barley which were sold for £82 Scots money.

Gilbert Stewart and Cecilia Stewart had at least four children, whose baptisms appear in the Dull OPR.

9th November 1770, Dull OPR
Margaret, daughter to Gilbert Stewart of Fincastle and Cecilia Stewart was baptised.

5th March 1777, Dull OPR
Patrick, son to Gilbert Stewart of Fincastle and Cicel Stewart his wife was baptised.

22nd Apr 1778, Dull OPR
Isabella, daughter to Gilbert Stewart of Fincastle and Cicelia Stewart was baptised.

6th Aug 1780, Dull OPR
Alexander, son to Gilbert Stewart of Fincastle and Cicelia Stewart was baptised.

The Scots Magazine, 1808, reported the death, at Fincastle, of Gilbert Stewart Esq. of Fincastle, aged 78 years. In fact he was 87!

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The Children of Gilbert Stewart, 10th of Fincastle and Susan Menzies

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The Children of Gilbert Stewart, 10th of Fincastle and Cecilia Stewart

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Lt. Col. Robert Stewart, 11th of Fincastle and Louisa Henrietta Graeme

Robert Stewart took a commission in the army and married Louisa Henrietta Graeme in 1792. The marriage banns were read in both Dull parish and Crieff parish. His bride was the daughter of Patrick Graeme, 8th of Inchbrakie, and Amelia Oliphant.

18th November 1792, Crieff OPR
Capt. Robert Stewart jnr. of Fincastle in Dull parish and Miss Louisa Maria Henrietta Graeme (married)

Robert Stewart died in 1822 and was buried in a little hilltop graveyard on the south side of the road, just above the Clunie dam. Others of his ancestors may be buried in the same place, but if so, are unrecorded.

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The children of Lt. Col. Robert Stewart, 11th of Fincastle and Louisa Henrietta Graeme

Gilbert Stewart eventually sold the Fincastle estate. The London Edition of The Courier advertised the sale (29th September 1831), announcing that Henry Stewart at Dundavie (a relative) would point out the estate boundaries to prospective buyers.

Duncan Robertson of Carron Vale is said to have been 65 years old when he married. They had three children who were all baptised in Larbert parish: Duncan, 27th September 1819; Robert, 2nd November 1820; and James Peter, 15th February 1822. After the death of her husband, 12th February 1824, she married the Rev. Thomas Liddell on 16th November 1835.

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Henry (Harry) Stewart and Barbara McIntosh in Glen Fincastle

Henry Stewart married Barbara McIntosh, 25th November 1786, but the Dull OPR is as enigmatic as ever saying only that both parties were from Dull parish. Barbara may be the daughter of Angus McIntosh and Christian Stewart, born 19th February 1764, but this has yet to be confirmed. All of their children were baptised when the family were living at Dundavie, Glen Fincastle.

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Generation 2: The children of Henry (Harry) Stewart and Barbara McIntosh in Glen Fincastle

Although the baptism of James appears in the Dull parish OPR, dated 30th April 1806, it also appears in the Blair Atholl OPR in 1833 in unusual circumstances. The 1833 entry relates to the baptism of Henry Stewart, lawful son to James Stewart and Christian McIntosh at Woodend, Fincastle, parish of Dull, 29th April 1833. The two entries which precede this one in the OPR, appear to be the baptisms of the parents: James Stewart, 4 Apr 1806, and Christian McIntosh, 11 Nov 1815. Although these are baptisms which took place in Glen Fincastle, Dull parish, they must have been recorded in the Blair Atholl OPR after James and his family had moved to Baluaine:

"James, lawful son to Henry Stewart and Ann McIntosh (Ann crossed out and replaced by Barbara) in Dundavie, Fincastle, parish of Dull, 4th April 1806".

"Christian, lawful daughter to John McIntosh and Elizabeth Reid in Balnafead, Fincastle, parish of Dull, 11th November 1815".

It is also worth noting that there are no baptisms for daughters. Perhaps there were no daughters, but it is more likely that only Henry's sons were baptised.

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Robert 'Harry' Stewart and Isabella McGlashan in Glen Fincastle and Nova Scotia

Robert married Isabella McGlashan, the daughter of William McGlashan in Pitagowan, Blair Atholl parish. The OPR entries (6th November 1813, Dull, and 12th December 1813, Blair Atholl merely state that Robert was living in (Glen) Fincastle. It is interesting to note that Isabella's mother was Margaret Stewart from Dundavie - perhaps Robert and Isabella were cousins.

The family emigrated to Nova Scotia in 1832 on the Charlotte Kerr, along with the families of 'Deacon' Robert Stewart from Balcastle, and James 'the Tailor' Stewart from Chamberbane.

In the letters written by William Stewart of Westchester, he says: "Rob Hari also had a family. His eldest William I think about 12 years old, small for his age, a very pious youth, like his parents. He became an Episcopal cleric and went to P.E.I. and died there, so I heard."

By the time of the 1871 census Robert was a widower living with his unmarried daughters Margaret and Isabel. His sons Peter and Alexander were living with their families in the adjacent houses.

The Presbyterian Witness, Halifax, Nova Scotia, carried the following obituary on 28th February 1880

"At the Foot of Lochaber on 12th February, Robert Stewart senr. in the 90th year of his age.

Mr Stewart was born in the town of Dundavie, Fincastle, Parish of Dull, Perthshire, Scotland, March 17th 1789. He was the son of Henry Stewart and Barbara McIntosh of that place. He emigrated to Nova Scotia in 1831. He was, in 1814, married to Isabella McGlashan who died in 1859. Of 14 children, only 2 sons and 3 daughters survived himself.

One of his sons, Rev. William Stewart, was a minister in connection with the Episcopal church, died a few years ago in the United States. Another, Peter, who died a short time ago, was an honoured Elder in the same congregation in which his father was an Elder.

Mr Stewart experienced a change of heart when comparatively young. He taught a Sabbath school and was called to the office of an Elder in the congregation of Rev. Mr Stewart, Blair Atholl, Scotland, some years before he came to America. He was inducted into the Eldership of the congregation of Lochaber in 1853. He took great interest in the young and gave his unwearied help in sustaining religious meetings in his neighbourhood - where his presence and council will be greatly missed.

He was a man of genuine piety and strict integrity. He was most punctual in attendance on the means of grace while his health and strength continued. Whilst his bodily powers weakened his spiritual grace increased more and more. During his last illness, which was of short duration, he was occupied in giving good advice and councel to all that called to see him. He expressed again and again his great desire to depart and be with Christ which is much better. He peacefully passed away from us to realize this what he so much longer for. He was conveyed to his last resting place here, by a large concourse of people who will miss greatly his advice and example.

The path of the just is as the shining light, that shineth more and more unto the perfect day.

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Generation 3: The children of Robert 'Harry' Stewart and Isabella McGlashan of Glen Fincastle

* Informant - Robert Grant, grand-nephew.
** Marriage date from Arthur's birth certificate.

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Generation 4: The children of Peter 'Harry' Stewart and Sarah ......... of Lochaber Lake, Nova Scotia

* Drowned.

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Alexander 'Harry' Stewart married Ann McMillan, the daughter of Hugh McMillan and Janet MacGregor, 27th December 1856. Hugh McMillan was a pioneer settler from 1808.

Generation 4: The children of Alexander 'Harry' Stewart and Ann McMillan of Lochaber Lake, Nova Scotia

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John 'Harry' Stewart and Margaret Robertson in Glen Fincastle and Nova Scotia

6th November 1825, Blair Atholl OPR
John Stewart and Margaret Robertson both in Chapleton of this parish (married).

Chapleton, or Balchapel, was a small homestead on the north side of Loch Tummel, Perthshire, just below the Borenich burial ground.

The Ruins of Balchapel (Chapelton) of Borenich

Balchapel of Borenich is now in ruins and gradually disappearing, but it is evident from what remains that it was only big enough for a couple of families. The records give no indication that either John or Margaret were born there, and they seem to have moved a couple of miles eastwards to Glen Fincastle soon after their marriage, as this is where their son James was born.

17th November 1826, Dull OPR
James, son to John Stewart and Margaret Robertson in Balnald (of Fincastle) baptised.

From the dates on her tombstone it would appear that their eldest daughter Barbara was born in 1828, but there is no record of Barbara's baptism in the Old Parish Records. The next recorded child was John and Margaret's second son.

26th December 1829 Dull OPR
Peter, son to John Stewart and Margaret Robertson in Balnald (of Fincastle), baptised.

It is known that John Stewart and his family emigrated to Nova Scotia in 1833 on the same ship as the Stewarts of Balcastle, as there is a reference to these events in the “History of Nova Scotia” by David Allison, Halifax 1916 (volume 3, page 681). In this work David Allison mentions a local entrepreneur, James H. Stewart of Antigonish County. He was John Stewart's grandson.

Mr James H. Stewart was born in Lochaber, Antigonish Couty, Nova Scotia, April 19th 1863. He was the son of Alexander D. Stewart and Christina Stewart.

The father was born in Blair Atholl, Perthshire in 1827 and emigrating with his parents to Lochaber in 1833; came on a sailing vessel to Halifax, where they took another vessel to Sherbrooke and they finally settles at Lochaber on a farm. He married Christina Stewart, March 17th 1857, and lived at Lochaber until he died February 5th 1895. The father's parents were Ellen (McDonald) Stewart; they were both natives of Scotland, where they spent their earlier years till emigrating in 1833.

The mother was born in Lochaber, February 25th 1839, and died Nova Scotia May 8th 1886; she was a daughter of John Stewart and Margaret Robertson, who emigrated to Lochaber from Blair Atholl, Scotland, in 1833 on the same vessel as the father's parents. The mother's father was a cousin of Lord Harry Stewart.

Alexander Donald Stewart was born in Balcastle of Borenich and the following entry appears in the Blair Atholl OPR.

6th August 1827, Blair Atholl OPR
Alexander, lawful son to Donald Stewart and Hellen McDonald his spouse in Balichastle was born 4th August and baptised 6th.

Christina seems to have been their only child born in Nova Scotia, but it is possible that others were born between 1833 and 1839.

The comment by David Allison concerning John Stewart's connection to Lord Harry Stewart confirms his ancestry from the Stewarts of Fincastle. This family link must have been a source of pride as it was remembered by subsequent generations, and is the source of the 'Harey' or 'Harry' to distinguish this family of Stewarts from others in the Lochaber area. Another useful piece of information is that the 1833 emigration group of 'Deacon' Robert Stewart, Donald Robert Stewart, Thomas McLauchlin and John 'Harry' Stewart, also included John 'Harry' Stewart's brother, Robert.

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The children of John 'Harry' Stewart and Margaret Robertson, who emigrated from Scotland and settled in South Lochaber, Nova Scotia, in the year 1833.

John 'Harry' Stewart and his family settled in South Lochaber and are found in the 1881 census. Barbra Malay is probably their grand-daughter.

Goshen and Giant's Lake, Guysborough, District 8, Household 70

John 'Harry' Stewart died in 1884 and was buried in the Stewart Cemetery, South Lochaber, Guysborough County. His memorial stone reads "Gone Home. In memory of John Stewart who died May 10 1884 aged 92 years. Also his wife Margaret Robertson". (photographs of the memorial stones in this cemetery, taken by Maureen Brown, are available on the internet).

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James Stewart and Jane Stewart in Goshen and Giant's Lake, Guysborough

John 'Harry' Stewart's son James married Jane, the daughter of 'Big' John Stewart and Ann McDonald, and they farmed in South Lochaber close to his parents. The 1881 Canadian census shows the family as follows:

Goshen and Giant's Lake, Guysborough, District 8, Household 67

Their son James married his cousin Annie MacEachern (the daughter of Cecilia Stewart and Alexander MacEachern of Lochaber). The married couple moved to North Dakota, USA.

Their son Hugh D. Stewart was born 24th May 1864 and died 21st September 1885 aged 21 years. He is buried in the Stewart cemetery, South Lochaber.

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Robert Stewart and Barbara Stewart in Goshen and Giant's Lake, Guysborough

John 'Harry' Stewart's daughter Barbara married Robert, the son of 'Big' John Stewart and Ann McDonald. They settled in South Lochaber where they had three children: John R, born 1851; Robert, born 1853; and Annie (Barbara Ann), born 1854. Barbara's husband Robert died in 1855 and Barbara later married James Malloy. There is a memorial stone to Barbara Stewart Malloy (1828 - 1867) in the South Lochaber cemetery.

Their son John R. Stewart married his first cousin Christina Ann 'Harry' Stewart, the daughter of James 'Harry' Stewart and Jane Stewart. The young couple and their family were living next to John 'Harry' Stewart and Margaret Robertson at the time of the 1881 census.

Goshen and Giant's Lake, Guysborough, District 8, Household 71

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Alexander Donald Stewart and Christina Stewart in Lochaber, Antigonish

John 'Harry' Stewart's daughter Christina married Alexander Donald Stewart.

Reference has already been made to the “History of Nova Scotia” by David Allison which relates the emigration of Alexander and Christina's families from Borenich in 1833. Further information on Alexander Donald Stewart, his family, and his ancestors is to be found in the Record Room under the title of "Donald Stewart of North Lochaber, N.S. (1792-1855)".

Alexander and Christina appear in the 1881 Canadian census, with Alexander's brother and his widowed mother, Helen MacDonald, living in adjacent properties.

Lochaber, Antigonish, District 21B, Household 111

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The Descendants of John 'Harry' Stewart of Borenich and South Lochaber, Nova Scotia

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Henry Stewart and Margaret McIntosh in Dundavie, Glen Fincastle

Henry Stewart married Margaret McIntosh, 30th November 1822. The Dull OPR merely states that they were "both of this parish", which is not very enlightening.

Margaret's death certificate shows that she was the daughter of Donald McIntosh (parish of Dull) and Margaret Fraser in Tomanbuie (of Borenich) who married 23rd November 1786. She had three brothers who were baptised: Angus, 3rd December 1791; John, 15th July 1796; and James, 23rd March 1798. Her mother, Margaret Fraser, was born at Balcastle (Sep 4 1760), the daughter of John Fraser in Balchapel and Isobel Stewart in Bohally (married Dec 12 1745).

The first six children of Henry Stewart and Margaret McIntosh were born at Dundavie, and they were still living there when the Fincastle Estate was put up for sale. The London Edition of The Courier advertised the sale (29th September 1831), announcing that Henry Stewart at Dundavie would point out the estate boundaries to prospective buyers. After the birth of Elizabeth in 1835 the family moved to Pitfeolain where Henry was born in 1839, and they were still there during the 1841 census.

By the time of the 1851 census, Henry Stewart had changed professions and had become a farmer of 10 acres at Balinluig. This farm is now the Queen's View Visitor Centre owned by the Forestry Commission for Scotland.

* The daughter of James Pearson and Barbara Stewart, born 12th April 1847, Moneydie parish. Probably Henry's grand-daughter rather than his niece.
** Although Euphemia was living at Dundavie, she does not seem to be related. She moved to Invervack and then to Struan, where she died in 1863. Her death certificate describes her as the daughter of George Stewart and Euphemia Stewart, born in Dull parish 30th July 1790.

By 1861 the family had moved to Coilvoulin in Moulin parish which is just south-west of the Edradour distillery (Mains of Edradour).

The 1871 census shows the family at Claywhat (Clayquhat), just north of Bridge of Cally in Strathardle.

** Although ScotlandsPeople records her as Susan S. Rud, her birth certificate names her as Susan Stewart.

Margaret Hay was born 1st July 1859, the illegitimate daughter of Alexander Hay, shepherd in Borenich, parish of Dull, and Janet Stewart, lately a domestic servant and presently residing in her father's house in Coilvoulin, parish of Moulin.

In the 1861 census Janet Stewart and her two-year-old daughter, Margaret Hay, were living at Tomanbuie of Borenich, along with widow Christian Fraser who is described as her aunt. Perhaps the term 'aunt' was an easier way of describing how an elderly widow and a young woman were related when they were second cousins. Christian McIntosh (widow Fraser) in Dalmarnock, Little Dunkeld, married Alexander Fraser, grocer in Tomanbuie of Borenich on 25th November 1838, and Alexander Fraser's aunt was Margaret Fraser who was Janet's maternal grandmother.

On the other hand, perhaps she really was an aunt. Janet's mother, Margaret McIntosh, does not have her baptism recorded in the Blair Atholl OPR as it seems that her father only registered the baptisms of his three sons (Angus, John and James). So it is possible that Christian McIntosh from Dalmarnock, Little Dunkeld, is Margaret's sister.

Henry Stewart died 13th May 1786 and the 1881 census shows his widow and family still living at Claywhat (Clayquhat).

* John Stewart was widow Stewart's nephew, the son of Peter Stewart and Isabella Fergusson in Balnafeat, Glen Fincastle.

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Generation 3: The children of Henry Stewart and Margaret McIntosh in Dundavie, Glen Fincastle

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Henry James Stewart and Ann Chisholm in Inverness

As previously shown, in 1861 the 21 year-old Henry Stewart was living with his parents at Coilvoulin, near the Mains of Edradour in Moulin parish, where he was working as a house carpenter. By 1871 the rest of the family had moved to Clayquhat, just north of Bridge of Cally, but Henry James Stewart, as he now styled himself, was not with them. Most likely he had moved south to Edinburgh or Glasgow in search or work. However, instead of being employed as a house carpenter, he became an insurance agent. Perhaps it was his ability to speak in Gaelic which led to him being sent to Inverness.

On 19th February 1876 Henry J. Stewart, insurance agent and bachelor aged 32 years and living at 11 Bridge Street, Inverness, married Annie Chisholm, spinster aged 22 years, living at Millertown, parish of Inverness. The ceremony took place at Roman Catholic Chapel in Nairn. His parents were given as Henry Stewart, retired farmer, and Margaret Mackintosh. Her parents were given as Colin Chisholm, shepherd, and Mary McDonald.

The building where Henry Stewart was living was demolished in the 1960s and the Edinburgh Woolen Mill and Inverness Museum now occupy the site. The original building was the Ettle's Hotel. It was visited by Robert Burns and his schoolteacher companion Willie Nicol, on his third tour of Scotland in 1787. There is an image of the hotel, in better times, on 'Am Baile - Highland History and Culture'.

By 1881 the family were living at 1 Albion Square. As the Ettle's Hotel was also known as the Albion Hotel, it may have been the same place, or closeby.

The 1891 census shows the family living at 1 Raining's Stairs. The stairs originally served Raining's school at the top of the steps. The school was founded by John Raining in 1747 and the stairs remain as a city centre landmark.

On 15th October 1903 at the Roman Catholic Chapel in Inverness, John Cameron general labourer and widower aged 55 years and living at 17 Friars Street Inverness, married widow Annie Stewart, aged 49 years and living at 26 Huntly Street Inverness. His parents were given as John Cameron, shepherd, and Margaret Macleod, both deceased. Her parents were given as Colin Chisholm, shepherd, and Mary Macdonald, both deceased.

Annie Chisholm or Stewart or Cameron died at Morningside, Edinburgh, in 1922.

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Peter (Patrick) Stewart and Isabella Ferguson in Fincastle

Moulin OPR, 1830
17th March (Banns) Peter Stewart in the parish of Dull and Isabel Fergusson in this parish. Married, March 30th.

Although only the names of sons are recorded in the Dull OPR, it is likely that there were daughters as well. the family were living at Balnafeat, Glen Fincastle, when the 1841 census was carried out.

Peter Stewart must have died at some time between 1844 and 1851 as Isabella is shown as a widow in the 1851 census (Dull, 10/13).

The family were still living at Balnafeat during the 1861 census, but the area was now enumerated as part of Tenandry (3/5).

In the 1881 census John Stewart was visiting his aunt, Margaret McIntosh, the widow of Henry Stewart in Claywhat, just north of Bridge of Cally in Strathardle.

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Generation 3: The children of Peter Stewart and Isabella Fergusson in Balnafeat, Glen Fincastle

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James Stewart and Christian McIntosh in Baluaine

Dull OPR, 7th October 1832
James Stewart and Christian McIntosh, married.

The same marriage appears twice in the Dull OPR for Patrick Stewart.

James Stewart, retired joiner married to Christian McIntosh, died at Baluaine Cottage 11th May 1891 aged 85 years. Parents given as Henry Stewart, ground officer and Barbara McIntosh, both deceased. Informant was his son, Henry Stewart in Pitlochry.

His wife, Christian McIntosh died 13th January 1895. There is a monument inscription to the family at Blair Atholl parish church (S5).

Sacred to the memory of James Stewart, carpenter, Baluan Cottage, who died 11th May 1891 aged 85 years. His wife Christian McIntosh died 13th January 1895 aged 80 years. Also his children: Elizabeth died 29th December 1859 aged 23 years; Jessie died 14th January 1862 aged 18 years; James died 9th August 1886 aged 33 years; Jane died 11th November 1940 aged 89 years.

The two entries in the Blair Atholl OPR which precede the baptism of Henry on 29th April 1833, appear to be the baptismal dates of Henry's parents: James Stewart, 4th April 1806, and Christian McIntosh, 11th November 1815. Although these are baptisms which took place at Woodend in Glen Fincastle, Dull parish, they must have been recorded in the Blair Atholl OPR after James and his family had moved to Baluaine, before the 1841 census.

By the time of the 1851 census the family had greatly expanded but were still living at Wester Baluaine.

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Generation 3: The children of James Stewart and Christian McIntosh in Wester Baluaine

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John Stewart, 9th of Bonskeid and Elizabeth Stewart

John Stewart, 9th of Bonskeid, is said to have married Elizabeth Stewart, the daughter of Robert Stewart, 8th of Fincastle. However the Dull OPR does not record her baptism, nor is there an entry for the banns of marriage. It is assumed that she was born around 1725 and married around 1754. The only record in the Dull OPR which relates to her is the baptism of their daughter, Isobel.

Dull OPR, 16th July 1755
Isobel, daughter to John Stewart of Bonskeid and Elisabeth Stewart was baptised.

John Stewart, 9th of Bonskeid, also had a son Alexander. He is mentioned at the commencement of his father's testament. "The Testament dative and inventory of the goods, gear, debts and sums of money which pertained, belonged or were resting to the umquhile (deceased) John Stewart, of Bonskeid, at the time of his decease which was upon the twenty day of October 1767 years, truely made and given up by Alexander Stewart now of Bonskeid, son of the said defunct." There then follows a list of the four trustees who were charged with administering the Bonskeid estate until he reached manhood. His mother is not mentioned in the testament so it may be assumed that she was no longer alive.

The same testament shows that John Stewart and his brother-in-law Donald Stewart of Shierglas worked together on business deals. Donald Stewart was said to have a bad temper and, during a 'heated exchange' while eating at a Pitlochry inn (thought to be Sunnybrae), he accidentally killed John Stewart and was forced to flee abroad until the matter was settled between the two families.

Alexander Stewart, 10th of Bonskeid, probably was brought up by a relative, James Stewart of Killiechangie, who arranged for his father's funeral. James Stewart also organised a roup (sale) of John Stewart's belongings but purchased certain items for his ward: a shirt at 6s; a vest at 11s; a black coat and vest at £1; and a laced hat at 4s.