Struan (Strowan) Robertson, Chief of Clan Donnachaidh

Struan Kirk - traditional burial place of the Chiefs of Clan Donnachaidh

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Robert Robertson, 14th of Strowan (Struan) and 10th Chief of Clan Donnachaidh married Agnes MacDonald, the daughter of Ranald 'Ban' MacDonald, 5th of Clanranald and Moidart, around 1598.

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Generation 2: The children of Robert Robertson, 10th Chief of Clan Donnachaidh
and Agnes MacDonald

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Alexander Robertson, 15th of Strowan (Struan) and 11th Chief of Clan Donnachaidh and Margaret Graham

Alexander Robertson married Margaret Graham, the daughter of George Graham, 4th of Inchbrakie, at Dunkeld in July 1626. He died in 1636, leaving a son and a daughter. His brother, Donald Robertson of Achinruie, became the guardian of his son Alexander and was known as the 'Tutor of Struan'.

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Generation 3: The children of Alexander Robertson, 11th Chief of Clan Donnachaidh
and Margaret Graham

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Alexander Robertson, 16th of Strowan (Struan) and 12th Chief of Clan Donnachaidh

Alexander Robertson was only about nine years old when his father died. His uncle, Donald Robertson of Achinruie, became his guardian as the 'Tutor of Struan'.

Alexander Robertson married Catherine Drummond, the daughter of Sir James Drummond, 1st of Machany, in August 1652. They had two children before Catherine Drummond died. His second wife was Marion Baillie, the daughter of Lieutenant-General William Baillie of Letham, whom he married in August 1663.

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Generation 4: The Children of Alexander Robertson, 12th Chief of Clan Donnachaidh
and Catherine Drummond

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Generation 4: The Children of Alexander Robertson, 12th Chief of Clan Donnachaidh
and Marion Baillie

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Margaret Robertson of Struan

The brother - sister relationship between the Poet Chief and his sister, 'Black Margaret', is complicated, especially as Alexander Robertson owed money to many more people than just his sister. Although Margaret complained that her brother gave her no freedom, she seems to have been in correspondence with several friends and able to visit her lawyer in Dunkeld.

Margaret Robertson's father had left her 2,500 merks, Scots money, with annual interest payable from 18th May 1681, the date at which she would have turned 16. However, her brother refused to pay out the legacy. Margaret petitioned her case against Alexander Robertson Esq. of Struan before the Lords of Session in North Britain and was granted a decree in her favour. Her brother brought an appeal against the decree, before the Lords in Parliament, which was heard on 4th June 1712. The Lords affirmed the decree and dismissed the appeal with costs. Alexander declined to obey the decree and Margaret could not find an officer to execute the decree, unless given military protection.

Margaret petitioned Queen Anne to provide the required military protection and by April 1713 the Duke of Atholl was instructed to see that the petitioner had justice done her. In the meantime a messenger by the name of John McLeish, was employed to search for Robertson of Struan in Rannoch. The messenger later reported that he, together with Donald McDonald, Alexander Fergusson, John Millar, Duncan McLeish and Donald MacArrie went to Mount Alexander, where Robertson of Struan resided but found 60 to 80 armed men preventing them from delivering the decree.

In December 1713 Thomas Williamson, Messenger at Arms in Dunkeld, attempted to issue a Horning for bad debt, and was attacked by a rabble dressed in women's attire and was hit in the face with a shovel. Fearing that the 'female opposition' had been a step too far, the Robertson Chief sent a message to the Duke of Atholl, Lord Privy Seal of Scotland and Sheriff Principal of Perthshire, apologising for troubling His Grace, blaming his scandalous sister, and explaining that he had sent a servant to bring the Messenger at Arms to his house, not expecting any trouble, but before his servant could get at him, the mob had harried the Messenger off the 'Field of Battle'. He claimed that he had sent a servant halfway to receive his orders and promised passive obedience to the magistrates. At the same time he claimed the right to hold to the principle of non-assistance in an unlawful case and trusted that the Duke had not writtten to Edinburgh concerning the matter. He also alluded to the Duke having been a Commissioner inquiring into the Massacre of Glencoe.

The Duke was advised by his Edinburgh lawyers to execute the Queen's orders by providing a party to accompany the Messenger at Arms, but to take all possible care to prevent the shedding of blood, should the party meet with any opposition. The Messenger at Arms and an escort of 50 men went to Struan's normal residence at Mount Alexander (Dunalastair) but, finding him not there, proceeded to his house at Carie. Margaret Robertson went to Kinloch to provide food for the men upon their return. Obviously Struan had been pre-warned as all they found at Carie was the Robertson Chief sailing away down Loch Rannoch towards Kinloch on the only available boat. Margaret Robertson was abducted by the Chief's men and deposited on an island in the loch, from whence she could not escape, nor be rescued.

While the Duke of Atholl was trying to assure Queen Anne that he was doing everything possible, Struan arranged for an Alexander McDonald to take his sister Margaret to Alexander McLeod in Pabbay, a remote island between Harris and Uist. In a letter to Clerk Richardson in Perth, Margaret Robertson described Alexander McDonald as her wicked and unchristian nephew, but their relationship is unclear. As if Pabbay was not remote enough, the intention was to lodge her at Hirta (one of the St. Kilda islands in the North Atlantic), but Alexander McLeod was worried about the consequences and refused the request.

During September 1715 Margaret Robertson escaped from Uist, despite being guarded day and night, and made her way to Blair Atholl where she was given the Duke's protection. Then, for some unknown reason, decided to visit her mother. Unsurprisingly she was seized by some of Struan's clansmen and finished up in Dundee Tollbooth, in chains to prevent her escape. In November 1715 the Earl of Mar ordered the unfortunate Margaret to be released from her imprisonment, while Struan was busy leading his clan in the 1715 Jacobite Uprising.

After the collapse of the Rising, Alexander Robertson was attainted and lost his title to the lands of Struan. When James VIII departed Scotland in February 1716, the Earl of Mar tried to pursuade Alexander to accompany them, but he refused because of sickness. Even Rannoch was not safe and the Chief was taken prisoner soon afterwards and sent under armed guard to Edinburgh Castle. The party halted for the night at Amulree and soon afterwards Margaret Robertson arrived using a fictitous name. After congratulating the soldiers she order ample whisky so that they could celebrate. In the morning it was found that the prisoner had escaped from his inebriated jailors. Margaret Robertson had the gall to berate the guard for their negligence.

With her brother safelty in exile in France, Margaret Robertson set about the restoration of the Robertson estate. Having travelled to London and thrown herself at the feet of George I, she was not daunted by the initial refusal of her request but persisted until, in exasperation, he relented. The Murlagan estate was restored to Margaret in 1723 and to her brother's heirs, if there were any, but Alexander himself was excluded although he was still attainted until 1731. Nothing daunted Alexander Robertson of Struan returned to Carie in 1726, and held the lands 'by the sword' as in previous times.

Margaret Robertson of Struan died in 1727 leaving the estate in debt. Her creditors could not sue her brother successfully as the estate was supposed to be under the govenance of the Commission for Forfeited Estates, but the Court of Session sequestrated psrt of the estate in an attempt to settle the debts, but to no avail.

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Alexander Robertson, 17th of Strowan (Struan) and 13th Chief of Clan Donnachaidh

Alexander Robertson was sent to St Andrews Universty to study theology and was destined for the church, as his older brother Robert was heir to the Struan estate. However, fate took a hand, with both Robert and his father dying within a short time, and Alexander unexpectedly becoming Clan Chief. He inherited the title during a period of great political uncertainty and had the distinction of being involved in the Jacobite Uprisings of 1689, 1715 and 1745.

In 1687 Alexander Robertson of Struan participated in the annual 'Silver Arrow' archery competition, which he won. The winners were allowed to attach a medal to one of the Silver Arrows which were paraded down to the Bow Butts - but at the winner's expense. This probably was achieved in his first year at St Andrews.

Two years later in April 1689 news reached St Andrews that John Graham, Viscount Dundee, had raised the Royal Standard at Dudhope Castle on the slopes of Dundee Law, in an attempt to restore James VIII to the Scottish throne. Immediately, Alexander Robertson left his studies and hurried to Rannoch with a commission from King James to raise a battalion from his clansmen and join 'Bonnie Dundee'.

The 1689 Jacobite Uprising

Blair Castle was a strategic stronghold guarding access to the Lowlands. It was occupied by a Jacobite garrison under the command of Patrick Stewart of Ballechin, but was being beseiged by the eldest son of John Murray, 1st Marquess of Atholl. In late July, Jacobite reinforcements arrived at Blair forcing John Murray to abandon the seige of his ancestral home. General Hugh Mackay, William and Mary's military commander in Scotland, marched north with his well-trained regiments to support John Murray.

Just before Blair, General Hugh MacKay's troops had to go through the Pass of Killiecrankie. At this point the road is entremely narrow: hemmed in by the cascading river Garry on one side and the steeply sloping hillside on the other. Once through the Pass, the army could spread out over flatter land, but retreating back down the Pass would have been virtually impossible, especially if the supply wagons were still coming through the Pass.

Mackay deployed his troops in a long line facing uphill, against the Highlanders, only three men deep to maximise their firepower. 'Bonnie Dundee' waited until the summer sun was about to set and no longer glaring in the faces of the Highlanders. It is said that about 600 Highlanders were killed or wounded as they charged downhill and smashed though the centre of MacKay's forces, wielding swords and axes. Mackay's men could only fire three volleys before inserting bayonets into their gun nozzles preventing further volleys. The soldiers closest to the Pass apparently fled without firing a shot. Mackay managed to get some of his troops to reform and rapidly retreat through the Pass, pursued by the Highlanders. Luckily for them, the looting of Mackay's baggage train prevented a complete massacre. After the battle, a third of Mackay's army (1,700 men) were dead, wounded or missing. Unfortunately for the Jacobites, John Graham of Claverhouse was fatally wounded.

This long stone across the path (in the foreground) is said to mark the place where
Brigadier Barthold Balfour of the Dutch Brigade died. He commanded the left wing of
General Mackay's redcoat army but, in the chaotic retreat along the narrow track
of the Pass, was overtaken by the Athollmen. It is said that the Highlanders called
on him to surrender, but his lack of Gaelic had fatal consequences.

Alexander Robertson and his clansmen arrived too later to participate in the Battle of Killiecrankie, but were involved in the Battle of Dunkeld a few weeks later. Alexander Robertson was captured by the Government forces soon afterwards and finished up in the Edinburgh Tollbooth. As a prisoner of war he was exchanged for Sir Robert Pollock of that Ilk. Thereafter he joined the exiled King James VIII at Saint-Germain-en-Laye and did not return to Scotland until 1703.

For his part in the Uprising, Alexander Robertson was considered to be attainted and his Struan estate was forfeit. However, letters between him and his mother show that money was being sent to him in 'St. Germain' and also Rotterdam later on. In 1703 it was arranged that he would be pardoned by Queen Anne and could return to Scotland, with his estate restored, but neither were officially ratified.

During the next ten years Alexander Robertson was quietly involved in the intrigues aimed at restoring the exiled Stuart Royal family. Ha also started to build up a large company of paid armed followers. This drain on his resources probably was one of the reasons why he 'fell out' with his sister, 'Black Margaret' of Struan.

The 1715 Jacobite Uprising

When Queen Anne died in August 1714 she was succeeded by Georg Ludwig, Elector of Hanover (George I). He favoured the Whigs in Parliamant rather than the Tories who lost their Anglican control in England, resulting in religious rioting in many parts of the country. Their leaders started secret negotiations with King James VIII for his restoration and the Jacobites, encouraged by the turmoil in England, started to plan for another Uprising which would restore the Stuart dynasty. The conspiracy in England was soon discovered and the ring-leaders arrested but the Scottish Jacobite leaders escaped from London and headed north.

On 5th September 1715, John Erskine, Earl of Mar, raised the Stuart standard at the Castle of Braemar, calling for the Highland Gentlemen to raise their men to join him. The Earl of Mar was in Kirkmichael the following day. Less than two weeks later, Alexander Robertson joined him with 300 clansmen. Some of the men were dispatched to Perth to re-inforce Col. Hay who was holding the town. Others were sent southwards towards Castle Campbell, near Dollar, in preparation for an attack on Stirling. Alexander Robertson was soon back in Rannoch, raising more fighting man for the cause, and capturing the Weem Castle. By the end of October Struan was commanding nearly 500 of his clansmen as the Jacobites moved south. Expecting support from sympathisers in England, the Earl of Mar sent a small detachment of Atholl Highlanders over the border towards Preston, while the rest marched towards the strategic stronghold of Stirling Castle.

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The Battle of Sheriffmuir, October 1715

The Government forces were led by John Campbell, the Duke of Argyll, who was a capable commander having served under the Duke of Marlborough during the War of the Spanish Succession. The Duke of Argyll had numerous spies, so he knew that he was outnumbered but also knew of Mar's intentions and decided to engage the Jacobite army before it could reach Stirling and cross the Forth.

The Battle of Sheriffmuir took place about three miles north-east of Dunblane, near Stone Hill. The Robertson battalion was arranged as the second line on the left, behind the Perthshire and Fifeshire riflemen, along with the Angus squadron of horse. Argyll's forces were not in sight but a small number were seen on Stone Hill, from where they could see the Jacobite army forming, ready for battle. The Earl of Mar conferred with the other leaders amd decided to march up to the height, dislodging the enemy, so that the readiness of Argyll's could be seen. The mounted battalions and McDonalds led the advance with the rest of the army following.

The clansmen on the right flank made a furious attack driving back the main body and left flank of Argyll's army, for about half a mile. killing and taking prisoners. However, the Jacobite left flank was now unprotected by the lack of mounted men, and was attacked by Argyll's Dragoons. As the soldiers retreated, Robert 'Ban' Robertson noticed that his cousin, the Chief, was not with them. Immediately he charged back, calling to his men to follow, and retrieved the lost laird.

It should be noted that Argyll had issued orders to take prisoners, rather than killing, if possible. A living nobleman can be ransomed, but a dead one is worthless. There is a story that just before he was rescued, Struan had surrendered and was about to hand over his purse to a trooper. As the rescue party bore down on him, the trooper ran for his life, shouting back "Your purse by rights is mine". The story claims that Struan agreed and, after finding out the trooper's name, sent the purse with sixty guineas to him at Carlisle. Whether the story is true, or not, is open to speculation but it would match Struan quixotic behaviour.

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The Siege of Preston, 1715

Culloden

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Duncan Robertson and Jean Robertson

Duncan Robertson married Jean Robertson, the daughter of William Robertson of Inches, 19 April, 1698. He is said to have died in Sweden in 1718.

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Generation 5: The Children of Duncan Robertson and Jean Robertson

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Eugene MacDonald of Glentialtien and Sybilla Robertson

The Testament Dative and Inventory of Robert Robertson, tacksman of Kinaldy, confirmed at Dunkeld the nineteenth day of June 1759, contains the following after the inventory:

"There is given up, resting to the defunct, the time foresaid of his decease, the sum of thirty five pounds Sterling money, or thereby, due by the deceased Mrs Silbeylla Robertson, who was spouse to Eugan McDonald of Glentilan, also deceased, and by Miss Mary McDonald, their daughter, both or one or others of them by tack obligation or other writt some way due".

After the Battle of Sherrifmuir ............engineered his escape.......

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John Comrie of Ross, Minister of Kenmore, and Alison Robertson

Alison (Elison) Robertson married John Comrie, Minister of Kenmore, about 1700

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Generation 5: The Children of John Comrie, Minister of Kenmore, and Alison Robertson

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Donald Robertson of Achinruie, Tutor of Struan, and Beatrix Graham

Donald Robertson was granted the lands of Achinruie (Auchinroy) on 5 February, 1630, amd was described as the second son to his father. Achinruie was disponed to Alexander Robertson, the son of the deceased Alexander Robertson of Tennandrie on 12 March, 1642.

When Donald's older brother, Alexander Robertson, 11th Chief of Clan Donnachaidh, died in 1636 his son and heir was only about 9 years old, so Donald became the boy's guardian and was known as the 'Tutor of Struan'.

Donald Robertson married Beatrix Graham, the sister of Patrick Graham (Black Pate), 4th of Inchbrakie, prior to 1649. Previously she had been married to Alexander Robertson of Inchmagranoch and Lude who died in 1639. She would have been in her 40s when she married her second husband and there were no children. Consequently, when the 'Poet Chief' died in 1749, the title passed to the lineage of his younger brother, Duncan 'Mor' Robertson of Drumachuine.

'Black Pate' was the trusted kinsman of James Graham, 1st Marquess of Montrose, and commanded the Atholl men, who took part in most of Montrose's victories. Patrick Graham gained the soubriquet of 'Black Pate', not because he was dark-haired (he was fair-haired), but from an incident in his youth when he was nearly killed by a gunpowder explosion. He escaped serious injury but the blast left him with particles of spent powder embedded under the skin.

In 1644 Montrose mustered his forces at a site close to Lude House, a natural meeting place, as the routes from Lochaber, Inverness, Braemar, Perth and Stirling converge at this point. Black Pate's Atholl men included the 'Tutor of Struan' and Duncan 'Mor' Robertson of Drumachuine, but not James Robertson of Invervack, their younger brother.

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Duncan 'Mor' Robertson, 1st of Drumachuine and Dorothy Stewart

Duncan 'Mor' Robertson was granted the lands of Murlaggan on 5th February 1630, being described as the third son of his father. He was the first Robertson to hold the lands of Drumachuine, next to Drumcastle. Murlaggan is the old name for the Dunalistair estate.

He married Dorothy, the sister of Neil Stewart of Foss, 8th July 1638, and is thought to have had five children.

Duncan 'Mor' Robertson served under 'Black Pate' Graham when Montrose won the battle of Tippermuir on 1st September 1644. It would seem that very few men died in the actual battle, but many perished when the Government Covenanter infantry fell back before the onslaught of the Irish and Highlanders, and fled back towards Perth.

The town of Perth surrendered to Montrose by evening of the same day. It is said that Duncan 'Mor' Robertson used his influence with Montrose to prevent the sacking of the town, but the Royalist army used the opportunity to replenish their supplies of weapons and ammunition, as well as food. Colkitto's Irish forces certainly had not joined Montrose for the glory of it, and cloth worth over £1,000 Scots was 'liberated' from the local merchants in the following two days.

Duncan 'Mor' Robertson died in 1687.

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Generation 3: The Children of Duncan 'Mor' Robertson, 1st of Drumachuine and Dorothy Stewart

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John Robertson, 2nd of Drumachuine and Cecilia Stewart

In 1677 John Robertson married Cecilia Stewart, the daughter of Robert Stewart of Fincastle. He is said to have been involved in the 1715 Jacobite Uprising, but is highly unlikely to have been involved in any of the battles as he would have been in his seventies.

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Generation 4: The Children of John Robertson, 2nd of Drumachuine and Cecilia Stewart

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Alexander Robertson, 3rd of Drumachuine and Margaret Robertson

Alexander Robertson of Drumachuine married Margaret Robertson in 1703. She was the eldest daughter of Patrick Robertson, 7th of Blairfettie and Ann Robertson.

The Testament Dative and Inventory of Duncan Stewart, minister of Blair Athole, which was confirmed at Dunkeld on 10th day of March 1730 shows that Alexander Robertson had borrowed the sum of three hundred merks Scots principal, with annual rent (interest) and expenses, contained in a bond granted to the said defunct by Alexander Robertson, wadsetter of Drumachuine of the date the eleventh day of January 1709 years. So the loan was still unpaid twenty-one years later with Alexander just paying interest every year, but now the debt was being called in.

Alexander Robertson of Drumachuine participated in the 1715 Jacobite Uprising, led by John Erskine, Earl of Marr. One part of the army aimed to control Scotland by taking Stirling, and ...... at Sheriffmuir, near to Dunblane. The second part of the army marched into England from Edinburgh and .......as far as Preston.

In 1726 it was provisionally agreed that Alexander Robertson, 3rd of Drumachuine, would be recognised as Clan Chief and heir to the lands of Struan, should Alexander Robertson, 17th of Struan, die without male issue.

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Donald Robertson of Woodsheal

Donald Robertson's first marriage is said to have been to a daughter of Donald Robertson 4th of Auchleeks, around 1670. His second marriage is even more vague, as only the surname of Stewart is known. Although Donald Robertson held Woodsheal in wadset from the Clan Chief, he probably was a tenant farmer in Achinruie. Achinruie was a large farm at 16 acres and the family were well off but there were no banks, so wealth had to be held as livestock, silver tableware or silver coinage, all of which could be pillaged. Alternatively, money could be lent to a trustworthy landowner, but the Reformation had frowned upon receiving interest from money-lending. With inflation at 4-5% the solution was an arrangement called ‘wadset’ whereby the borrower gave land to the lender as security and paid ‘annual rent’ instead of interest. It also entitled the lender to be styled with the name of the land held as security.

Donald Robertson died around 1715 and the Woodsheal wadset passed to his younger son, Charles. His older son, Robert 'Ban', took over the tenancy of Achinruie.

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Generation 4: the Children of Donald Robertson of Woodsheal

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Robert 'Ban' Robertson, tacksman of the Mill of Invervack

It is said that Robert 'Ban' Robertson was 104 years old when he died in 1777, and if this is correct than he was born around 1673. His eldest son, Donald, was born at Auchinruie in 1718 which would have made him aged about 45 at that time. Although Robert 'Ban' lived to a great age for those times, he probably was 5 to 10 years younger than claimed. When Amily, the daughter of Robert 'Ban' Robertson and Barbara Stewart was born in 1753, he would have been 80 years old! The suggestion is that Robert 'Ban' was born around 1683.

Robert 'Ban' Robertson seems to have married four time. His first wife was a Robertson who died childless within the year. His second wife was Christian Robertson, the daughter of Donald Robertson who was the brother of Patrick Robertson, 7th of Blairfettie. Prior to her marriage, Christian Robertson probably was living at Kinaldy with her brothers Alexander, Patrick and James.

Robert 'Ban' Robertson took over the ½ merk land (16 acres) of Achinruie in 1715, paying an annual rent of £1.1s.8d as it was a large farm. In October of that year he helped to rescue his Chief at the Battle of Sheriffmuir.

The Blair Atholl OPR, 11th May 1718, records that Robert 'Ban' Robertson and Christian Robertson still were living at Achinruie when their first child, Donald Robertson (of Woodsheal), was born. Later in the same year Robert 'Ban' Robertson became the tacksman of the Mill of Invervack, probably using some of the money that he had inherited from his father.

The Blair Atholl OPRs commence in 1718 when the minister, Mr Duncan Stewart, was replaced by Dr John Hamilton. Ministers were required to say “God bless the King” after the sermon as a sign of loyalty following the failed 1715 Jacobite Uprising, and most ministers complied, leaving the congregation to decide which king was being blessed. However, Mr Duncan Stewart, as a staunch Jacobite had prayed “God bless King James”, leaving no ambiguity and consequently was ousted by the Dunkeld Presbytery.

The Kirk Session minutes for 11th September 1718 show that Robert 'Ban' Robertson in Apersuaine or Invervack mill, being an important family head, was asked by Dr Hamilton, the new minister, to propose new Kirk Elders. Robert Robertson was a staunch Jacobite who would have favoured the usurped minister. Although he had his eldest son baptised by DR Hamilton, none of the other children were baptised until Dr Hamilton had left the parish.

Miltown of Invervack - not the miller...................

Robert 'Ban' Robertson's third wife was Janet Robertson, the daughter of James Robertson of Kindrochit (of Struan). His last wife was Barbara Stewart, the daughter of Neil Stewart who was the brother of John Stewart of Cammoch.

Rescued Chief at Sherrifmuir???? Robert 'Ban' Robertson's will in 1766. Mortcloth

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Generation 5: The Children of Robert 'Ban' Robertson, tacksman of the Mill of Invervack

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Donald Robertson and Amelia Robertson

Illegitimate child

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Generation 6: The Children of Donald Robertson and Amelia Robertson

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(7)Duncan Robertson and Charlotte Robertson in ................

text ...................

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Alexander Campbell and Margaret Robertson in Drumachuine

Was Margaret Robertson born in France, or did her mother Amelia Robertson return to Scotland without her husband?

Margaret Robertson was living at Invervack when she married. Perhaps Amelia Robertson was staying as a guest of her nephew. The at in the entry indicates that this was not her normal abode or, at least, not the residence of her father.

20th July 1782, Logierait OPR
Alexander Campbell in Drumcastle in this parish and Poggy (Peggy i.e. Margaret) Robertson at Innervack (Invervack), parish of Blair Atholl booked for proclamation - Granted a line that they were booked.

Some sources identify her husband as Alexander Campbell of Corriecharmick and Glen Lochay, but the OPR entries concerning the baptisms of his children merely refer to him as 'in Drumachuine' or 'in Kinloch' (i.e. Kinlochrannoch). Drumachuine was situated in a detached section of Logierait parish, quite distant from the parish church, so the spiritual needs of the people were met by a part-time 'mission preacher'. Perhaps it is not surprising that some of the baptisms were recorded in Fortingall parish which was much closer.

14th December 1782, Logierait OPR Marjory, lawful daughter to Alexander Campbell and Margaret Robertson in Drumachuine.

15th February 1786, Logierait OPR Marjory, lawful daughter to Alexander Campbell and Margaret Robertson in Drumachuine was baptised.

12th April 1788, Fortingall OPR James, son to Alexander Campbell and Margaret Robertson in ......... was baptised.

26th May 1790, Fortingall OPR Archibald, son to Alexander Campbell and Margaret Robertson in ......... was baptised.

7th September 1792, Fortingall OPR Charlotte, daughter to Alexander Campbell and Margaret Robertson in ......... was baptised.

12th December 1794, Fortingall OPR Alexander, son to Alexander Campbell and Margaret Robertson in ......... was baptised.

31st March 1797, Fortingall OPR Donald, son to Alexander Campbell and Margaret Robertson in Kinloch was baptised.

29th March 1799, Fortingall OPR Peter, son to Alexander Campbell and Margaret Robertson in ......... was baptised.

4th August 1801, Fortingall OPR Emilia, daughter to Alexander Campbell and Margaret Robertson in ......... was baptised.

24th February 1804, Fortingall OPR Betty (Beatrix?), daughter to Alexander Campbell and Margaret Robertson in ......... was baptised.

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Generation 7: The Children of Alexander Campbell and Margaret Robertson in Drumachuine

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Duncan Robertson and (unknown) in Duneaves?

Duncan Robertson married around 1745/46...............maybe. At least there is family ....................

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Alexander Robertson in Miltown of Invervack

A Kirk Session meeting was called for 21st April 1746, at Bochonie in Glenerrochty, the Minister and Alexander Robertson, Kirk Elder, being present.

Elspeth Kennedy, daughter to Malcolm Kennedy in Bochonie, was called and was asked who had fathered the child lately brought forth. She answered it to be Alexander Robertson, son to Robert 'Ban' Robertson in Milntown of Invervack. Asked whether she had acquainted the said Alexander Robertson with her pregnancy, she replied that she had not the opportunity, but that she sent Elspeth McDonald in Toulich of Glen Errochty to acquaint him, about the latter end of October last. Elspeth McDonald was summoned and said that she had delivered the message to Alexander Robertson who had answered that he would, if ever he returned from the (Jacobite) army, do all duty to the said Elspeth Kennedy, as father to her child, and also would write to Alexander Robertson in Kinaldy, the Elder, on her behalf.

Their child, a girl, was baptised 11th May 1746 and named Christian. The Kirk Session minutes for 12th May 1746 show that Malcolm Kennedy in Bochonie gave in his bill of £19 Scots for the fine incurred by his daughter.

Unfortunately the father, Alexander Robertson, had been killed at Culloden, 16th April 1746. However, it would appear that Alexander's father took the child into his family at Miltown of Invervack as John Robertson in Dondamharg and Christian Robertson in Miltown of Invervack, married 28th November 1765.

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Charles Robertson in Miltown of Invervack

Robert 'Ban' Robertson's fourth son, Charles, probably was born around 1724 and never married.

During the 1745 Jacobite Rising Charles Robertson was enlisted in the Atholl Brigade ................. along with his brothers Donald and Alexander. He would have been around 21 years old at the time.

In 'No Quarter Given - the muster roll of Prince Charles Edward Stuart's army, 1745-46, it is stated that he was killed at Culloden. This is obviously incorrect as he legated money to his sister Amelia, who was not born until August 1753. Most likely, he was seriously injured in the conflict, but managed to return home to Miltown of Inverack, and lived there until his death. The Blair Atholl Session minutes for 12th February 1761 record that a crown was paid in for the use of the mortcloth at the funeral of Charles Robertson in Miltown of Invervack.

The Latterwill and Testament of Robert 'Ban' Robertson, Charles's father witnessed on 6th April 1776, mentions that Charles had left his sister Amelia a legacy of 100 merks Scots, which was being held by their father Robert 'Ban'. This 100 merks Scots may well have been Charles's share of his father's estate, made prior to Robert 'Ban' marrying for the fourth time.

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John Robertson of Wester Reimore and Beatrice Robertson in Guay

John Robertson of Wester Reimore, in Guay, Dowally parish and Beatrice Robertson in the Mill of Invervack, married 30th July 1752.

John Robertson possessed Wester Reimore as a vassal of the Duke of Atholl, and would have paid an annual feu duty to him. However, it would seem that he lived at Guay. This would have been much more convenient as it was on the road between Perth and Inverness, whereas Wester Riemore was much further inland, east of Loch Ordie. The baptismal records of his children give his title 'of Wester Reimore', but do not state where the family were living.

John Robertson is thought to have been the eldest son of Alexander Robertson of Reimore, who was the second son of Capt John Robertson, 2nd of Guay. So Robert 'Ban' Robertson's daughter Beatrice had married into a family with deep rooted Jacobite sympathies. Capt John Robertson had been taken prisoner at Preston during the 1715 Rising. His eldest son, John, was an officer in the Jacobite army during the 1745 Rising, and his younger son, Alexander, was an Ensign. It is said that Alexander's son John also was enlisted and, if so, he might be the John Robertson in Ballintuim (of Guay) listed in 'No Quarter Given' under the heading 'other ranks'.

Beatrice Robertson appears in the Caputh OPRs as 'Betty'. This name is not the diminuitive for Elizabeth but is derived from 'Beattie'.

In 1766 John Robertson of Wester Reomore (Riemore) and Betty Robertson his spouse had all of their children baptised at the same time and their names were entered in the Caputh OPR.

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The children of John Robertson of Wester Reimore and Beatrice Robertson in Guay

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Neill Robertson and Jean Fergusson in Miltown of Invervack

In 1765 Niel Robertson had an illegitimate daughter by Janet McDougal in Kirkton of Struan, as shown by the Blair Atholl Kirk Session minutes:

31st March 1765, Janet McDougal, servant to Robert Robertson in Miltown of Invervack, appeared, owned guilt and pregnancy, and gave up Neill Robertson, her master's son, as father to it. Said Neill Robertson appeared and acknowledged her accusation.

28th April 1765, Neill Robertson in Miltown of Invervack appeared before the Congregation for his fornication with Janet McDougal, now in Kirkton of Struan, was rebuked and having paid £10 Scots as his own and said party's fines, was dismissed.

13th September 1767, Janet McDougal in Kirkton of Struan made her first appearance for her fornication with Neill Robertson in Miltown of Invervack, was rebuked and was ordered to appear again, Sabbath next at Blair.

8th November 1767, Janet McDougal in Kirkton of Struan made her second appearance for her fornication with Neill Robertson in Miltown of Invervack, was rebuked and dismissed.

The child was baptised 10th July 1765 and named Christian (Robertson).

Niel Robertson was 40 years old when he married Jean Fergusson, the daughter of James Fergusson of Dunfallandy.

17th March 1781, Blair Atholl OPR
Niel Robertson in Miltown of Invervack and Jean Fergusson in Mains of Dunfallandy, Logierait parish (marriage banns)

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Generation 6: The children of Neill Robertson and Jean Fergusson in Miltown of Invervack

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Duncan McDiarmid (McDermaid) and Barbara Robertson in Edinburgh

7th July 1811, Blair Atholl OPR
Duncan MacDiarmid in Edinburgh and Barbara Robertson in Achinruie, marriage banns

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Generation 7: The children of Duncan McDiarmid (McDermaid) and Barbara Robertson in Edinburgh

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John (Iain) Robertson and Jessie Cameron in Achinruie

24th February 1833, Blair Atholl OPR
John Robertson in Achinruie and Jessie Cameron in Trinafour (marriage banns)

Jessie Cameron was the daughter of Archibald Cameron.

The 1841 census for Achinruie shows John Robertson had three children by that time. There were two other families living at Achinruie and a couple of make servants.

Ten years later 1851 census shows that John Robertson was farming 16 acres. The identity of 11-year-old Mary Ann Magdalane from Perth is a mystery as there do not appear to have been any families of that name in the area.

Jessie (Cameron), widow of John Robertson, farmer, died 17th September 1885 at Miltown of Invervack, aged 87 years. Parents given as Alexander Cameron, farmer, and Jessie McDonald, both deceased. The informant was her son Neil Robertson, in Dunfallandy House, Pitlochry.

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Generation 7: The children of John (Iain) Robertson and Jessie Cameron in Achinruie

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Alexander Robertson and Jean Fergusson in New Scone and St Andrews

By 1825 Alexander Robertson had become a Lieutenant in the army. Eventually he became a Captain in the 33rd (The Duke of Wellington's) Regiment. From 1822, the 33rd Regiment was garrisoning in Jamaica for ten years.

He married his cousin, Jean (Jane) Fergusson, the daughter of Archibald Fergusson of Dunfallandy, Logierait. He died at Versailles in 1864. His widow died at Merchiston Park, Edinburgh, in 1882

16th October 1825, Blair Atholl OPR
Lieut. Alexander Robertson in Achinruie and Miss Jean Fergusson in Dunfallandy, Logierait (marriage banns)

24th February 1828, Scone OPR
Captain Alexander Robertson, late of the 33rd Foot, presently residing in New Scone and Jean Fergusson, daughter of General Fergusson of Dunfallandy, had a son born the 24th (January) and baptised the 20th (February) by the name of Archibald.

After the birth of their son Alexander the family moved to St Andrews in Fife, where Alexander was on half-pay from the army, as shown by the 1841 census.

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The children of Alexander Robertson and Jean Fergusson in St Andrews, Fife

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John Robertson and Ann Stewart in Wester Invervack

It is said that John Robertson married Ann Stewart and this seems possible as the couple had four children whilst living in Wester Invervack, and the choice of Clementina as a forename suggests social connections. The exact location of the family in unclear as the term 'Wester Invervack' covered Margrochach, Margagheat, Markdou, Dondamharg, Balnadalloch (the Haugh of Invervack) and Miltown of Invervack. Also it is unclear why John Robertson was living in Craig of Clunes when he married.

18th June 1778, Blair Atholl OPR
John Robertson in Craig of Clunes and Ann Stewart in Laigh of Orchil, Moulin Parish, (marriage banns).

The death certificate of their unmarried daughter Jean (Jane) Robertson who died at Kynachan, Foss, 26th June 1864 aged 85 years shows that both her parents were deceased. Her father, John Robertson, had been an Officer of Excise. This appears to have been the same Excise Officer, mentioned in the petition to the Duke of Atholl by the Strathtummel men, who was making it difficult for them to get illicitly distilled whisky to customers on the other side of the Kynachan bridge (Tummelbridge), in order to pay their farm rents.

At the time of the 1861 census Jane Robertson was livimg at Kynachan, Foss, with Walter Stewart and his three unmarried sisters. She was described as an unmarried relative, aged 81 years.

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The children of John Robertson and Ann Stewart in Wester invervack

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Archibald McDiarmid and Amelia Robertson in Blairfettie and Cuiltalosgin

4th April 1776, Blair Atholl OPR
Archibald McDiarmid, schoolmaster at Struan and Amelia Robertson in Miltown of Invervack (marriage banns).

The first parish reference to Archibald McDiarmid, schoolmaster is in the Kirk Session minutes where, on 27th July 1772, £4 4s Scots was paid to Archibald McDiarmid, schoolmaster at Struan, for what he had advanced for the funeral of James Stewart in Dalinturuaine, who died at Glenlyon. Why he had paid for the funeral is unclear - perhaps he was just a kind fellow. Dalinturuaine, which is on the Inverness road north of Bruar, was populated mainly by Robertsons. But in 1759 a James Stewart was living there. He married Margaret Gow in Dalinturuaine on 20th November 1759. Their two children, Alexander and Janet, were baptised in 1760 and 1763 respectively.

Although Archibald McDiarmid was a schoolmaster, it is not certain that he continued in this role after his marriage. Initially the couple were living at Blairfettie where their first two children were born, but by 1781 the family had moved to Cuiltalosgin where the rest of the family were born. They appear to have been there until at least 1803 as Margaret (Peggy) McDiarmid, their eldest daughter, was living there when she married James Robertson in Bochonie, 30th December 1802. The marriage certificate of his daughter Catharine shows that Archibald McDiarmid was a farmer when he died in Blair Atholl parish, at some time before September 1819.

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The children of Archibald McDiarmid and Amelia Robertson in Blairfettie and Cuiltalosgin

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Niel McDiarmid and Margaret Kerr in Dunfermline

Niel McDermid (McDermaid) became a successful contractor in Dunfermline. He married Margaret Ker (Kerr) on 23rd November 1810. She was the daughter of John Kerr and Margaret Pearson. The Kerr family were influential in Dunfermline. Margaret's older brother, John Kerr jnr. owned a yarn bleaching business and became the Provost of Dunfermline (1831-32). Her younger brothers, Robert and James, ran a damask weaving business and introduced Jacquard weaving machines into Dunfermline, making it easier to produce complex patterns. James Kerr married Christian Pearson in November 1835 and she seems to have been his cousin. James Kerr and his wife lived at Middlebank House.

Considering the success of the family business, it seems odd that three of their sons emigrated to Australia.

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The children of Niel McDiarmid and Margaret Kerr in Dunfermline

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Amelia McDiarmid in Dunfermline

Amelia McDiarmid (b 1819) married the Rev. Dr. Andrew Sutherland who was the minister of St Andrews Church in Dunfermline. The Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York has a photograph of him, taken in 1845 by David Octavius Hill, one of the pioneers of photography. David Octavius Hill was married to Amelia McDiarmid Paton (1821-1904) and the two Amelias were first cousins.

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Margaret Pearson McDiarmid in Dunfermline and Gibraltar

The Edinburgh Sheriff Court registered the Will and Testament of Margaret McDiarmid in February 1870. Although she lived in Dunfermline for most of her life, her latter years were spent in Gibraltar. In her Will she left all of her possessions to her sister Amelia, the wife of Rev. Andrew Sutherland.

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James McDiarmid in Edinburgh

James McDiarmid appears in the Edinburgh Directory of 1813, when he would have been 30 years old. He is listed as a baker, living at 167 Rose Street, but where he learnt this trade is unknown. The following year he was living at East Register Street and by 1815 he had moved to 10 St Andrews Street. This was his residence until 1820 but from 1815 until 1819 the Edinburgh Directory listed him as John McDiarmid, before reverting to James in 1820. His sister Catharine was living with him when she married Joseph Neil Paton.

There is no evidence that James McDiarmid married or had any children. Likewise, his death does not seem to have been recorded and he does not appear in the 1841 census, as far as is known.

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Joseph Neil Paton and Catharine McDiarmid in Dunfermline

Catharine McDiarmid probably left Blair Atholl for Edinburgh to act as a house-keeper for her brother James McDiarmid who was a baker. Both of them were living at St Andrews Street in 1819.

Catharine McDiarmid married Joseph Neil Paton in 1819, but the marriage banns are not obvious on ScotlandsPeople as (currently) her husband is indexed as Joseph Neil, missing out the surname. The actual entry in the Canongate (Edinburgh) OPR reads as follows:

(23rd September 1819) Paton, Joseph Neil, damask painter, West Jack's Close, Canongate, Horsburgh's Land, 3rd story and Catharine McDiarmid, St Andrews Street Edinburgh, daughter of the late Archibald McDiarmid, farmer, parish of Blair Athol, gave up their names for marriage. Certified by James McDiarmid, baker, St Andrews Street, Edinburgh, and Davie Gibson, painter, West Jack's Close, Canongate.

Joseph Neil Paton studied at the Trustees' Drawing Academy in Edinbugh which specialised in designing patterns for the linen and wool industries. He was deeply interested in antiquities, and this may have been how he met Catharine McDiarmid who has been described as a folklorist. Being the grand-daughter of Robert 'Ban' Robertson she would have heard much of the Blair Atholl folklore. In addition, she was related to Carolina Oliphant (Lady Nairne), the Scottish songwriter responsible for 'Charlie is my Darling' and 'Will ye no' come back again?'

There is no doubt that Joseph Neil Paton was highly talented. He designed numerous patterns for the damask tablecloths being mass-produced by Erskine Beveridge's weaving business in Dunfermline. The company mounted a prodigious display at the Great Exhibition, and over 700 examples of Paton's designs are held by the Victoria and Albert Museum in London. Erskine Beveridge spent much of his leisure time photographing Scottish antiquities, many of which no longer exist.

Joseph Neil Paton was the father of the famous artists Sir Joseph Noel Paton and Hugh Waller Paton. His daughter Amelia McDairmid Paton (aka Amelia Robertson Hill) was a talented sculptor who created the David Livingstone statue, next to the Scott Memorial in Edinburgh which also contains her work - Richard the Lionheart, Magnus Troil and Minna Troil

The Dunfermline Historial Society has a fascinating and informative web-page by George Robertson FSAScot, concerning the family with emphasis on their eldest daughter, the sculptor and artist Amelia McDiarmid Paton . It is entitled:

Amelia Robertson Paton - Dunfermline's Famous Lady of Sculpture.

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The children of Joseph Neil Paton and Catharine McDiarmid in Dunfermline

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Duncan 'na feusaig' Robertson

Duncan 'na feusaig' Robertson (of the beard) is reputed to have fought at the Battle of Killiecrankie in 1689. As Alexander Robertson and his clansmen arrived too late to participate in the actual Battle of Killiecrankie, it is more likely that he was involved in the subsequent Battle of Dunkeld a few days later.

He is said to have married a daughter of John Grant, 6th of Ballindalloch, the husband of Margaret Leslie.

Only one child has been identified from the marriage, but the evidence suggests that there was a younger brother, Charles.

Charles Robertson married Isabell Duff, the daughter of Neil Duff in Achinruie. This shows that Charles Robertson came from a family of upper social class, as Neil Duff was a highly respected Kirk Elder. Neil Duff lived at Achinruie which also was the home of Charles Robertson's uncle, Donald Robertson of Woodsheal, and possibly his father as well. Either way Charles Robertson and Isabell Duff would have known each other from an early age. Charles's eldest son was named Duncan at baptism, but this may not be significant as the Robertson were not renowned for following the traditional naming pattern. Lastly, the families of both Charles and his brother Alexander farmed at Kinaldy and Cuiltalosgin.

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Generation 4: The children of Duncan 'na feusaig' Robertson

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Alexander Robertson and Janet Robertson in Kinaldy

Alexander married Janet Robertson, the daughter of Donald Robertson who was brother to Patrick Robertson of Blairfettie.

Alexander Robertson was one of the clansmen supporting their Chief at the Battle of Sheriffmuir in November 1715.

The Kirk Session minutes for 11th September 1718 show that the new Minister approached some of the heads of important families, to propose Kirk Elders who would be moral, judicious, honest and knowing men. One of these was Alexander Robertson in Cuiltalosgin. A final list was drawn up on 1st March 1719 and Alexander Robertson became a Kirk Elder with responsibilty for Glenerrochty. On 17th December 1721 the Kirk Session minutes mention that he collected 5 merks from Alexander 'Beg' Robertson in Trinafour, part of his fine for adultery.

In April 1746 he was dealing with the illegitimate child of Alexander Robertson in Miltown of Invervack. In October 1748 he was examining the Struan Treasurer's Accounts for the Kirk Session, and in October 1749 he was chosen as Ruling Elder for the Provincial Synod meeting at Perth. Obviously a man, trusted and well respected.

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Generation 5: The Children of Alexander Robertson and Janet Robertson in Kinaldy

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Donald Robertson and Helen Stewart in Kinaldy and Nova Scotia

Donald Robertson was a lieutenant in the Jacobite army and had a hand severely damaged at the Battle of Culloden.

30th July 1752, Blair Atholl OPR
Donald Robertson in Kinaldy and Hellen Stewart at Bridgend of Bruar, marriage banns.

The 1755/6 Forfeited Estates Census shows that Donald Robertson was co-tenant of 9 arable acres (about a third) of Kinaldy with Alexander Robertson. In theory, the Alexander Robertson could have been Donald Robertson's father or brother. However, as Alexander is listed before Donald, he is assumed to be Donald's father.

The census shows that Donald had two sons under the age of ten, so these would have been Alexander and William. There were two other adult males in the extended family, who probably were Donald's younger brothers, Alexander and John. His brother James had been killed in 1746. Also, there were two adult females, in addition to Donald's wife Helen. One of these probably was Donald's mother, Janet Robertson. Depending on the exact date of when the census was carried out, might have been Margaret Robertson, married to Donald's brother John in August 1756. Five of the family could speak English. These would have been adults as children were taught English when they went to school, so at least one of the women could speak English.

Domestic and farm servants were not included in the census, just the immediate family of the tenant.

The farm was prosperous as the livestock was listed as 12 horses, 20 black cattle, 60 sheep and 4 pigs. Chickens would not have been included as they had little monetary value. In addition to the usual oats and barley (bere) quite a lot of flax had been sown to produce linen yarn, and all of the adult women could spin yarn, as was expected of them. Although their neighbours were growing a few potatoes, a new crop being promoted by the estate factor, Donald and his father were yet to be convinced.

At some time between February 1759 and January 1761, Donald and his family moved from Kinaldy to Bochonie where the last five of his children were born.

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Generation 6: The children of Donald Robertson and Helen Stewart in Kinaldy and Nova Scotia

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Alexander Robertson and Margaret McDonald (Paisley Peg)
in Big Island (Merigomish), Nova Scotia

Alexander Robertson was one of the first settlers on Big Island arriving in 1787. He came at the invitation of his cousin Lieut. Col. Alexander Robertson of the 82nd Regiment of Foot (Hamilton's). After the failure of the American invasion of Canada the regiment was disbanded in 1784. However, the British Government decided to establish a buffer zone by offering land grants to former soldiers, who would settle the border areas with their families. Lieut. Col. Alexander Robertson, who was the brother of Duncan Robertson 4th of Drumchuine, was granted 1,500 acres in 1785 which he decided to settle with his Clan Donnachaidh (Robertson) relatives.

There is a monument to Alexander Robertson and his wife in the Murray's Point Cemetery, Lower Barney's River, Pictou County, Nova Scotia.

Alexander Robertson,
a native of Perthshire, Scotland,
died at Big Island
April 23rd 1821 aged 67 years.
Also his wife Margaret McDonald,
a native of Paisley,
died 17th February 1870
in her 98th year.

If this memorial is accurate then Margaret McDonald was born around 1772. This makes it unlikely that the couple were married before Alexander Robertson arrived in Nova Scotia.

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Generation 7: The children of Alexander Robertson and Margaret McDonald (Paisley Peg)
in Big Island (Merigomish), Nova Scotia

Some web-sites claim that the first two children were born in Blair Atholl parish: Robert, 12th May 1781; and Donald around 1781. The Blair Atholl OPR baptism data for Robert gives the parents as Alexander Robertson and Margaret Robertson in Blairfettie. However, in Scotland, the spouse would not be recorded by her married name, always her maiden name. So this is not Margaret McDonald. The Donald Robertson birth/baptism is equally spurious.

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Walter Murray and Christian Robertson in Big Island (Merigomish), Nova Scotia

There is a monument to Christian Robertson or Murray in the Murray's Point Cemetery, Lower Barney's River, Pictou County, Nova Scotia.

In .....n of Christian Robertson, wife of Walter Murray who departed this life 3rd October 1839 in the 32nd year of her age. ....................... her eldest and youngest daughters, Margaret and Amelia. Amelia died March ....1810 aged 5 month and 26 days. She was 5 days old when her mother expired.

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Generation 8: The children of Walter Murray and Christian Robertson in Big Island, Nova Scotia

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James Robertson in Big Island (Merigomish), Nova Scotia

There is a monument to James Robertson in the Murray's Point Cemetery, Lower Barney's River, Pictou County, Nova Scotia.

Here lies interred the body of
James Robertson, of the Big Island
who departed this life on the 26th day of July AD 1829
in the 75th year of his age.
He was a native of Perthshire, North Britain.
Emigrated to Nova Scotia in the year 1801
He lived and died in hope of obtaining through faith,
that heavenly inheritance which Christ hath purchased for his people.

James Robertson is said to have had seven children: Donald; Alexander (Sandy); Margaret; Catherine; Ann; Christy and Helen. Name of wife and where married ???

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Duncan McGregor and Marjory (May) Robertson in Torrachruie, Fortingall parish

There are no marriage entries in the Blair Atholl OPR from 14th December 1781 until 26th August 1784 but adjacent parishes mention some marriages relating to the parish in the period. One of these is the marriage of Duncan McGregor in Fortingall parish to May Robertson in Blair Atholl parish, dated 14th December 1783.

14th December 1783, Fortingall OPR
Eodem die (on the same day) Duncan McGregor in this parish and May Robertson in the parish of Blair in Atholl gave up their names (in order to marriage).

Duncan McGregor may have been living at Torr a'Chruidh (Torrachruie) when he married, as this is where their first child was born.

Torr a'Chruidh (Torrachruie), west of Kinlochrannoch

The baptisms recorded in the Fortingall OPR show that the family moved from Torrachruie to Aulich at some time between 1791 and 1796.

24th March 1785, Fortingall OPR
Janet, daughter to Duncan McGregor and Marjory Robertson in Torrchruidh (was baptised)

1st November 1791, Fortingall OPR
Janet, daughter to Duncan McGregor and Marjory Robertson in Torrchruidh (was baptised)

2nd May 1796, Fortingall OPR
John, son to Duncan McGregor and Uslar Marjory Robertson in Aulich (was baptised).

It is unclear why 'Uslar' was written in front of Marjory Robertson's name. 'Ursula'?

1st September 1797, Fortingall OPR
Ewen, son to Dunc. McGregor and May Robertson in Aulich (was baptised)

19th January 1806, Fortingall OPR
Ewen Alexander James, son to Duncan McGregor and Marjory Robertson in Aulich (was baptised)

In this entry the 'Ewen' has been scored through with 'James' written afterwards. Above the scored out Ewen, 'Alex' is written faintly.

9th April 1808, Fortingall OPR
Ann, daughter to Duncan McGregor and Mary Robertson in Aulich (was baptised)

Although this entry has the wife's forename as 'Mary', it appears to be a clerical error. The couple are living at Aulich and the Fortingall OPR does not have marriage banns for any Duncan McGregor and Mary Robertson.

It is assumed that the family were still living at Aulich in December 1833 as Aulich was given as Isabel McGregor's residence when she married Alexander McGlashan. Certainly, the 1841 census return for Aulich in Rannoch district seems to include members of the family.

This would match with (Alexander) James taking over the farm and supporting his sisters Janet and Ann. The second Janet might be his wife. It is thought that the 2-year-old Robertson McGregor was the son of Ewen McGregor and Janet Munro in Perth.

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Generation 7: The children of Duncan McGregor and Marjory (May) Robertson in Torrachruie, Fortingall parish

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James McGregor and Anne (Harrison) McGlashan in Big Island, Nova Scotia

As previously mentioned, the Fortingall OPR entry for the baptism of James on 19th January 1806 is slightly confused. The entry reads - Ewen Alexander James, son to Duncan McGregor and Marjory Robertson in Aulich (was baptised), but the 'Ewen' has been scored through with 'James' written afterwards and 'Alex' written faintly above the scored out Ewen.

James McGregor married Anne (Harrison) McGlashan.

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The children of James McGregor and Ann Harrison (McGlashan) on Big Island

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Alexander Robertson and Beatrice Robertson in Kinaldy and Cuiltalosgin

12th May 1745 The Kirk Session minutes record that Alexander Robertson, younger, in Kinaldy, an unmarried man, on 29th April last, came voluntarily and acknowledged guilt with Beatrix Robertson, an unmarried woman, (daughter of Duncan Robertson) in Kinaldy, and gave up his bill to satisfy Church discipline.

7th July 1745 Alexander Robertson, younger, in Kinaldy, appeared twice before the Congregation for his fornication with Beatrix Robertson in Kinaldy, and paid a crown as part of his fine.

1st February 1747 Alexander Robertson, in Kinaldy, paid £1 Scots, and with the crown paid before, the Session accepted this as complete payment for his fine and his party's, since he had married her (13th November 1746), and returned his bill.

13th November 1746, Blair Atholl OPR
Alexander Robertson, younger, in Kinaldy and Beatrix Robertson, daughter to Duncan Robertson in Kinaldy (marriage banns).

The couple had three children born at Kinaldy, before the family moved to Cuiltalosgin-beg (Wester Cuiltalosgin) where Grissel and Margaret were born.

The Kirk Session minutes show that on 25th June 1749 Alexander Robertson in Cuiltalosgin-beg gave in his bill of £10 Scots, payable 1st October current, in case Isobel Robertson, Charles Gow's party in fornication, did not appear before the Congregation. It is unclear why he felt the need to do this, unless Isobel Robertson was a relative. She had been working as a servant woman to Charles Gow's father, Alexander Gow, snr. in Blair.

Alexander Robertson must have died soon after the birth of Margaret in November 1751 as the Forfeited Estates census of 1755 shows that Beatrix Robertson was one of the three tenants of Cuiltalogin, renting 4 of the 16 acres under tillage (cultivation).

The census shows that Beatrix Robertson with one son and one daughter under the age of 10. In addition there was an adult male over the age of 17. The identity of this adult male is unknown but most likely it was one of Beatrix's relatives, helping her to keep the farm functioning.

The farm livestock included 10 horses, 7 Black cattle, 48 sheep and 5 pigs, but no goats. As well as the usual oats and barley, both flax (for spinning linen yarn) and potatoes were being grown. Although Beatrix Robertson could spin, nobody in the household could speak English.

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Generation 6: The children of Alexander Robertson and Beatrice Robertson in Kinaldy and Cuiltalosgin

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James Robertson in Kinaldy

This may be the same James Robertson who was given a testificate (character reference) by the Kirk Session on 29th April 1744, being described as a shoemaker in Perth, the son of Alexander Robertson in Kinaldy.

Like his brother Donald, James Robertson was a lieutenant in the Jacobite army and fought at Culloden. He escaped unharmed from the carnage when all was lost and returned to Blair Atholl, along with his brother. In the summer of 1746, before Parliament passed the Act of Indemnity in June 1747, two companies of the Black Watch were ordered to search the area around Blair Atholl for any rebellious Jacobite clansmen who were 'lurking'. James Robertson, one of those in hiding, was taken by surprise by a party of government troops and refused to surrender as he had been an officer. Totally outnumbered, he was slain after a gallant defence taking two of his assailants with him.

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Donald McGlashan and Ann Robertson in ...........

5th July 1787, Blair Atholl OPR
Donald McGlashan in Invervack and Ann Robertson in Bochonie (marriage banns)

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John Robertson of Invervack and Margaret Robertson in Kinaldy

As John Robertson was only 16 years old at the outbreak of the 1745 Jacobite Rising. As a consequence, he was given the responsibilty of leading a small band of men to guard Glenerrochty while his father and older brothers were away.

10th August 1756, Blair Atholl OPR
John Robertson in Kinaldy and Margaret Robertson in Miltown of Invervack, marriage banns

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Generation 6: The Children of John Robertson of Invervack and Margaret Robertson in Kinaldy

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Charles Robertson and Isabell Duff in Kinaldy and Cuiltalosgin

Charles Robertson married Isabell Duff around 1712. The Testament Dative and Inventory of Neill Duff, confirmed at Dunkeld, the second day of February 1732 years, states that the Inventory was truely made and given up by Isabell Duff spouse to Charles Robertson in Cuiltaloskin, and lawful daughter and executrix dative as nearest of kin. Neill Duff had lent thirty-one pounds Scots money to Donald Robertson of Auchleeks and Alexander Forbess in Drumnachastle, conjunctly and severaly, but the money had not been repaid by 1715 by which time Donald Robertson of Auchleeks was deceased. Neill Duff obtained a decreet against them at the Commissariot of Dunkeld upon the twenty-fourth day of February 1715, requesting with a fifth part more of expenses of plea. The money still was owing in 1732!

The baptisms of only two sons are recorded in the Blair Atholl OPRs - Alexander in 1719 and John in 1723, and both were born in Kinaldy. The Blair Atholl OPRs only commence in 1718, after their son Duncan was born. His existence comes from the Testament Dative and Inventory of David Cree in Toldunie which was confirmed at Dunkeld, 19th February 1754. It states that the sum of one hundred and five merks Scots principal, contained in a bill drawn by him upon and accepted by Charles Robertson in Cuiltalosgin and Donald Stewart of Dalvorest, and Duncan Robertson, eldest lawful son to Charles Robertson conjunctly and severally, dated the second day of March 1740 years, payable at the term of Martinmass then next. So both Charles Robertson and his son Duncan were alive in March 1740 and the family moved from Kinaldy to Cuiltalosgin at some time between 1723 and 1732.

Charles Robertson in Cuiltalosgin also had a daughter, although her baptism is not recorded in the Blair Atholl OPR. Some families only had the baptisms of sons formally recorded as one had to pay a fee. The existance of Margaret comes from her marriage banns which names her father as Charles Robertson in Cuiltalosgin in December 1744. Assuming that she was 23 when she married, then she was born around 1721, while the family were still at Kinaldy.

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Generation 5: The children of Charles Robertson and Isabell Duff in Kinaldy and Cuiltalosgin

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Duncan Robertson and Grissel Stewart in Achinruie and Tulloch

27th May 1747, Blair Atholl OPR
Duncan Robertson, son to Charles Robertson in Cuiltaloskin, and Grissel Stewart, sister to Pittenicy (marriage banns).

The homestead of Pittenicy has several different spellings, such as Pittanicie. buy to complicate matters it has the alternative name of Balanisie. The ruins of the settlement are in Glentilt, on the east side of the river, just past the bridge before Clachglas.

Just because Grissel Stewart was the sister of Pittenicy does not mean that she, or her brother, were living there. The 'of' indicates that the settlement was held in wadsett, as a security for a loan to the Duke of Atholl. One interesting note is that Mrs James Stewart in Pittenacie, widow, was given financial help by the Kirk Session on 24th June 1753. This would suggest that James Stewart was Grissel's father.

Duncan Robertson and Grissel Stewart had four children baptised between 1749 and 1759, the first two at Achinruie and the latter two at Tulloch of Glenerrochty.

The Blair Atholl Kirk Session minutes for 27th January 1771 notes that the Minister reported that he had settled Mr Duncan Stewart's mortification of £11 Sterling with two year's annual interest, payable Martinmass 1771, (previously) in the hands of Duncan Robertson of Auchleeks, upon Donald Cameron in Cuiltalosgin and Duncan Robertson in Tulloch, per their conjunct bill, which the Session approved of.

Duncan Robertson and his family were living at Tulloch when the the Forfeited Estates census was carried out in 1755/6. Unfortunately there were two Duncan Robertsons living there. Neither had any sons, so John Robertson must have died in childhood. However, both had daughters. As one of them had what appears to have been an adult son, it is assumed that Charles's DDuncan Robertson was the younger, junior, of the two.

Duncan Robertson jnr. had two daughters under the age of 10 but no sons. Duncan could speak English and his wife was able to spin yarn. They had just over 1 acres in cultivation and were growing flax and potatoes in addition to the usual ots and barley. Their livestock consistes of 2 horses, 4 black cattle and 26 sheep, but no pigs nor goats.

In March 1774 Duncan Robertson in Tulloch bacame cautioner for Donald Robertson in Balwherne. Donald Robertson was attempting to force Donald McDonald of Lochgarry to repay money owed to his deceased father, Alexander Robertson in Kinaldy (Testament, 1774). As Lochgarry was one of the forfeited estates after the 1745 Jacobite Rising, that would not have been easy.

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The children of Duncan Robertson and Grissel Stewart in Achinruie and Tulloch

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James McDonald, alias Mannich, and Margaret Robertson in Wester Blairfettie

There were a number of families which had alternative names, or used an alias, and they are not always apparent when using databases. The McDonalds who used an alias tended to be called Caldel or Mannich, with various spellings. The Caldel McDonalds were concentrated in Glen Fincastle, Dull parish, while the Mannich McDonalds were to be found much further west in the parish. Other McDonalds used alias names such as Caanich, McGillandris and McHendras, but these were a minority.

Only one James McDonald can be identified living at Blairfettie and the OPR baptismal entry for Donald, his eldest son, uses both his two names. Accordingly, the following two entries in the Kirk Session minutes must be the same fellow.

6th October 1751
A testificate (character reference) was ordered for Donald Mackintosh and James Mannoch, both in Wester Blairfettie, going along with Patrick Robertson in Tordou, the length of Stratharig (?), to prove a horse challenged there, belonging to the said Patrick Robertson.

17th March 1754
James Mannich in Blairfettie was given £1 4s Scots for a joist to help repair the bridge at Struan.

27th July 1760
Patrick Mannich in Easter Balrobie appeared for the first time, Sessionally, for his fornication with Janet Robertson, there, was rebuked, and gave in his bill conjunct with James Mannich in Blairfettie, of £20 Scots, payable 2nd September next.

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Generation 6: The children of James McDonald, alias Mannich, and Margaret Robertson in Wester Blairfettie

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Patrick Robertson and Isabel McFarlane in ............

Patrick Robertson married Isabel McFarlane around 1692

Charles Robertson in Miltown of Invervack

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Charles Robertson of Woodsheal

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The Blair Atholl Kirk Session minutes dated 3rd March 1723 record that Jannet Robertson, sometime fornicatrix with Charles Robertson brother to Robert Robertson in Invervack was to be searched for and summoned. The said Charles Robertson was also to be summoned, whenever he could be found. The summons were repested the following week, at Struan, so nobody seems to have known their whereabouts. The case was dropped as the Minister, Dr Hamilton, transferred to Kenmore parish soon afterwards.

By describing Jannet Robertson as sometime fornicatrix, it would suggest that the offence was not recent, especially as the Kirk Elders did not know where either party were living at that time. The Blair Atholl OPR contains no reference to an illegitimate child being baptised, so it may have preceeded the first baptismal records in 1718. Normally this type of lapse in Church Discipline was typical of younger men in their early twenties, so Charles Robertson may have been born around 1693.

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James Robertson of Invervack, 1st of Cuiltalosgin, and Margaret Robertson

On 29th June 1650 James Robertson was infefted (invested, i.e. given written, legal, possession of) the lands of Easter and Wester Cuiltalosgin in Glenerrochty by his nephew, Alexander Robertson 15th of Struan. On 3rd June 1659 he also was infefted with the 5 merk land of Invervack. These lands must have been held as security for a loan as, at a later date, Alexander Robertson redeemed the wadsett on Cuiltalosgin, Invervack and Kinaldy.

Unlike his two older brothers, Donald and Duncan, James Robertson did not participate in Montrose's campaign against the Government Covenantors. It is said that he argued with his brothers over the matter, but it is equally possible that he held back with their approval, just in case the venture went badly wrong for his older brothers and Clan Robertson in general.

James Robertson married Margaret Robertson, the daughter of Duncan Robertson 5th of Faskally and Grisel Fleming of Moness.

In October 1693 James Robertson seems to have split Cuiltalosgin between his two older sons. Duncan Robertson was given the wadsett for the larger part, Wester Cuiltalosgin, whilst his brother Alexander inherited the wadsett of the 20s land (Easter Cuiltalosgin). Both sons appear to have died unmarried as James's third son, Robert, eventually had the wadsett of Cuiltalosgin redeemed by Alexander Robertson of Struan.

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Generation 3: The Children of James Robertson of Invervack, 1st of Cuiltalosgin, and Margaret Robertson

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Robert Robertson and Isabel McPherson of Cuiltalosgin

Robert Robertson married Isabel, the daughter of the Rev Thomas MacPherson, around 1690.

The testament dative and inventory of John Stewart, merchant in Blair, which was confirmed at Dunkeld 21st January 1714, shows that John Stewart owed 50 merks to Robert Robertson of Cuiltalosgin with annual rent (interest) and expenses conformed to a decreet.

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Generation 4: The children of Robert Robertson and Isabel McPherson of Cuiltalosgin

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Robert 'Og' Robertson and Grissell Robertson in Cuiltalosgin

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Generation 5: The children of Robert 'Og' Robertson and Grissell Robertson in Cuiltalosgin

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James Robertson and Ann Robertson of Invervack and Cuiltalosgin

James Robertson married Ann Robertson, the daughter of Duncan 'Mor' Robertson, 1st of Drumachuine, around 1680.

Their only known son was Robert 'Mhor' Robertson, who was a Lieutenant in the 3rd East Kent Regiment of Foot, also known as the 'Old Buffs'.

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James Robertson and Ann Robertson of Invervack and Cuiltalosgin

Grissell Robertson married Charles Stewart, the brother of John Stewart of Bonskeid, around 1691.

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Alexander Stewart and Janet Robertson of Invervack

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George Stewart and Margaret Robertson of Bohespic

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Mary Robertson

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