Balquhidder, Scotland

Balquhidder, in Perthshire, is situated at the east end of Loch Voil, a loch at the foot of the Braes of Baiquhidder. The Maclaurins acquired the district as early as the 9th century and occupied it for several hundred years until ousted by the Macgregors, a neighboring clan, who had repeatedly raided their lands, and in 1558 slew the chief and many of his followers.

Balquhidder was the scene of some of the exploits of Rob Roy, who died there in 1734. His grave in the old kirkyard is marked by a stone ornamented with, rude carving, executed probably centuries before his time. Another ancient stone is said traditionally to cover the grave of Angus, the Columban missionary, who was the first to carry on Christian work in this part of the Highlands.

Return To Scottish Placename Anecdotes