The End of the Lordship of the Isles

by | May 13, 2025 | The 15th Century

Throughout the 14th and 15th centuries, the Stewart kings of Scotland had sought to quell the independent power of the Lordship of the Isles.  This was effectively achieved in 1493 when John Macdonald, 4th Lord of the Isles, was forfeited and his lands annexed.  The...

The Last of the Macleods

by | May 13, 2025 | The 15th Century

Roderick Macleod X was chief of the Lewis Macleods from 1539 until 1595.  His was a long and turbulent life – he had feuded with neighbouring interests across the Minch, with his own sons and, at times, with the Scottish Crown.  He had married three times and produced...

Torquil VIII

by | May 13, 2025 | The 15th Century

Torquil succeeded his father Roderick as clan chief in 1498.  He went on to support the rebellion of Donald Dubh, claimant to the Lordship of the Isles, against the Crown.  Torquil was removed from his position following the defeat of the clan at the hands of a royal...

Margaret Mackinnon

by | May 13, 2025 | The 15th Century

Margaret Mackinnon was the daughter of Roderick Macleod she was married to Lachlan Mackinnon. Their son John became the last abbot of Iona. There is an intricately carved grave slab which commemorates her and which has the following inscription : ‘Hic jacet Margareta...

Roderick Macleod

by | May 12, 2025 | The 15th Century

7th chief of Macleod​ and a great-grandson of Torquil IV, held Lewis during the latter part of the 15th century.  He died in 1498 and an effigy on a carved grave slab commemorates him. He is conventionally depicted as a warrior, with broadsword and spear, and dressed...
Verified by MonsterInsights