Action at Earnside facts for kids
The Action at Earnside was a small fight during the Wars of Scottish Independence. It happened in September 1304. We don't know much about it, but it's important because it was the last known battle for William Wallace.
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What Was the Action at Earnside?
The Action at Earnside was a minor clash. It took place during the long wars between Scotland and England. This event is mainly remembered because of William Wallace. It was his final known military action.
Where Did the Fight Happen?
The exact place of this fight is a bit of a mystery. Old records call the location "Yrenside." Most people think this means "Earnside." This would be somewhere along the River Earn in Scotland.
However, some suggest "Yrenside" might mean "Ironside." This could point to Ironside Hill. That hill is located in the Sidlaw Hills. So, historians are still trying to figure out the true spot.
Clues from Old Records
English records mention the event. They talk about money paid for a horse. This horse was lost while fleeing from William Wallace. This happened near "Yrenside." Records also show that the Constable of Dundee was chasing Wallace. These small details help us piece together the story.
The Mystery of Black Earnside
There is a plaque in Fife, Scotland. It is about 4 km (2.5 miles) northeast of Newburgh. This plaque claims a battle happened there on June 12, 1298. It says William Wallace defeated the Earl of Pembroke at a place called "Black Earnside."
Why This Story Is Unlikely
Historians have looked into the "Black Earnside" story. They found some problems with it. For example, William Wallace was at the Battle of Falkirk just one month later. Also, there was no Earl of Pembroke at that time. The title was empty.
The name "Black Earnside" is not on official maps. The location is also not actually in Earnside. The River Earn flows into the River Tay about 7 km (4.5 miles) away. The National Record of the Historic Environment says there is "no good historical evidence for this battle." This means the plaque's story is likely not true.
William Wallace's Last Stand
The Action at Earnside is important for one main reason. It is the last time we know that William Wallace fought in a battle. After this, he was captured and his fight for Scottish freedom ended.
