Auchterhouse Castle facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Auchterhouse Castle |
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Auchterhouse Castle, also known as The Old Manor House
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 Auchterhouse Castle
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| Coordinates | 56°31′22″N 3°05′20″W / 56.522857°N 3.088781°W |
| Site history | |
| Built | 13th century |
Auchterhouse Castle is a historic castle in Scotland, built around the 1200s. It is located northwest of Dundee, in an area known as Angus. This ancient site has a rich history, connected to important Scottish figures and events.
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A Glimpse into Auchterhouse Castle's Past
Auchterhouse Castle was originally a strong fortress. It had thick walls, tall towers, and a central building called a keep. A keep was the main, strongest part of a castle, often used as a home or a final defense point.
Who Owned Auchterhouse Castle?
For a long time, the Ramsay family might have owned Auchterhouse Castle. They were important people in Angus. They held the title of "hereditary Sheriffs." This meant the role of Sheriff, which was like a local governor or law enforcer, was passed down through their family for generations.
Famous Visitors to the Castle
Auchterhouse Castle has hosted some very famous people from Scottish history.
Sir William Wallace's Visit
It is said that the legendary Scottish hero, Sir William Wallace, once stayed at the castle. Wallace was a key leader during the Wars of Scottish Independence. One of the castle's towers was even named in his honor. This shows how important his connection to the castle was.
King Edward I's Stay
Another famous visitor was King Edward I of England. He was also known as "Longshanks." King Edward I spent a night at Auchterhouse Castle on July 20, 1303. This was during a time when England and Scotland were often at war.
Later Owners of the Castle
Much later, the castle came into the hands of James Erskine, 7th Earl of Buchan. He was a Scottish nobleman. It is believed that he might have built a new tower house at the castle during the 1600s. This would have added to or changed the original medieval structure.
See Also
