Donnchadh of Argyll facts for kids

Donnchadh of Argyll (also known as Duncan, son of Dougall) was an important Scottish noble. He lived in the late 1100s and early 1200s. Donnchadh was the son of Dubhghall mac Somhairle. His grandfather was Somhairle mac Gille Bhrighde.

Donnchadh was the first of the MacDougall lords of Argyll to use the title de Argadia. This means "of Argyll." He is seen as the founder of the powerful MacDougall family in Argyll. Donnchadh was also famous for building things. He built Ardchattan Priory and Dunstaffnage Castle.

Donnchadh's Life and Rule

Early Life and First Records

Donnchadh was likely born in the mid-1100s. We don't know his exact birth date. He first appears in historical records in 1175. He traveled with his father and brother, Amhlaibh. They went on a pilgrimage to St Cuthbert in Durham. This journey is recorded in a book called the Liber Vitae.

Building the Lordship of Argyll

During Donnchadh's time, many conflicts in western Scotland were ending. These wars had been going on since his grandfather Somerled's time. Ruaidhrí mac Raghnaill, another powerful lord, made peace with his rivals.

Around 1221 and 1222, King Alexander II of Scotland led trips into Argyll. These trips helped Donnchadh become recognized as the Lord of Lorne. Donnchadh strongly supported the Scottish king. He stood with the king against other powerful lords like Ruaidhrí mac Raghnaill.

King Alexander II's actions helped Donnchadh gain control over all of Argyll. Around 1225, Donnchadh was called "Donnchadh de Argadia" in a document. This is the first time his family used "of Argyll" as part of their name. This name showed their high status among Scottish nobles.

In 1229, the king of the Isle of Man was killed. This led to a Norwegian expedition in 1230. The Norwegians attacked some areas, but Donnchadh kept his lands in Argyll.

When Did Donnchadh Die?

Donnchadh was growing old after these events. His son, Eóghan, began to take a more active role. Donnchadh's exact death date is not known for sure. Some historians think he might be the "Mac Somhairle" who died in Ireland in 1247. However, other historians believe this refers to a different person.

Donnchadh was last mentioned in Scottish records in 1244. His name was on a letter sent to the Pope by King Alexander II. By 1249, his son Eóghan was fully in charge. This suggests Donnchadh had likely passed away by then.

Donnchadh's Lasting Impact

Dunstaffnage Castle, one of Donnchadh's most famous buildings.

Donnchadh was a great builder and supporter of religious groups. Around 1230, he founded Ardchattan Priory. This was a monastery for Valliscaulian monks near Loch Etive. This new religious order was popular during King Alexander II's reign.

Donnchadh is also remembered for his castles. He built Dunstaffnage Castle. This castle became the main home for the MacDougall lords of Argyll. He might also have built the large castle at Aros on the Isle of Mull.

Donnchadh had several children. His most important child was his son Eóghan. Eóghan took over his father's lordship.