Drumsagard Castle facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Drumsagard Castle |
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Cambuslang, South Lanarkshire, Scotland | |
Coordinates | 55°48′45″N 4°07′49″W / 55.8124°N 4.1302°W |
Site information | |
Condition | Ruined |
Site history | |
Built | c. 14th century |
Drumsagard Castle was an old castle near Cambuslang in South Lanarkshire, Scotland. It started as a simple wooden fort. Later, it was rebuilt using strong stone. This castle was the main home for the important family who ruled the area called Drumsagard.
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What Was Drumsagard Castle?
Drumsagard Castle began as a type of castle called a "motte and bailey." This was a common design for early castles.
Motte and Bailey Explained
A motte was a big mound of earth. A wooden tower or fort was built on top of it. This high spot made it easy to defend. The bailey was a large, flat area next to the motte. It was surrounded by a fence or wall. This area held buildings like homes and stables. It was a safe place for people and animals.
Who Owned Drumsagard Castle?
Many different powerful families owned Drumsagard Castle over the centuries. Each family played a part in its history.
Early Owners: Oliphant and de Moravia Families
In the 1200s, the Oliphant family owned Drumsagard. They were important in the area. Later, the castle passed to the de Moravia family. This happened when someone from the Oliphant family married into the de Moravia family.
The Douglas Family Takes Over
In 1370, the castle changed hands again. It went to the powerful Douglas family. This was through a marriage. Archibald Douglas, 3rd Earl of Douglas married Johanna. She was the daughter of Thomas Moray of Bothwell. This marriage brought Drumsagard into the Douglas family's control.
The Hamilton Family's Turn
Finally, in 1452, the Hamilton family was given the lands of Drumsagard. They became the new owners of the castle and its surrounding area.
The Castle's End
By 1796, Drumsagard Castle was already in ruins. It was no longer a strong fortress.
What Happened to the Stones?
The stones from the ruined castle were not wasted. They were used to build new structures. These stones helped construct the nearby Hallside Farms. This was a common practice in the past. People would reuse materials from old buildings.
Drumsagard Today
Today, you won't see the old castle standing tall. A modern housing area now surrounds the site. This development is even named after the castle, called Drumsagard Village. It reminds us of the castle that once stood there.