Glencarnie facts for kids

Glencarnie was a special area in Strathspey, Scotland, like a local region ruled by a powerful lord. It covered the same area as the parish of Duthil.

Glencarnie was one of eight important areas in northern Scotland. These areas were first written about when William the Lion was king. They were ruled by families who were very loyal to the king.

What Was Glencarnie?

Glencarnie was a type of "provincial lordship." This meant it was a large piece of land that a powerful lord controlled. These lords often had military power too.

The other similar lordships included Badenoch, Lochaber, The Aird, Stratha'an, Abernethy, Strathbogie, and Garioch. All these areas were north of a mountain range called the Mounth.

Why Were These Lordships Created?

Historians believe these lordships might have been set up for a few reasons. One idea is that they helped the king keep control of the Province of Moray. This was especially important during a time of rebellions by a group called the MacWilliams between 1180 and 1230.

Another idea is that they were part of an older plan. This plan was to make sure the king had strong control over the valley of the Spey. This plan might have started after a battle in 1130, where Oengus of Moray was defeated at the Battle of Stracathro.

Who Ruled Glencarnie?

For more than 200 years, the Glencarnie lordship was connected to the family of the Earls of Strathearn. They were the main rulers of the area.

However, in 1392, the lordship changed hands. It was traded with Thomas Dunbar, 5th Earl of Moray. He received Glencarnie in exchange for other lands called Easter and Wester Fochabers.