Henderson Stone facts for kids

Henderson Stone, Glencoe

The Henderson Stone (called Clach Eanruig in Scottish Gaelic) is a large granite boulder. You can find it in a field in the beautiful Glencoe area of Scotland. The name Clach Eanruig can mean either Henderson Stone or Henry's Stone. This special stone is famous for its connection to a very important event in Scottish history.

A Stone with a Secret: The Glencoe Massacre Legend

The Henderson Stone is part of many old stories passed down through generations. These stories are about a warning given before the terrible Massacre of Glencoe in 1692. The massacre was a sad event where many members of the MacDonald clan were killed.

The Warning Story

The legend says that soldiers from the Campbell clan were staying with the MacDonalds for ten days. One soldier knew that an order had been given to kill the MacDonalds very early the next morning. He wanted to warn his host, but he couldn't speak directly about the danger.

So, while walking with a local MacDonald, the soldier spoke to the stone instead. He said something like: "Great stone in the Glen, though you have every right to be there, if you knew what was to happen tonight you would not stay there on any account."

The local person understood this secret message. They managed to escape the massacre. However, they could not warn many other people in time.

Why the Warning Was Given

Henderson Stone, Glencoe. Photo: Jason Henderson

Historians believe these stories show that some soldiers felt bad about their orders. They were Highlanders too, and hospitality was very important to them. Killing people who had welcomed them into their homes was seen as a terrible act.

Even though they had to follow orders, some soldiers tried to warn the MacDonalds. Others might have simply looked away or avoided killing anyone during the massacre. These stories remind us that not everyone agreed with the terrible events that happened that night.

The Stone Today

Carnach area of Glen Coe as shown on an 1870 map.

A special sign has been placed at the Henderson Stone since at least 1870. People sometimes gather at the stone to remember the events of the Glencoe Massacre. It stands as a quiet reminder of a dramatic moment in Scottish history.