Niall mac Cailein facts for kids

Sir Niall mac Cailein (died 1316) was a brave Scottish nobleman and warrior. He was also known as Neil Campbell or Nigel Campbell. Niall spent his life serving King Robert I of Scotland, who was a very important king. Niall's Gaelic name means "Niall, Colin's son," because his father was Cailean Mór. Because of Niall's great service, the Campbell family became very important in Scotland.

Biography

Early Life and Service

Niall was the son of Cailean Mór. Some stories say he was the older son, but other records suggest his brother Domhnall might have been. Niall first appears in records in 1282. He was a witness to a royal document for Cambuskenneth Abbey.

For about 20 years, Niall's activities are not clear. However, a "Master Niall" worked for Robert the Bruce in the 1290s. This "Master Niall" was likely the same person. He was even called Mestre Neel Cambell in some official papers. This Master Niall came from the "county of Ayr," which fits with what we know about the Campbells back then. In 1293, Niall traveled to Norway. He delivered personal items to Robert's sister, Isabella Bruce, who was the Queen of Norway. In 1296, this Master Niall promised loyalty to King Edward I of England. He was given a safe trip back to Scotland in 1297.

Fighting for Scotland's Freedom

By 1302, Niall mac Cailein was still working for the English king. He stayed on the English side until 1306. This was when Robert the Bruce was officially supported by the English. Niall fought with Richard Óg de Burgh, 2nd Earl of Ulster's group. He also served in the English army that attacked Stirling Castle in 1305.

Niall and his brother Domhnall received rewards for their service. In 1302, Niall was given land in Cumberland. That same year, they became guardians for the daughters of Andrew de Crawford. He was a lord of several areas like Loudoun. However, Niall and Domhnall, like Robert the Bruce, started to think about fighting against the English.

When Robert the Bruce decided to become King of Scots in 1306, Niall and Domhnall were among his first supporters. Niall was there at Scone in March 1306 when Robert was crowned King. After King Robert lost battles at Battle of Methven and Battle of Dalrigh, Niall stayed loyal. The writer John Barbour later wrote about Niall's faithfulness. Niall continued to fight with King Robert's army. He fought against the English and also against the MacDougalls in western Scotland. Niall also helped King Robert by talking with the English king's representatives in 1309 and 1314.

Family and Legacy

Niall married Mary Bruce, who was King Robert de Bruce's sister. We don't know exactly when they got married. Niall and Mary had a son named Iain. King Robert gave them land that had been taken from David Strathbogie. This was probably so Iain would become an Earl later, which he did. This was part of King Robert's plan to give land and titles to his family members.

Niall had been married before Mary. His first wife was Alyse de Crawford. They had at least two sons, Sir Colin Og Campbell of Lochawe and Dubhghall. In 1315, King Robert gave land to Cailean (Colin). This land included Loch Awe and Ardscotnish. In return, Cailean had to provide a special boat with 40 oars for 40 days each year. This gift is seen as the true start of the Campbell family's power in the Lochawe area. In 1326, King Robert created a new job called sheriff of Argyll. He gave this job to Niall's son, Dougall.

Niall probably passed away in 1316. He left behind a strong reputation for being a hero and for being favored by the King. His children and future family members greatly benefited from his loyalty and service.