Sir Colin Og Campbell of Lochawe facts for kids

Sir Colin Og Campbell of Lochawe was an important early leader of Clan Campbell. He was also known by names like Colin the Young. He lived a long time ago, in the 1300s. Colin was an ancestor of the powerful Earls of Argyll. He ruled over lands called Lochawe and Ardscotnish from 1316 until he passed away around 1340.

Colin's Early Life

Colin was the oldest son of Sir Neil Campbell. His mother was likely Alyse Crawford. His stepmother was Mary Bruce, who was the sister of King Robert the Bruce. This made Colin related to the famous Scottish king. Some people believe that Colin was also related to William Wallace, a Scottish hero.

Serving the King

In 1316, after his father died, King Robert the Bruce gave Colin control of Lochawe and Ardscotnish. These lands were along the beautiful Loch Awe. In return, Colin promised to help the King. He agreed to provide soldiers for Robert's army. He also promised to give the King a special ship with 40 oars when needed.

Colin fought in Robert the Bruce's army during a war in Ireland. This war happened between 1315 and 1318. There is a story from this time about Colin. He once disobeyed the King's orders during a battle. Colin charged at some English archers on his own. He managed to defeat one archer, but another archer killed Colin's horse. King Robert himself had to step in. He rode over to Colin and gave him a light tap with a stick as a punishment. This showed that even important leaders had to follow the King's rules.

Later, when Edward Balliol tried to become king, Colin supported David II. During this struggle, members of the Campbell clan captured Dunoon Castle. It is thought that Colin might have led this capture. The Campbell family has held control of Dunoon Castle ever since, though it is mostly ruins today.

Colin's Family

Colin married a woman named Helena. They had several children together.

• Archibald (who passed away before 1394)
• Dougal (who passed away before 1342)
• John
• Alicia, who married Alan Lauder of Haltoun

Colin also had another son named Neil. Neil's mother was from the McIldowie family. The Campbells of Kenmore and Melfort are descended from Neil. The powerful Earls of Argyll are descended from Colin's son, Archibald.