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 LOOK WELL Clan Crest © Art Pewter Silver Ltd, East Kilbride, Scotland |
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The name Montgomery dates back to Norman times. The clan name first appears in Scotland, in the 12th century, in Eaglesham, Renfrewshire. The 7th Earl of Eaglesham distinguished himself at the battle of Otterburn, in 1388 by capturing the famous Sir Henry Percy, nicknamed ‘Hotspur’. As a result of this exploit, the 7th Earl was able to raise a sufficient ransom to build Polnoon Castle. This same earl acquired Eglinton and Ardrossan through marriage, thereby strengthening the clan. The 7th Earl’s grandson added to the clan’s status by becoming the 1st Lord Montgomerie in 1445 and by becoming a member of the King’s Council.In 1507 the 3rd Lord Montgomerie was made Earl of Eglinton and also acquired Brodick Castle on the Isle of Arran. The 2nd Earl was a devout catholic and fought with Mary, Queen of Scots. On her defeat the 2nd Earl was imprisoned for a time in Doune Castle, near Stirling. Later the family converted to Presbyterianism and the 6th Earl was imprisoned for his loyalty to Charles II. The Montgomeries were involved with the Cunninghams in one of the longest running feuds in Scotland. In the end the Government of the day had to intervene to bring the feud to an end, in the 16th century. Later Montgomeries are remembered for raising the 77 Foot Highlanders and for a celebrated tournament which took place at Eglinton Castle.The seat of the clan chiefs is in Skelmorlie, near Largs in Ayrshire. |