Going to the Source
To learn about seventeenth century Scotland, I first dug in on line. There was a lot there, but I was not able to learn all I wished. Powered by a growing curiosity, I set off to investigate the situation in person in Scotland in the fall of 2023.
My maternal line traces many of its roots to the Moncreiff clan. Lord Rhoderick and Lady Allison Moncreiff currently own and reside at Tullibole Castle, a site mentioned several times in the trial documents. The Lord and Lady graciously allowed me to rent the Gardener’s Cottage on the castle grounds for five weeks while pursuing answers to my many questions and locating various sites mentioned in the trial documents. My wonderful sister-in-law came along as chief scribe to record information when I interviewed folks.
My trusted friend and guide Scot AnSgeulaiche, himself a historical novelist living in Crieff, Scotland, took us to countless Scottish libraries, large and small. Together we also actively sleuthed places mentioned in the 1662 documents and fearlessly (well, Scot was fearless anyhow) approaching local residents, who turned out to be most obliging. Locals frequently invited us as perfect strangers into their homes for tea and dug out old maps and photos to help us in our search. We uncovered a wealth of information! In my next posts I will begin to recount some of our many adventures.
Your adventure sounds most delightful!
Loving your adventure, Susan and look forward to your book launch festivities.