Today in Reformation History

This is the 15th Century Brig O’ Doon (Bridge of Doon), located in Alloway, Ayrshire.

In 1666, Sir James Turner was sent with 140 soldiers to the south-west of Scotland to fine anyone who wouldn’t take the oath of allegiance to the king or speak against the covenants. Turner was greedy and fined people far more than he should have, and his soldiers were cruel. The final straw came when some of his soldiers threatened to roast alive an old farmer called Grier for not paying his fine. Four Covenanters overheard their threat and rescued Grier, then gathered about 150 more men and took Turner prisoner.

The event known as the Pentland Rising had begun.

The Covenanters began making their way through Dumfries & Galloway, Ayrshire, and Lanarkshire before heading towards Edinburgh, where they hoped to air their grievances. As they marched more people joined them.

On this day, the 21st Nov 1666, the Covenanters muster here at the Brig O’ Doon. Their number is estimated to be about 700. They have gained some valuable experienced military men, who help to organise them. James Wallace, who had served as a Colonel in Cromwell’s army during the English Civil War joined them along with some of his deputies, Major Learmouth, Captain Arnot, and Captain Paton of Meadowhead.

They quickly begin to organise the men, officers of foot and horse are appointed, and after a period of 2-3 hours they cross the Brig O’ Doon and strike eastward with a new found vigour. All the while Dalyell of the Binns leaves Glasgow and heads south in pursuit, with almost 3000 government troops.

They would eventually meet in battle on the side of the Pentland Hills on the 28th November.

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