OS1/7/11/150

List of names as written Various modes of spelling Authorities for spelling Situation Description remarks
CLARDON HILL [Site of Battle A.D. 1196] [Continued from page 149]
including a considerable body from Ireland, defeated Harold Earl of Orkney and Caithness, Subdued all Caithness, and Severely punished the inhabitants for the cruelty exercised upon Bishop John. This battle is said to have been fought at the hill of Claredon, near Thurso. Sir John Sinclair of Ulbster several years ago, built on this hill an octogon tower, which in memory of that event, has been termed "Harold's Tower". Some affirm that this Harold, upon his Submission, was pardoned by the King for all the outrages he had committed, and reinstated in his possession of Caithness, as formerly enjoyed, but under very severe conditions; in Security for his performance of which, he gave his Son Torphin to the King as an hostage; and as these were not performed, the eyes of the young man were put out. This, however, is not so probable but Seems rather to apply to Harold's Successor, Earl John, by whose order or connivance the people burnt Bishop Adam in his Castle at Brawl, Halkirk, Six miles from Thurso, and who had afterwards been pardoned by King Alexander II. --
Extracts from MacKays History of the Clan MacKay

Continued entries/extra info

[page] 150
County of Caithness -- Parish of Thurso

[Note] -- Harold's Tower. This is called "Harold's Tomb" on the
Estate Plan but Mr Logan says that
"Harold's Tower" is correct.

  Transcribers who have contributed to this page.

Moira L- Moderator, LornaT

  Location information for this page.

  There are no linked mapsheets.