The Massacre of the Morrisons in Dun Carloway

The summer of 1601 marked a significant event in the annals of Scottish clan history. It was then that the Macaulays, led by their chief Donald Cam, left their lands to venture to the Flannan Isles, leaving their cattle unguarded. The Morrisons of Ness saw this as an opportunity and drove away the Macaulays’ cows. Upon their return, the Macaulays immediately set out to reclaim their cattle. Eventually, they discovered that the Morrisons were hiding in the strong fortress of Dun Carloway.

The Macaulays, determined to reclaim their cattle and seek revenge against the Morrisons, approached the fortress. Big Smith was tasked with boiling the beef, while Donald Cam went ahead to kill the sentry and enter the fortress. Once inside, Donald Cam ordered his men to fill the fortress with heather and set it on fire, suffocating and killing all the Morrisons within. The Macaulays then demolished the ancient fortress, which was said to have been built in the fourth century by a giant named Darg mac Nu-aran.

The events of the massacre at Dun Carloway highlight the intense tensions that existed between rival clans in Scotland. The willingness of the Macaulays to take such drastic measures to reclaim their cattle and seek revenge against the Morrisons is a testament to the deep-seated animosity that existed between the two clans. This act of violence not only led to a series of retaliatory attacks and counterattacks but also escalated the conflict between the two clans, leading to further bloodshed and loss of life.

Despite its tragic history, the massacre at Dun Carloway remains an important part of Scotland’s rich cultural heritage. It serves as a reminder of the violence and aggression that existed between rival clans, and the lengths to which some were willing to go to protect their lands and honor. Today, the remains of Dun Carloway serve as a testament to this turbulent and violent history, a history that is filled with tales of bravery, honor, and sacrifice.