The Skene Family Curse: Myth or Reality?

The Skene family, originating from Aberdeenshire, Scotland, has been a notable name since medieval times. The family’s roots can be traced back to the 12th century, making them one of Scotland’s oldest clans. Their name is said to come from the Gaelic word ‘Sgian,’ meaning knife or dagger, a reference to their ancestor’s act of valor which earned him lands from the king. This act, as the legend goes, involved killing a wolf that was terrorizing the locals. The family’s coat of arms, featuring three dagger heads, commemorates this event.

The Rise of the Skene Clan

The Skenes enjoyed a prominent status in Scottish society. They were known for their bravery in battles and their influential positions in politics. Their estate, centered around the Loch of Skene and the House of Skene, was a symbol of their wealth and power. Over the centuries, they acquired extensive lands and properties, and their alliances through marriage further strengthened their influence.

The Turning Point

The family’s fortunes, however, began to change, and this is where the story of the curse comes into play. It is said that the curse was pronounced in the late 17th century by the father of Mary Forbes, who was forced to marry a Skene laird after he had wronged her. In his anguish, Mary’s father allegedly cursed the Skene family, proclaiming that their lineage would end and their name would be forgotten.

The Decline of the Skenes

What followed in the next centuries was a series of misfortunes that befell the Skene family. The most striking aspect of their decline was the rapid extinction of the male line. Tragedies seemed to follow one after another – untimely deaths, financial troubles, and family disputes began to plague the Skenes.

In the 18th and 19th centuries, several members of the family died unexpectedly. George Skene of that ilk, who lived a reputedly dissolute life, saw the demise of many of his relatives in quick succession. His brother James, a known sympathizer of the Jacobite cause, was hanged in 1680.

The last of the Skenes, Alexander, who was born deaf and dumb and later nearly blind, was the final male heir. With his death in 1827, the direct male line of the Skene family came to an end.

The Curse: Coincidence or Reality?

The notion of a family curse, while intriguing, raises the question of whether the series of unfortunate events can be attributed to a curse or mere coincidence. The idea of a curse adds a layer of mystical explanation to what could otherwise be seen as a series of unfortunate events that many families, noble or not, might experience over time.

In the case of the Skene family, their decline can also be viewed through the lens of socio-economic changes in Scotland during the 17th and 18th centuries. The political landscape was shifting, and many noble families found themselves on the wrong side of history, especially those who were sympathetic to the Jacobite cause. Financial mismanagement and personal tragedies, such as Alexander Skene’s disabilities, could also have contributed to their downfall.

The Legacy of the Skene Family

Despite the apparent end of the family line, the legacy of the Skene family is still evident. The Loch of Skene and the House of Skene stand as historical testaments to their once-great status. The family’s contributions to Scottish history, their military prowess, and their involvement in the politics of the day are significant chapters in Scotland’s story.

The artifacts and documents left behind by the Skenes offer a glimpse into their lives and times. These heirlooms, preserved in various collections, continue to be a subject of interest for historians and enthusiasts of Scottish history.

Conclusion

The story of the Skene family, with its blend of historical facts and mythical elements, offers a fascinating glimpse into Scotland’s past. The tale of their curse, whether real or imagined, adds a layer of intrigue to their already rich history. While it’s tempting to attribute the family’s misfortunes to a supernatural curse, it’s more likely a combination of historical circumstances, personal tragedies, and perhaps a bit of bad luck.

Adapted from: Skene, W. F. (1887). Memorials of the family of Skene of Skene, from the family papers, with other illustrative documents. Aberdeen: New Spalding Club.