If you’re a Macfie planning a trip to Scotland, we’ve uncovered all the amazing places you just have to visit. These Scottish spots are filled with rich history that is deeply connected to our clan of the month. Whether you’re interested in archaeology, architecture, or famous historic sites, there’s something on this list for you. Let’s get into it!
The Macfie Stone
Let’s start off with one of the most beloved sites for members of Clan Macfie. Standing stones are popular throughout Scotland, even the ones that don’t transport you to the 18th century, and this stone is no exception. It is a memorial stone for the last Clan Chief, Malcolm, and was actually the very site of his murder following his support of the 1615 MacDonald-led uprising against the crown. This was an extremely significant, albeit sad, event in the history of the clan as it marked the breaking apart of the clan for several centuries. The stone is located near Balerominmore, in the southeastern corner of Colonsay and should definitely be at the top of your list!
Fort William
Next, we’re traveling over to quite a well known historical site. You might recognize Fort William as one of the most infamous prisons in Scotland. But what’s the connection to Clan Macfie? Well, Ewen Macphee who is known in history as the last Highland outlaw, was imprisoned there. Far from any sort of rebellious crime sprung about by Jacobitism, Macphee was actually arrested and sent to Fort William after getting caught stealing sheep from his neighbors. He ended up dying in the prison while awaiting trial, so this is certainly a somewhat spooky Macfie location that those of you who are interested in both Macfie and Jacobite history will enjoy!
Paisley Abbey
Let’s now move on to something a bit different—Paisley Abbey located in Paisley, Renfrewshire. Dr. George McPhee was appointed as the Director of Music at Paisley Abbey in 1963, which is where this location gets it’s Macfie connection. It was Dr. McPhee’s influence that has helped the Abbey and its choir become a renowned institution for music. The Abbey has quite a long history, though. Long before Dr. McPhee, Paisley Abbey was founded in the mid 12th century by Walter FitzAlan, who was an impressive knight of Breton origin and who had been brought to Scotland by King David I. Following his arrival, he was made the first High Steward of Scotland. Eventually, a charter was signed at Fotheringhay, Northamptonshire for the founding of a Cluniac monastery on the land he owned in Renfrewshire, which marks the origin of Paisley Abbey. You can visit the Abbey today and perhaps even see Dr. McPhee as the organist.
Dùn Eibhinn and the Macfie Monument
Next up is Dùn Eibhinn, a hillfort located in Colonsay, the ancestral home of Clan Macfie. The original fort was believed to have been built as a royal Viking residence in the early 11th century. Clan Macfie came to own it in the early part of the 13th century and held the fort until 1623, when Malcolm, Chief of Clan Macfie, was killed due to his involvement in the uprising we mentioned earlier. Unfortunately, after this time, the fort was abandoned and only ruins remain today.
That is, besides the Macfie Monument which marks this location’s long history with our featured clan. This is an excellent place for those interested in Highland history and it’s a great photo-op for all Macfies!
Dunadd
Finally, we have Dunadd, an early medieval fort located in Argyll and Bute. The name Dunadd comes from the Gaelic Dún Ad, which translates to fort on the (River) Add. This fort’s claim to fame is that it is thought to be the capital of the ancient kingdom of Dál Riata, whose king was AlpÃn mac Echdach. AlpÃn was also the father of the first King of Scots and Clan Macfie happens to be one of the seven members of Siol Alpin, a family of seven Scottish clans that claim to be descended from AlpÃn. Dunadd is an absolutely wonderful place to visit if you’re interested in ancient Scottish history. This site has been excavated, with lots of interesting archaeological finds produced from these excavations. In addition, Dunadd is considered an Ancient Monument under the care of Historic Scotland! You can visit Dunadd at any time during the year and there’s no charge for admission, so we’re sure that you’ll want to add this spot to your Macfie itinerary!
We hope you've enjoyed this list of incredible Macfie places! After you've made your visit to any of these spots, don't forget to send us your pics and stories.
