Our celebrations of Clan Kerr led us to a very knowledgeable man who is the curator of Ferniehirst Castle. We are delighted to share his story and the importance of his role in keeping the castle alive and preserving the history woven into it's roots.
I had the pleasure of meeting Bob Lawson and taken on a guided tour around Ferniehirst Castle near Jedburgh, not so far from the ScotlandShop HQ. I was captivated by his passion and knowledge of the Kerr family. Join me as I ask Bob a few questions.
You have been at Ferniehirst for many years, do you have a moment of your time here that stands out and is memorable?
Yes, the first time I attended the rideout to Ferniehirst, led by the Callant and his attendants, and accompanied by over 200 horsemen as they rode down the castle drive providing the highlight of the annual Jed Festival celebrating the Men of 'Jedhart', a fierce and brave band of warriors who gave their allegiance to the early Kerr's of Ferniehirst. Kerr's come from all over the world to attend this spectacle always held on the second Friday in July.
Being a Curator must be a challenging and varied role, but what is the best part of looking after Ferniehirst Castle?
My visitors. Particularly those with a special interest in Ferniehirst and its place in the history of the proud Scottish Border families who endured the long centuries of warfare. My researches are ongoing and my tours as factual and as entertaining as I can make them.
You have spent a lot of your time researching the castle and the history of the Kerr's. What was the most interesting thing you discovered?
Among many interesting discoveries I read the diaries of Jean de Beaugue, he was the Commander of the French forces who relieved the castle from English occupation in 1549. The diary describes how the castle looked in the mid 16th century with its twin bastle houses, curtain wall and sturdy tower. That day is referred to locally as ‘The Reprisal’ though few people have read this fascinating first hand account of the day.
While Ferniehirst has unique features, including its left handed staircase, what would you think is the most interesting aspect of the castle?
The old bastle we use today as a visitor centre. The building was converted into a chapel around 1632. Decorated with rare corner stones known as buckle quoin, designed by the Master Mason to Charles I, Sir James Murray; the sandstone building includes a large double door with decorative stonework featuring the ‘The Eggs of Creation’ symbolising a new beginning. The architecture suggests the chapel may well have been created for a visit by Charles I on his progress to Scotland in 1633.
You have shown thousands of people around this beautiful castle, what is your favourite feature?
My favourite part of the castle has to be the little library, the wonderful decorated wooden ceiling of this circular library is unique and may well have inspired Sir Walter Scott to make a similar space at Abbotsford House (another great place to visit and not found not far from Ferniehirst, near Melrose).
What is the most frequently asked question on your tour, and of course what is your response?
Is the castle haunted? Answer: Of course !
Unfortunately we didn't see any ghosts on our tour, perhaps next time we might see something paranormal.
Before starting at Ferniehirst as the Curator what knowledge of the Kerr's did you have?
I lived for a time at Hundalee, not far from Ferniehirst in a cottage belonging to the estates of Lord Lothian who is Kerr of Kerr. I knew Ferniehirst was one of the famous Kerr castles and I was aware of the important role they played in the history of the Scottish Borders, particularly during the 16th century.
While it is clear your knowledge of the Kerr Clan is extensive, do you belong to a specific Scottish Clan?
Yes I do and I am proud of my Scottish roots in Banffshire and Aberdeenshire. Being a Lawson means I can wear the MacLaren tartan.
Of course we want to know, are you a kilt or a trews man?
Definitely a kilt man; stylish, comfortable and practical.
What a great description of what it is like to wear a Kilt.
Other than Ferniehirst, which other Scottish castles would you recommend?
The list is endless but Edinburgh and Stirling are a must, if you are a Kerr then your next stop after Ferniehirst has to be the beautiful and enchanting Monteviot House where the Kerr story continues and then perhaps arrange to look at Newbattle House near Pathhead to complete the story.
We would like to thank Bob Lawson for sharing his passion and enthusiasm. If you want to visit Bob at Ferniehirst, the castle is open to the public the entire month of July and Bob's friendly face will be there to answer any Kerr questions. If you have been to the castle and met Bob we would love to hear from you.
