CLICK HERE TO ADD YOUR EVENT

Important Jacobite Historical Discovery Made at Bannockburn House

In the halls of Bannockburn House a team of dedicated volunteers have uncovered a rare and fascinating piece of history that could have altered the story of the nation.

Important Jacobite Historical Discovery Made at Bannockburn House

Article Source: Stirling Council
Last Updated: 23 July 2024 9:55

Musket Ball Hole Discovered: Did Bonnie Prince Charlie Narrowly Escape Assassination in Historic Bannockburn House?

In the halls of Bannockburn House, a Grade A listed historic Scottish landmark, a team of dedicated volunteers have uncovered a rare and fascinating piece of history that could have altered the story of the nation.

Amidst the delicate plaster work and ancient wooden panelling, a musket ball hole has been discovered - a grim reminder of a previously undocumented assassination attempt of the legendary Bonnie Prince Charlie during the tumultuous Jacobite Rising of 1745.

The announcement comes today (23 July), the 279th anniversary of Bonnie Prince Charlie’s arrival on Scottish soil to try to regain the thrones of England, Scotland and Ireland on behalf of his father, James Stuart.

But in January 1746, Prince Charles Edward Stuart, much better known as Bonnie Prince Charlie, took ill and convalesced at Bannockburn House. The large bedroom where he stayed, situated on the first floor’s west wing, is adorned with a delicate plaster frieze of mermaids and has multiple layers of ancient wooden panelling, some of which are hand hewn and painted. The Prince stayed at Bannockburn House at the behest of Sir Hugh Paterson, 3rd Baronet of Bannockburn, when the Jacobite army laid siege of Stirling Castle.

During his time there, the Prince also met Sir Hugh’s niece, Clementina Walkinshaw, who nursed him back to health. A romance bloomed between the pair which carried on for many years after the Rising and they had a daughter, Charlotte, Duchess of Albany.

It was also during this time, according to the house’s oral traditions, that an assassin fired a shot through the bedroom window, missing Bonnie Prince Charlie as he slept and lodged itself in the wall at the head of the bed. For centuries, the existence of this musket ball hole remained a tantalising legend passed down through the generations, its whereabouts shrouded in mystery, until now.

In April this year, the hole was found under a secret panel by volunteer researchers on the House’s History Team. The team was aided by leading Jacobite historian Professor Murray Pittock of the University of Glasgow, and Stirling Council Archaeologist, Dr Murray Cook, who both confirmed the authenticity of the find.

The Trust volunteers had been searching for the hole but had nothing to go on. Then volunteers arranged a visit with an 89-year-old Edinburgh resident, whose aunt was housekeeper for the last owner in residence, who provided the crucial lead. He told History Team Lead, Anne Monaghan and fellow history volunteer Anna Morrison that his aunt had taken great pride in looking after the bullet hole. As soon as they arrived back in Stirling, they contacted Catherine Bradley, lead volunteer researcher for the charity, who met them the next day to investigate the room.

“Anne and I noticed what appeared to be the edge of an inset panel in the wall when cleaning out the room furniture recently for conservation. I suspected that is where it may have been. It is across from a window, now hidden by paneling later put in the room sometime in the 1880s. I just didn’t have the evidence to look until now. It was an exciting moment as I opened it. I carefully lifted the panel and saw the splintered wood and I knew we’d found something very special,” Catherine said. She continued: “Anne asked me what I saw, and I remember giggling and saying, wonderful things! I knew we needed to be very careful not to damage it, so we documented it, covered it back up, and called in the cavalry.”

The volunteers quickly contacted Professor Pittock and Dr Cook for help.

Dr Cook said: “I have visited the bedroom many times over the years and always tried to imagine the Prince and the resulting confusion from the musket fire and sounds of smashing glass alerting everyone to the assassin. However, to see the damage and to touch the spot sent a thrill down my spine - an incredible tangible experience and worth visiting Bannockburn House for this alone.”

Leading historian Professor Pittock, author of Culloden, The Myth of the Jacobite Clans, Jacobitism and many other works, said: “I am pleased to endorse that Bannockburn House Trust has almost certainly discovered forensic evidence of an assassination attempt on Prince Charles in 1746. This is critically important not only for our understanding of the Rising but also for the role the attack may have played in intensifying the relationship between Charles and Clementina Walkinshaw, which led to the birth of his only child.”

Stirling Council Leader, Cllr Chris Kane said: “In the year of Stirling’s 900th anniversary celebrations, it’s remarkable that we’re still unearthing new discoveries about the area’s rich past – but this one is particularly exciting. This astonishing find at Bannockburn House sheds new light on the story of Bonnie Prince Charlie and one of the most tumultuous episodes in Scottish and British history.

“We are proud that Stirling is at the heart of the nation’s history which is showcased at our wide range of world-class attractions and impressive built heritage like Bannockburn House. It’s why people from all across the world are drawn into the area every year and we look forward to welcoming more visitors during our 900th birthday celebrations.”


“After years of hearing the story, it’s been fantastic to finally verify the existence of the musket ball hole,” Anne Monaghan, History Team Lead said.

But this remarkable find is now under threat from severe water ingress caused by the deterioration of the building. The Bannockburn House Trust, who look after the property, is urgently seeking funding to preserve this invaluable piece of Scotland’s past.

The water ingress is from a deteriorating 17th century roof which features hand-hewn wooden slate pegs and carvings on the roof beams. The spectacular ornate plasterwork ceilings are also at risk. Urgent restoration is needed to prevent further damage to the important piece of Scotland’s history. The Trust is launching a major fundraising campaign to proceed with the work.

"Our goal is to restore the building and protect the musket ball hole and other important historical features of Bannockburn House," said Amanda Monaghan, spokesperson and operations manager for the charity. "This discovery is a tangible link to a significant event in our history, and it's crucial that we act now to preserve it for future generations."

The restoration project is estimated to cost millions of pounds, as the building needs to be carefully studied, conserved, and restored to its original condition. The charity also has daily running costs and upkeep. It is launching fundraising bids to raise the necessary aid and is appealing to history enthusiasts, residents, and supporters of heritage preservation to contribute through the donate button on their webpage

"We invite everyone to join us in this important effort," added Ms Monaghan. "By restoring the house, we can safeguard this fascinating piece of history and ensure Bannockburn House continues to inspire and educate."

Image: Left to right: Anne Monaghan, leader of the Bannockburn House History Team with Amanda Monaghan, Operations Manager, Bannockburn House in front of the bullet hole.

Sponsored Links

Latest Stirling News

Marstons is going marmalade mad in celebration of Paddington in Peru

Marstons is going marmalade mad in celebration of Paddington in Peru

To celebrate the Home Release of Paddington in Peru, Marston's has created a limited-edition marmalade-inspired children's menu, which will be available in over 250 Marston's pubs nationwide!

READ MORE
Scots charity calls on young Scottish poets for national campaign

Scots charity calls on young Scottish poets for national campaign

Communities across Scotland are being invited to make a visible show of support for LGBTQ+ young people this Purple Friday.

READ MORE
From Barra to Buenos Aires: Worldwide Gaelic celebration just around the corner

From Barra to Buenos Aires: Worldwide Gaelic celebration just around the corner

The Gaelic language is set to be celebrated around the world in less than two weeks' time as Seachdain na Gàidhlig, World Gaelic Week, gets set to return from 24th February - 2nd March.

READ MORE
Stirling to Host Sizzling Showcase of Food, Drink and Tourism

Stirling to Host Sizzling Showcase of Food, Drink and Tourism

Stirling is turning up the heat this March with a dynamic line up of events designed to inspire, connect and showcase the region’s food, drink and tourism industry.

READ MORE
Multi level car park reopens at Thistles following refurbishment

Multi level car park reopens at Thistles following refurbishment

Thistles, Stirling, today announces the reopening of its car park following an extensive £3.5 million investment as part of ongoing improvement plans.

READ MORE
Valentines Share The Love Campaign Launched in Stirling

Valentines Share The Love Campaign Launched in Stirling

Stirling residents are being invited to share their support for the city’s business community this month.

READ MORE
Creative organisations invited to take part in special Stirling 900 cultural celebration

Creative organisations invited to take part in special Stirling 900 cultural celebration

Creative organisations are being invited to take part in a special cultural night on Friday 28 March as part of Stirling’s 900th anniversary finale celebrations.

READ MORE
Hostelling Scotland launches appeal for Gen Z board members to help put the youth back into hostelling

Hostelling Scotland launches appeal for Gen Z board members to help put the youth back into hostelling

THE organisation behind one of Scotland's most historic travel traditions is calling for young people to join its board as it seeks to capitalise on a surge in interest amongst Gen Z travellers.

READ MORE
The Scottish Caravan, Motorhome and Holiday Home Show returns to Glasgow

The Scottish Caravan, Motorhome and Holiday Home Show returns to Glasgow

Here's everything you need to know about the biggest show of its kind in Scotland!

READ MORE
Stellar line up of leaders unite to influence a better future of work in Scotland

Stellar line up of leaders unite to influence a better future of work in Scotland

Award winning authors, a former SAS soldier, along with HR leaders from Scotland’s top employers are among the speakers for the CIPD Scotland Annual Conference, 2025.

READ MORE
Brand new experience to celebrate Mothers Day at Dobbies

Brand new experience to celebrate Mothers Day at Dobbies

This March, Dobbies Garden Centres is offering a new hands-on Mother's Day experience, combining a luxury Afternoon Tea with a seasonal planting workshop.

READ MORE
Stirling Castle set to host a belated Burns Night celebration

Stirling Castle set to host a belated Burns Night celebration

On Saturday 8 February, Stirling Castle will be hosting a belated Burns an' a' that, a celebration of the famous Scottish bard, Robert Burns.

READ MORE
 New exhibition to celebrate the literary history of Stirling

New exhibition to celebrate the literary history of Stirling

Stirling’s remarkable literary history is being celebrated at a new exhibition to mark the city’s 900th anniversary.

READ MORE
Free and great value half term activities at Dobbies

Free and great value half term activities at Dobbies

Dobbies Garden Centres is offering great value entertainment for families this February half term.

READ MORE
itison Us charity call out

itison Us charity call out

itison Us have thousands of free respite experiences available for small Scottish charities.

READ MORE
Pavilion Festival Unveils 2025 Lineup with James, Ewan McVicar, Annie Mac, Ben Hemsley, Happy Mondays and more

Pavilion Festival Unveils 2025 Lineup with James, Ewan McVicar, Annie Mac, Ben Hemsley, Happy Mondays and more

Pavilion Festival has today announced the huge lineup for its third year on Ayr Beach with James, Annie Mac, Happy Mondays, Ewan McVicar, Ben Hemsley and more playing live!

READ MORE
Warning of rogue traders following Storm Eowyn

Warning of rogue traders following Storm Eowyn

Stirling Council is urging residents and businesses to be wary of rogue traders looking to take advantage of the damage to property caused by Storm Eowyn.

READ MORE
Trust launches storm appeal following extensive damage across Scotland

Trust launches storm appeal following extensive damage across Scotland

The National Trust for Scotland has launched an appeal to support emergency work needed to deal with the devastating destruction caused by Storm Éowyn.

READ MORE
Scottish Caravan, Motorhome and Holiday Home Show launches a mythical map of Scotland with lead Scottish tour company

Scottish Caravan, Motorhome and Holiday Home Show launches a mythical map of Scotland with lead Scottish tour company

The biggest show of its kind in Scotland has partnered with Andy The Highlander to create an Enchanted Map of Scotland's most enchanted locations.

READ MORE
Scottish hospitality group serves up new digital loyalty scheme to cut customer bills

Scottish hospitality group serves up new digital loyalty scheme to cut customer bills

Scottish hospitality group, Signature, has launched an innovative new digital loyalty scheme to help cost-conscious customers save money dining out.

READ MORE
Scottish Golf events go LIVE for 2025

Scottish Golf events go LIVE for 2025

Top amateurs and handicap golfers can now sign up for one or more of Scottish Golf's 33 championships in a packed 2025 schedule.

READ MORE
Live Music Now Scotland announces unparalleled new award

Live Music Now Scotland announces unparalleled new award

Live Music Now Scotland is delighted to announce a funding award of £150,000 from Elizabeth Lornie's Charitable Trust.

READ MORE
Pavilion Festival returns to Ayr Beach with Saturday lineup curated by Ewan McVicar

Pavilion Festival returns to Ayr Beach with Saturday lineup curated by Ewan McVicar

Pavilion Festival Presents: Ewan McVicar B2B Ben Hemsley, special guest Annie Mac, along with DJ Seinfeld, Sally C, Robert Hood (Floorplan) and more on Saturday 3rd May!

READ MORE
BBC Debate Night returns for 2025

BBC Debate Night returns for 2025

BBC Scotland's topical TV programme Debate Night returns this month and they are searching for people to be part of the big studio audience.

READ MORE
Huge 90s pop dance stars heading to Royal Highland Centre for Forth 50 Live!

Huge 90s pop dance stars heading to Royal Highland Centre for Forth 50 Live!

Forth 1 have today announced details of Forth 50 - Live!, a huge celebration to mark the station's 50th birthday with an epic line up of 90s pop dance acts at The Royal Highland Centre.

READ MORE
Penguin Trail in Stirling hailed a success

Penguin Trail in Stirling hailed a success

Stirling’s first Penguin Trail has been hailed a success after increasing footfall around the city and offering festive fun for shoppers.

READ MORE
Celebrate Chinese New Year with a roster of blockbusters at Vue venues in Scotland

Celebrate Chinese New Year with a roster of blockbusters at Vue venues in Scotland

Vue venues across Scotland will be showcasing a mixture of the latest big screen blockbusters from China as well as an anniversary screening of Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon.

READ MORE
Dobbies free February workshops

Dobbies free February workshops

Dobbies Garden Centres’ popular Little Seedlings Club and Grow How workshops return for February, inviting gardeners and families to get hands-on at these free sessions.

READ MORE
Pawsome New Year Resolutions remove over 39 million pieces of litter

Pawsome New Year Resolutions remove over 39 million pieces of litter

Dog owners making an environmental New Year Resolution have boosted the ranks of the “PAWS ON PLASTIC’ charity to 27,000.

READ MORE
Border Caravans Announced as Headline Sponsor of the Scottish Caravan, Motorhome and Holiday Home Show

Border Caravans Announced as Headline Sponsor of the Scottish Caravan, Motorhome and Holiday Home Show

The Scottish Caravan, Motorhome and Holiday Home Show is delighted to announce Border Caravans as the new headline sponsor for this year's event.

READ MORE

Sponsored Links

ATG

Sponsored Links

ATG

Popular Events

The Big County Quiz - Youth Section Fundraising Night
Join Stirling County RFC for our first Big County Quiz Night to raise funds for the 2025 Youth Section Rugby Tours!
Amy Laurenson
Don't miss Amy Laurenson, BBC Radio Scotland Young Traditional Musician of the Year 2023, when she plays the Tolbooth Stirling on Thursday 20th March!
Books, Bones and Beasties
Become a Bone Detective and help put the animals back together and learning about the amazing animals that live in Mugdock along the way!
World War 2 in The Forth Valley
Gartmore and its neighbouring villages played an all-but-forgotten, top-secret role in World War II. This talk will unveil this astonishing story as seen through the eyes of those who lived it!
Iain McMurtie Live @ The Crook Bar
Join us for a evening of live music with local musician Iain McMurtie, playing all the classic bar tunes you can sing along to!

Popular Listings

Macrobert Arts Centre Stirling Castle The Albert Halls Stirling The National Wallace Monument Tolbooth Stirling