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The Beheading Pit

from the Pacific Northwest Clan Gregor Society News - 1997

The ruins of Finlarig Castle are just a short walk from the Killin Hotel of Glen Dochart. Strolling along this beautiful path it is difficult to imagine that many a MacGregor was dragged here by Black Duncan Campbell’s men in the 16th Century to be tried and executed. While guests of the Campbells danced and dined in the Great Hall of the castle, they could view the trials taking place outside on Judgment Hill. Unfortunate MacGregors were “tried” and then sentenced to be hanged on the adjacent hill or beheaded in the pit - directly in view of all attending in the upper Banquet Hall.

In 1995 Dr. Gregor Hutcheson and Malcolm White, of the Clan Gregor Society, took part in excavating the site of the Beheading Pit and uncovered a heavy ring and chain still attached at one corner, believed to be where the victims were shackled during the execution. The manner of execution was determined at the trials based on the importance a MacGregor held in the Clan. Those of higher position were beheaded.

Ishbel McGregor, Clan Gregor Society Secretary, demonstrated the use of water divining rods to determine the powerful energy source emanating from the pit. She also showed how the rods pinpoint the site of original walls that once stood on the Judgment Hill. There was a very somber atmosphere surrounding these ruins.

Only partial walls now stand where the castle once loomed. The original gates to the Finlarig grounds, where visitors entered from the roadway, still remain. The Mausoleum exterior walls and two outer gravesites are all that remains of the prior Campbell owners.

While touring the Finlarig ruins one member of the Clan Gregor Society commented, “Isn’t it interesting that now all the Campbells of this place are gone and we MacGregors are here. MacGregor Despite Them!”