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The Rattrays are said to have acquired
their lands from Malcolm Canmore in the 11thC. This is another Perthshire
case of the surname being taken from the place.
Sir Thomas of Rattray was knighted
by Alexander III, married in 1253 and paid homage to Edward I of England
(as did many Scottish nobles) in 1296.
The Rattrays were then based at Rattray
Castle, now ruined.
Patrick Rattray was driven from Rattray
Castle in 1516 by the Earl of Atholl. Through as series of abductions and
forced marriages, Atholl claimed more and more Rattray land. Patrick moved
to Craighall Castle which is perched on a cliff 60m above the River Ericht
(near Blairgowrie). In 1533, Atholl finally
had Patrick Rattray murdered.
Thomas rattray was Protestant Bishop
of Dunkeld in 1627.
The Rattrays fought for Charles I and
in 1650 Craighall Castle was beseiged. After the Restoration of the monarchy,
the Rattray position was consolidated and the lands previously 'stolen' by
Atholl were returned.
In 1745 the Rattrays did not send forces
to join Bonnie Prince Charlie, however the laird's brother John was doctor
to the Jacobites.
Craighall is now a 19thC mansion house
with the original tower house incorporated. |
