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This article appeared in "Linlithgow Today" 29/08/03 For a transcript of the article see below. |
Article by Iain Russell
A LINLITHGOW historian is looking for help
in tracking down the facts behind a neglected piece of local history.
Jon Cooper, of Deanburn Park, is researching the battle of Linlithgow Bridge
with the aim of bringing more recognition to the event.
The battle was fought on September 4, 1526, between the supporters of the
dowager Queen Margaret under the Earl of Lennox and the allies of the
Douglases. Jon believes more than 12,000 men fought along the banks of the
Avon.
Jon has been researching the battle for the last eight months after being
asked by the Gaddgedlar Historical Re-enactment Society, of which he is a
member, to present a show at Historic Scotland's Jousting event held in May
this year at the Palace.
He said: "I was amazed at how many local people knew nothing of the
battle despite being here all their lives. We had such a good reaction that I
decided to research some more and, ultimately, I would like to publish a book
on the subject."
Jon added: "The battle has been lost to history because it was a civil
war between feuding lords and not a major engagement against the English. It's
a fantastic story of intrigue, treachery, murder and revenge.
Troops
''There are no good guys or bad guys and
ironically many local families found themselves facing neighbours on the other
side of the river."
It is believed Lennox took his men along the banks of the Avon after he was
met with advancing Douglas troops at the Brig.
He and his men crossed at a point near Manuel convent. The ensuing battle took
place on marshland between there, Avontoun and Kettilstoun.
Jon added that on a more contemporary note, the battle accounts for many of
the road names around Linlithgow, such as Lennox Gardens, Stewart Avenue,
Moray Place and Hamilton and Douglas Avenues — names of major players in the
battle. There is also a cairn at the roundabout at Linlithgow Sports Centre
which reputedly marks the place where Lennox was killed.
Jon now hopes that by raising the battle's profile it will add another
location for tourists to visit and bring more trade to local firms.
His aim is for West Lothian Council and Historic Scotland to recognise the
historic significance of the area, either via signage and display boards or
even an adventure trail.
Jon is now looking for stories or research material that local people may have
about the battle or the local families involved.
He would also be interested in seeing any finds from the vicinity.
If you can help Jon in his research or would like to know more then contact
him via e-mail or write to
him at 22 Deanburn Park, Linlithgow.