Johnne Gordon Abusive Reign as Sheriff-Depute of Aberdeen
In the annals of history, there are those who wielded power with responsibility and fairness, upholding the law. And then there are those who, like Johnne Gordon of Clubifgoule, the Sheriff-Depute of Aberdeen, used their authority to oppress, abuse, and manipulate. The story of Johnne Gordon serves as a vivid illustration of power gone awry in 17th-century Scotland.
A Ruthless Sheriff-Depute:
Johnne Gordon of Clubifgoule, a member of the Gordon clan, found himself in a position of great influence and authority. As Sheriff-Depute of Aberdeen, he was tasked with upholding the law and ensuring justice prevailed. However, it didn't take long for Johnne Gordon to demonstrate a shocking abuse of power.
Gordon's Reign of Terror:
Johnne Gordon's reign was marked by a series of shocking abuses and incidents, leaving a dark mark on Aberdeen's history.
The Unlawful Seizure of Frances Hay: The beginning of Johnne Gordon's abuses can be traced back to his involvement in the unlawful seizure of Frances Hay, son of George Hay of Ardlethame. In a shocking display of power, Gordon and his associates stormed the residence of William Hay of Logijrnif, violently taking Frances Hay against his will. The actions that followed were nothing short of a nightmare for Frances Hay.
Frances Hay's Brutal Imprisonment: Following the unlawful seizure, Frances Hay was imprisoned within the lodging of George Gordon of Geicht, a principal figure in Johnne Gordon's camp. Frances was held captive in the "Bony Wyfes Inner" in the Gallowgait of Aberdeen. For forty harrowing hours, he was denied access to his family and friends, suffering in cruel confinement.
Denying Legal Representation: One of the most egregious abuses of power in Johnne Gordon's reign was his refusal to allow proper legal representation for Frances Hay. This denial of the right to a fair defense was a blatant disregard for the principles of justice.
The Kangaroo Court: Johnne Gordon took it upon himself to act as both prosecutor and judge in the case against Frances Hay, a clear conflict of interest. He conducted a kangaroo court, where fairness and impartiality were thrown to the wind. The court was stacked in favor of Gordon's interests, with the judges clearly acting under his influence.
Frances Hay's Fate: The outcome of this farce of a trial was the conviction of Frances Hay for the alleged murder of Adam Gordon, George Hay's brother. With no fair trial, and a court that was nothing more than a puppet show, Frances Hay was sentenced to death. The verdict was a tragic miscarriage of justice, orchestrated by Johnne Gordon.
Consequences and Uprising:
The abuses of power and injustices committed by Johnne Gordon did not go unnoticed. The people of Aberdeen and surrounding areas were appalled by the cruelty and tyranny they had witnessed. Injustice on this scale could not be allowed to stand. A growing unrest and resistance began to take shape against the oppressive reign of the Sheriff-Depute.
License to Seize and Retaliation: Johnne Gordon attempted to secure a license for several gentlemen of his name to accompany and assist him in court. This move was met with skepticism and outrage by those who saw it as an attempt to further manipulate the legal proceedings.
The Earl of Erroll: The Earl of Erroll, another powerful figure, also became involved in the case, seeking a license from the Council to participate in the matter. However, due to suspicions regarding his excommunication and potential bias, his request was denied.
The Uprising: The people's growing discontent culminated in a significant uprising against Johnne Gordon and his abuses. The case had become a symbol of the corruption and misuse of power that had permeated Aberdeen.
Conclusion:
The story of Johnne Gordon of Clubifgoule, the Sheriff-Depute of Aberdeen, serves as a cautionary tale about the abuse of power and the importance of upholding the principles of justice and fairness. His reign of terror and manipulation had far-reaching consequences, leading to a public outcry against the injustice. The case of Frances Hay and the rebellion against Johnne Gordon are historical reminders that the abuse of power will not be tolerated by a just and informed society.
