The Murder of Alexander Abercrombie of Pitmedden
The calendar read February 2, 1610. In the quiet Scottish countryside of Pitmedden, a sinister plot was afoot, one that would culminate in a murder that would send shockwaves through the region. The victims were the Abercrombie family, and the perpetrators were James Gordon and Alexander Gordon, along with their cohort of dangerous associates. The crime would test the boundaries of justice, vengeance, and the murky world of feudal disputes.
The Rivalry
To understand the murder of Alexander Abercrombie, one must delve into the complex web of feudal rivalries that dominated early 17th-century Scotland. The Abercrombies, a respected family from Pitmedden, had long-standing disputes with the Gordons, who hailed from nearby Oxhill. The root of their enmity lay in territorial claims, personal vendettas, and a fierce competition for power and influence.
A Deadly Confrontation
March 12, 1594, was a day etched into the memories of the Abercrombie and Gordon families. On that fateful day, the Abercrombies crossed paths with their rivals. Alexander Abercrombie, a man known for his love of falconry, was at the Moss of Cokiloun, enjoying the company of his falconer. Little did he know that he was walking into a deadly trap.
Keep reading with a 7-day free trial
Subscribe to Tales of Forgotten Scottish History to keep reading this post and get 7 days of free access to the full post archives.