The Skene's "Dumb Lady"

Tragedy and Triumph of Mary Forbes

In the annals of Scottish history, the tale of Mary Forbes, known as "The Dumb Lady of Skene," stands out as a poignant narrative of resilience, strength, and the human spirit's indomitable will to thrive against all odds.

Mary Forbes was born into the Forbes family, a name as ancient and noble as the Skenes themselves. Little is known about her early life, but her story becomes entwined with the Skene family through a marriage that was as controversial as it was transformative. Despite her inability to speak, Mary's life was to become a testament to the power of non-verbal communication and her influence within the Skene family.

The Controversial Marriage

The turning point in Mary's life came with her marriage to a Skene laird. According to legend, Mary was wronged by the laird, leading to a forced marriage. This event is pivotal as it not only changed Mary's life forever but also allegedly brought a curse upon the Skene family by Mary’s enraged father. Despite this inauspicious beginning, Mary’s marriage was to play a crucial role in the fortunes of the Skene family.

As the lady of the Skene estate, Mary found herself in a world vastly different from her upbringing. Communication barriers notwithstanding, she had to navigate the complex dynamics of a powerful clan, manage a large estate, and carve a place for herself in a society that often marginalized those with disabilities.

Mary's inability to speak in a society that heavily relied on verbal communication was a significant challenge. Yet, she demonstrated an incredible resilience and adaptability. Her life at the Skene estate is a testament to her strength of character. She managed not only to survive but also to exert her influence and leave a lasting impact on the estate and its affairs.

The Dumb Lady’s Influence

Despite her disability, Mary was far from being a passive figure in the Skene household. Her presence and actions significantly influenced the estate's management and the family's social standing. She developed her ways of communication, using non-verbal cues and probably written notes, to make her thoughts and decisions known. Her influence extended beyond the household into the broader community, where she was respected and admired for her dignity and intelligence.

Mary's legacy is a complex tapestry of tragedy and triumph. Her life challenges the stereotypes of disability and highlights the societal attitudes towards women and disabled individuals in historical Scotland. Her story is one of overcoming adversity and making a mark in a world that was not designed for people like her.

Mary's story is intricately linked with the legend of the Skene family curse. Her father's alleged curse, proclaimed out of anguish over his daughter's forced marriage, is said to have doomed the Skene lineage to extinction. While the accuracy of this curse is debatable, it adds a layer of intrigue and tragedy to Mary's story.

Historical Perspectives on Disability

Mary Forbes's life offers valuable insights into the historical perceptions of disability. In a time when disabilities were often misunderstood, Mary's life stands as a beacon of dignity and capability. She challenges the preconceived notions of her era, showing that disability does not equate to inability.

Over time, Mary's story has taken on a near-legendary status, becoming part of the local folklore. She is remembered not just as the 'Dumb Lady' but as a figure of strength and resilience. The tales of her life, passed down through generations, continue to inspire and fascinate.

Mary's story also sheds light on the role of women in Scottish clan societies. Often overshadowed by their male counterparts, women like Mary played crucial roles in managing estates, shaping family alliances, and influencing clan politics. Mary's life is a reminder of the often understated but important role of women in clan leadership.

Adapted from: Skene, W. F. (1887). Memorials of the family of Skene of Skene, from the family papers, with other illustrative documents. Aberdeen: New Spalding Club.