The Wolf of Badenoch

In the annals of Scottish history, one name stands out as a symbol of terror and chaos, a name that continues to evoke a sense of dread centuries after his death: the Wolf of Badenoch. Alexander Stewart, the Wolf of Badenoch, was a man whose actions and reputation painted a dark and ruthless portrait. Yet, like any historical figure, his story is far more nuanced than the moniker suggests.

The Young Wolf of Badenoch

To understand Alexander Stewart, we must begin at the beginning. Born as the fourth son of Robert Stewart and Elizabeth Mure of Rowellan, Alexander's early life was marked by the shadow of ambition and intrigue. His father, Robert Stewart, was a man with his eyes set on the throne of Scotland, and he would stop at nothing to achieve his goals. Throughout the early years of Alexander's life, his father's ambition and conflicts with King David II set the stage for the family's ascent to power.

In 1348, when Alexander was just five years old, Robert Stewart married Elizabeth Mure, legitimizing his children, including Alexander. The family's fortunes began to rise, and Robert's plans for power were set into motion.

The Rise to Power

In 1371, a pivotal moment occurred in Alexander Stewart's life. King David II passed away, and Robert Stewart, Alexander's father, ascended to the throne as Robert II of Scots. This marked the beginning of Alexander's rapid rise to power. He was appointed Lord of Badenoch, a title that would become synonymous with his reign of terror. But this was just the beginning.

Over the years that followed, Alexander accumulated titles and lands at a breathtaking pace. He became the Earl of Buchan, Sheriff of Inverness, and Justiciar of Scotland north of the Forth. The royal patronage he enjoyed from his father allowed him to expand his influence even further. By 1382, he had married Euphemia, Countess of Ross, adding the Earldom of Ross and extensive lands in the north-west to his ever-expanding domain.

Alexander's authority was not just on paper; it extended to real power in the north. His control over vast territories and key routes through the central Highlands gave him immense leverage and dominance. But power often comes at a cost, and Alexander's reign would soon be marked by a series of conflicts and controversies.

An Abuse of Power

Unbridled power and unbridled passion make for a volatile combination. The Wolf of Badenoch was an imposing figure, known for his large stature, florid complexion, and jet-black beard. He used his appearance to maximum effect, but it was his actions that would define his legacy.

Alexander ruled his lands with an iron fist, using violence and intimidation to maintain control. His main force consisted of caterans, paid Gaelic warriors who executed his often ruthless orders. A pattern emerged in his land acquisitions – he would claim over-lordship, send in his caterans to raid, and eventually secure legal ownership. Most would acquiesce to his demands, but not all.

Clash with the Church: The Bishop of Moray

As Alexander expanded his territory, it was inevitable that he would clash with other powerful figures, none more so than the church. In 1370, a protection agreement had been made between Alexander Bur, the Bishop of Moray, and the Lord of Badenoch, ensuring that Alexander had no power over the bishop's lands. However, the domain of Rothiemurcus, granted to the church by Alexander II, became a target. Raids by the caterans were causing significant losses, and the church's position began to weaken.

The turning point came in 1380 when Alexander Stewart called a meeting of landowners within the Lordship of Badenoch. Bishop Alexander Bur was among those summoned, and he was determined to protect the Chapels of Rate and Dunachton, maintaining their independence from Alexander Stewart's control.

The Wolf Gets His Way

On the 11th of October, 1380, a significant court convened. The Bishop of Moray appeared with a substantial retinue, and the stage was set for a battle of wills. Ultimately, the Bishop of Moray managed to retain control over the Chapels of Rate and Dunachton, but Rothiemurcus was firmly in the hands of the Wolf of Badenoch. Alexander had successfully applied his land acquisition tactics even against the church, and it marked the beginning of a feud between the two Alexanders.

Bishop Bur was biding his time, waiting for the right moment to strike back. His revenge would come later, but for now, Alexander Stewart had secured a significant victory.

The Wolf's Lair at Lochindorb

As the Wolf of Badenoch continued to consolidate his power, he made Lochindorb Castle his primary residence. Lochindorb, meaning 'Loch of Trouble' in Gaelic, was located on a loch, surrounded by hills, in the heart of the Dava Moor. The castle's location made it virtually impregnable, a fitting lair for a man who ruled with an iron fist.

At Lochindorb, Alexander Stewart indulged in his love life. His marriage to Euphemia, his wife, was strained, and he blamed her for not producing an heir. In a dramatic move, he replaced Euphemia with his mistress, Mariota Athyn. Rumors of his affairs and illegitimate children swirled, adding to the complexities of his personal life.