BattlefieldsBattle of Sandside
Medieval

Battle of Sandside

1464
Caithness, Scotland
Also known as: Clan Gunn major battle 1464
Era
Medieval
Battle Type
Pitched Battle
Location
Caithness, Scotland
Status
Unregistered
The Combatants

Who Fought

Defeated
Gunns (George Gunn the Crowner killed)
Forces
Gunns c.300–600
VS
Victor
Sinclairs
Forces
Sinclairs c.300–600
Outcome
Gunn chief killed under truce; Gunn power permanently reduced
The Battle

History & Significance

George Gunn — the Crowner (coroner) of Caithness and leader of his clan — was killed by the Sinclairs after a treacherous truce meeting at the chapel of St Tear near Sandside. He came expecting negotiation with twelve horsemen; the Sinclairs brought twelve horsemen per horse — 144 men. Gunn and his sons were killed. The treachery was long remembered and the Gunn clan never fully recovered.

Casualties & Losses

George Gunn the Crowner and his sons killed

Questions & Answers

Frequently Asked Questions

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