BattlefieldsSkirmish at Tain 1306
Medieval

Skirmish at Tain 1306

1306
Ross-shire, Scotland
Also known as: Capture of Bruce's womenfolk at Tain
Era
Medieval
Battle Type
Skirmish
Location
Ross-shire, Scotland
Status
Unregistered
The Combatants

Who Fought

Defeated
Bruce family
Forces
Bruce family c. 50–100; small garrison action against refugees.
VS
Victor
England (Ross / English agents)
Forces
English/Ross forces c. 200–400
Outcome
Bruce's wife, daughter, and sisters captured at sanctuary of St Duthac
The Battle

History & Significance

After Bruce's defeats at Methven and Dalrigh, he sent his wife Elizabeth, daughter Marjorie, and sisters to seek sanctuary at the shrine of St Duthac at Tain. The Earl of Ross violated the sanctuary and captured them, handing them to Edward I. Elizabeth was imprisoned in a cage-like bower; Marjorie, aged twelve, was similarly imprisoned. They remained captive for eight years until Bannockburn enabled their ransom.

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