BattlefieldsBattle of Dryfe Sands
Tudor

Battle of Dryfe Sands

1593
Dumfriesshire, Scotland
Era
Tudor
Battle Type
Pitched Battle
Location
Dumfriesshire, Scotland
Status
Unregistered
The Combatants

Who Fought

Defeated
Maxwells (Lord Maxwell)
Forces
Maxwells c.300–500.
VS
Victor
Johnstones
Forces
Johnstones c.400–600
Outcome
Johnston victory; Lord Maxwell killed; feud continues
The Battle

History & Significance

One of the most savage clan feuds on the Scottish Borders — the Johnstones and Maxwells had been killing each other for decades. At Dryfe Sands the Johnstones ambushed the Maxwell force in the dark. Lord Maxwell was killed and his body reportedly mutilated. The feud continued until 1608 when a Johnston murdered the next Lord Maxwell in cold blood.

Casualties & Losses

Lord Maxwell killed; heavy Maxwell losses

Questions & Answers

Frequently Asked Questions

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