April 2, 200422 yr In response to David's 'bookshelf', here's a reposting of some of my books which I'd originally posted elsewhere. Other folks had added to this list, I've reposted only my own entries.Please add your own recommendations if you have a book or series of books worth a mention. David Macgibbon, Thomas Ross, The Castellated and Domestic Architecture of Scotland, Mercat Press,1977, facsimilie edition of 19thc originals. ISBN 0901824 186.5 huge volumes packed with detailed descriptions and architectural drawings of hundreds of Scottish castles, with added data on specific items such as collegiate churches, sundials, town houses.....Lenghty data on contracted masons, Royal Clerks of Works, and a lenghty introduction detailing the development of the Scottish Castle with it's roots in Normandy and England. Fine Drawings of many sites in both these countries with some historical data and fine drawings. A valuable resource for anyone. Books by Nigel Tranter;If you like historical detail and accurate descriptions of the buildings and lifestyles of the past, try some of the works of Nigel Tranter. A fantastic novelist and scottish patriot (but not a nationalist), he sadly died, aged 90 in January 2000.You will have some 130 novels to choose from, or several fascinating factual texts, including the five volumes of 'The Fortified House in Scotland'. A great man, and modest with it, his contribution to the communication of Scottish history to others cannot be understated. Always active in some campaign or other, many owe him a tremendous debt for his part in the renovations of their castles, as do all who see them extant rather than ruined. He also actively campaigned for the building of what is now the Forth Road Bridge and a Scottish Parliament. His part in these achievements is often forgotten, and is sorely missed by those who read his work, as by those who didn't know of him, but felt his influence. Obviously, being a Scot, my main interest lies within the rich heritage of my own country. Scotland provided it's own wide variety of styles of building,and historical drama which is difficult to rival. From a fiction point of view, the works of Nigel Tranter provide fair historical accuracy, within the bounds of his own interpretation of events, and give a reasonable view of life in various periods. Outstanding amongst these are 'The Bruce Trilogy', and 'The Wallace'. Both describe events in and around numerous castles in Scotland.From a factual point of view, detailed architectural descriptions do not come better than ' The Domestic & Castellated Architecture of Scotland', by McGibbon & Ross, 1887. This five volume epic is the Scottish castle hunters bible, and provides plans, drawings, descriptions, and a fair bit of local history.For listings of Scottish Castles, long gone and still standing, the gazetteer 'The Castles of Scotland' 3rd edition by Martin Coventry, pub. Goblinshead 2001, can't be beaten.However for long I wanted a combination of the two above for my local area, and so have written my own, and must out of bias and local preference, be my favourite. The Fortified House in Scotland, Nigel Tranter,5 volumes, ISBN 0901824 42 9Reprinted and revised 1986, from original 1962 editions, pub. The Mercat Press.Tranters love of the Scottish castle inspired him to use it as the basis of his numerous historical novels. These books detail the history of most of the remaining tower and hall houses of Scotland, each with his own pencil sketches, description of the building, and historical detail.They are much quoted books which are second in importance only to MacGibbon and Ross in recording extant Scottish castles. Tranter's books, however did not include what he called the great fortress homes of the higher nobility, and so sites such as Edinburgh, Crookston, Stirling and Bothwell are omitted. These books deal with fortalices, lesser castles, peel-towers, keeps and defensible lairds houses. Scotland,he said, is richer in these than any other country in the world. They certainly reflect the character and culture of the nation.These are a must read for any one who has an interest in Scottish castles. Tales and Traditions of Scotland's Castles, this edition p Neil Wilson Publishing 2000ISBN 1 897784 13 9Nigel TranterFor those interested in tales of the spooky legendary, or gory, this book details some of the more interesting legend associated with 45 different sites. 'Atlas of Scottish History to 1707' edited by Peter G B McNeil and Hector L MacQueen, the Scottish Medievalists and Department of Geography, University of Edinburgh, 1996.ISBN 0 9503904 1 0Cost £30462 pages packed with recently compiled maps detailing data on a variety of topics from the formation of the land to the Act of Union. Example topics; Defensible houses in Southern Scotland and northern England, Castles and Strongpoints, Mottes, Moated sites, defence with guns, the Crusades, Military orders in Scotland, landed influence in the fifteenth century, the Norman network, the Church, Trade , the Burghs, the Lordship of the Isles......About 5oo maps in total, this is an invaluable resource for serious Scottish history enthusiasts. Scottish Historical Documents, Prof. Gordon Donaldson,reprint NWP 1999, £14.99, ISBN 1 897784 41 4A collection of source material from some 242 documents which illustrate both the administration and history of Scotland, including The Declaration of Arbroath, examples of Acts of Parliament, land grants, treaties, education,the Kirk, the succesion, and much more. Greatly informative, and educational. Not specifically about castles, but great background material. Ancestral Castles of ScotlandHugh cantlie, with photography by Sampson LloydCollins & Brown 1992 £8.99 ISBN1 85585 118 0Superb photographs and accompanying narrative on 27 of Scotland's 'most historic and romantic private castles'A bit of a bargain this if you appreciate the photography (including interior detail such as the 1597 painted ceiling at Delgatie) and the thorough history. 'Medieval Scotland'by Peter Yeoman published by BT Batsford and Historic Scotland in 1995.ISBN 0 7134 7465 3.This book uses modern archaeological evidence to describe life in rural and urban Scotland in the middle ages, describing lifestyles of the lower classes, clerics and nobles, within the burghs,castles, monasteries and in the countryside. For purchasing info go to the Batsford/ Historic Scotland website at http://www.batsford.com/Archaeology/HSCOT.html Castles and Ancient Monuments of Scotlandp The Daily Telegraph 2000Damien NoonanISBN 1 85410 677 5A visiting guide to 200 or so Scottish historical sites,including many many castle. good one for those planning a trip over here.Information is concise, good photographs, with some historical background on each site. Scotland's Castlesp Historic Scotland 1997Chris TabrahamISBN 0 7134 7965 5An excellent and detailed insight into the development of castles in Scotland, written by one of our leading archeologist/writers.Superb explanations, plans, photos, and even a little humour. Full of details of discoveries made during the authors digs. The Surnames of ScotlandGeorge F. BlackFirst published in the USA in 1946, this edition Birlinn 1999ISBN 1 874744 83 1The definitive work on the sources of Scottish surnames, Black has compiled an unrivaled list of common and rare Scottish surnames, and described their source. Limited family history is given with each entry by providing dates and records of the occurence of each name and it's variants. An essential reference work for geneologists and those researching estate ownerships. The Castles of ScotlandMaurice LindsayConstable 1994ISBN 0 09 473430 5Lindsay gives thorough descriptions and detailed histories on those castles still standing in a volume which provides outstanding value. Packed with detailed information and numerous photographs this is a popular book. RIAS Illustrated Architectural Guides-A series published by the Royal Incorporation of Architects in Scotland, these 'Illustrated Architectural Guides' describe the more interesting buildings of Scotland, on a region by region basis. The descriptions often include details of previous structures on site and a history of the land ownership, and for those prepared to read through them can provide some revealing data on castles both extant and long gone. Areas covered include, Moray, Edinburgh, Dundee, Central Glasgow (a limited edition celebrating Glagow's year as Uk City of Architecture and Design in 1999), The North Clyde Estuary, The South Clyde Estuary ....and many more. 'Discovering' series...Published by John Donald, this series provides descriptions of a variety of areas of Scotland, giving details of local topography, attractions, ancient and medieval sites, local history etc. Given the variety of different authors employed , there is only a common basic layout for the series, each author supplying his own slant to the approach and information provided in an attampt to reflect local culture and tradition. These are however excellent value and provide superbly detailed guides to a variety of localities throughout the country. Price is normally under £10, and areas covered include, Ayrshire, The River Clyde, Galloway, The River Forth, Argyll Mull and Iona, Aberdeenshire, Angus and the Mearns, Arran, The Borders (two volumes), the Black Isle, Fife.......... Wee Guide series'The Pocket Scottish History Series' GoblinsheadIf you are travelling Scotland then whatever your subject a Wee Guide will map the sites and detail visiting arrangements to sites of interest, each with a wealth of background and history. There are now about 20 titles, each £3.95, includingPrehistoric Scotland, Castles and Mansions, Haunted Castles, The Picts, Robert The Bruce, William Wallace, Mary Queen of Scots, Whisky, Robert Burns.... Robert Bruce and The Community of The Realm of Scotland, Prof GWS Barrow. Edinburgh University Press, 1988 3rd ed.ISBN 0 85224 604 8The definative work on the life and times of the 'Hero King' from which all others take reference. Incredibly detailed, describing the western european politcs of the era, the campaigns, the policies, sieges, castles, land ownership, allegiances, alliances, and of course The Wars of Independance. This can be heavy going, but careful reading reveals a great deal about life in the 13th and 14th centuries.For an easier to read account of events, politics, sieges and campaigns, tryRobert The Bruce, Ronald McNair Scott, Canongate books Ltd, 1988 ISBN 0 86241 172 6 Stone of Destiny, Pat Gerber,Canongate, £6.99ISBN 0 86241 670 1A thouroughly researched study of the facts and legend surrounding this symbol of Scotiish nationhood.Real or copy? If it's a fake where's the real Lia Fail and is it a 14th c fake, or 20th? .........................A wonderfully thought provoking little book, which offers no absolute answers, but certainly captures the imagination with some intelligent discussion. Illustrated maps Of Scotland (from Bleau's Atlas Novus of the 17th Century)Jeffrey Stone, Studio Editions, ISBN 1 85170 813 8An analysis of the famous early maps of Scotland which provide invaluable data for all researchers into sitings/development of towns,properties, castles, fortified houses.......Stone provides deatails of how the maps were drawn, then ammended, and later published in Holland, whilst providing a colour copy of each (though you'll need a good magnifying glass to study them). John Barbour,'The Bruce', 1375, this edition a republication of George Eyre Todd's 1907 translation from the Scots vernacular, Mercat Press 1996, ISBN 1873644 582.Barbours hero worshiping poem of the fourteenth century details the rise of 'The Hero King' in glowing and exagerrated terms, though cannot be seen as an accurate historical reference. As example the name William Wallace does not even appear, however as a work of early prose it stands as one of the great achievements of early Scottish writing. It is also fascinating as an early piece of propaganda, as the descendants of Bruce established their rights to the throne and accepted all credit for the victory of the Wars of Independance. 'Blind Harry's Wallace', first published c1508, translated as a new edition ny William Hamilton of Gilbertfield in 1722, this edition of Hamilton's Translation by the Luath Press 1998, ISBN 0-946487-33-2The story of Wallace survives only as legend and a few references to his activities as 'outlaw' in English records. However Blind Harry resurrected the story at the Scottish court in the 15thc, publishing in 1508. As with Barbour, Harry hero worshiped his subject, and redressed the balance of the tale of The Wars of Independance. Again as a work of historical importance it's value is doubtful due to the obvious frequent exagerrations and restructuring of apparent events. However as a work of prose, this is an epic, so good a tale in fact that Randall Wallace constructed the screen play for the film 'Braveheart' upon it.Despite it's obvious errors,and dubious factual accuracy it remains the principal source of what is known about the life of Wallace in documented form. www.luath.co.uk Scotland, A New History- Michael Lynch, Pimlico 1992 with various reprints, ISBN 0-7126-9893A hefty paperback history of Scotland, lucid, serious and detailed, this is a superb and economical one volume work which encompasses as much as many a multi volume history. From Columba to modern Scotland, the research is scrupulous, and adequately illustrated. Collins Encyclopaedia of Scotland Keay, John (ed) & Keay, Julia (ed) ISBN 0007103530 £ 45.00 Hardback HarperCollins 16 Oct 2000 This is a recently revised edition of the 1994 publication. A most comprehensive reference work on all things Scottish, from personalities to places, and castles to duns.Very worthwhile, even if you just want to see the excellent castle drawings of RW Billings which illustrate each castle entry.One review stated; 'An awesome achievement..., just ask for the Keays next time you want to know anything about Scotland'That's a fair assesment. Daniel Martin, Upper Clydesdale, a History and A Guide.Tuckwell Press 1999, ISBN1 86232 057 8£9.99A wonderfully detailed little book which describes this most scenic and historic area of Scotland. Describing each locality and how to get around, Martin paints an intimate portrait of the local history and associations with well kent names.Recommended for those who wish to follow the trail of Wallace or the Black Douglas, or enjoy the rich heritage. Features early and recent photographs of several of the areas numerous castles. Scotland's Stone of Destiny, Nick Aitchison, Tempus, 2000, ISBN 0 7524 1465 8 £19.99 hardbackProviding a balance to the popular myths surrounding this ancient stone, the author argues against those myths in an attempt to show that the stone on display with the Scottish regalia at Edinburgh castle, is indeed the true stone. Aitchison provides a critical analysis of the myths, their origin, and by providing geological evidence suggests that the stone is of Scottish rather than Irish origin. The history of the stone, the events and the propaganda are explained, and although this is really an alternative explanation of the evidence thus far rather than providing new evidence, it makes a very interesting read. Dynasty, The Stuarts, 1560-1807John Macleod, Sceptre, 1999, ISBN 0-340-70767-4 £8.99An easy to read history of'one of the most glamorous, foolish and unlucky families ever to sit on our thrones: the faces that launched a thousand shortbread tins, faces of a family driven at last to extinction'A forthright appraisal of the characters and rule of the Stuart Kings and Queens, and their uncrowned heirs, from the reign of Mary Queen of Scots. Scottish Battles from Mons Graupius to Culloden John Sadler Canongate 1996 ISBN 0 86241 508 XAn account of Scottish history, detailing the battles fought in Scotland, and the changing role of the Scot as a warrior/soldier. An intersting read with discussion on changing tactics, weaponry, organisation and armour through the centuries. In Search Of Scotland...edited by Gordon Menzies, Polygon..2001 ISBN 1 902930 23 1the companion book to the BBC Scotland series which examined the history of Scotland via the properties of Historic Scotland. This is an excellent introduction to Scottish history, as well as providing up to date interpretations by professionals on many of the historic sites for the established enthusiast. Superb photography of artefacts, sites and medieval art work compliment an extremely informative text.
April 3, 200422 yr Author Thank you.I feel somewhat like a spunky but niave school kid who just asked the proffesor a loaded question and got put in his place. Wow. guess you guys have stuck your faces in a few books in your time,eh? Once my head stops spinning from the torrent of data Ill have to decipher what i need and pursue it. One problem that i see that Im running into is that because I havent seen anything on tthe shelves beyond the ordinary skin deep type books that typical bookstores offer, I havent the foggiest clue as to what these other references are (Imean they sound like these amazingly thick, dusty tomes, ya know) So its a little difficult to choose on minimal data. got any suggestions for being able to see samples of their content? Scott drinks moat*#@er.
April 3, 200422 yr Gordon, being the humble Scot, has missed out one vital tome from the list. "The Castles of Glasgow & the Clyde" by ... Gordon W. MasonISBN 1 899 874 186Goblinshead130B Inveresk RoadMusselburgh EH21 7AY More castles than you'd ever imagined, listed and described in great detail. Thanks Gordon - still regularly look at my copy.Andrew
April 5, 200422 yr Author Either of you guys: Stand in my shoes if you would. Now what book(s) would you recommend if you had to choose one or two? Im more intrested in getting one that centered more around building techniques - rather than styles of particular castles. Moreso into the architectural hands-on (a manual) , rather than a speculative work that would list wich castles are what period or style. One that would lean in the direction of decribing a corbels purpose and how it was placed rather than the biography of the guy who invented it. Whats your viewpoint? Scott drinks moat*#@er
April 5, 200422 yr McGibbon & Ross is expensive, but always a good investment for anyone who has a continuing interest. They wrote as architects, hence their version of the history can be a little wayward, relying on the romanticised stories given by the then owners of the castle. For samples of their drawings click on the link to my own page below, and go to plans.This link might be of some use;http://www.trp.dundee.ac.uk/research/glossary/glossary.htmlAndrew, you are embarrassing me again :blush.gif: :laugh:
April 6, 200422 yr Admin Scot you need but ask and we will answer what questions you have with images more likely then not. Gordon the book you gave Meg and me is still in constant use if nothing else but for research. I wish it was as easy here to use it for a field guide as it is there. :happy.gif:
April 8, 200422 yr Gordon. You - embarrassed !!? Tis your own fault for writing the book in the first place. I could of course, have added a few comments about the book, but these would be likely to cause further embarrassment Andrew
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