Examine individual changes

'{{EngvarB|date=October 2013}} {{Use dmy dates|date=October 2013}} {{Infobox building |name =Taymouth Castle |image =File:Taymouth Castle.jpg |caption =Taymouth Castle's eastern façade |map_type =Scotland Perth and Kinross |coordinates = {{coord|56.594972|-3.9810339|display=inline}} |location =Perth and Kinross |location_town =Kenmore |location_country =Scotland |architect =J and A Elliot |client =John Campbell |engineer = |construction_start_date =1806 |completion_date =1842 |date_demolished = |cost = |structural_system = |style =Neo Gothic Style |size = }} '''Taymouth Castle''' is situated to the north-east of the village of [[Kenmore, Perth and Kinross]] in the [[Highlands of Scotland]], in an estate which encompasses 450 acres.<ref name="dailymail.co.uk">http://www.dailymail.co.uk/travel/travel_news/article-2908050/Own-slice-Royal-history-Scottish-castle-Queen-Victoria-honeymooned-turned-SIX-STAR-timeshare-style-hotel-following-26m-restoration.html</ref> It lies on the south bank of the [[River Tay]], about a mile from [[Loch Tay]], in the heartland of the [[Grampians National Park|Western Grampians]]. Taymouth is bordered on two sides by mountain ranges, by Loch Tay on the third and by the confluence of the rivers Lyon and Tay on the fourth.<ref name="portal.historicenvironment.scot">http://portal.historicenvironment.scot/designation/GDL00354</ref> Taymouth Castle stands on the site of the much older Balloch Castle, which was built in 1552, as the seat of the Campbell clan. In the early 19th century, Balloch Castle was demolished by the [[Clan Campbell|Campbells]] of [[Breadalbane, Scotland|Breadalbane]], so that the new, much larger castle could be rebuilt on the site. The new castle's blue-grey stone was taken from the quarry at Bolfracks.<ref name="ReferenceA">Dundee Evening Telegraph dated 30th November 1950, Page 4</ref> Built in a neo-Gothic style and on a lavish scale, Taymouth Castle is regarded as the most important Scottish castle in private ownership. Its public rooms are outstanding examples of the workmanship of the finest craftsmen of the 19th century. No expense was spared on the castle's interior, which was decorated with extravagant carvings, plasterwork and murals. Panels of medieval stained glass and [[Renaissance]] woodwork were incorporated into the scheme. Much of this decor still survives.<ref name="taymouth-castle.com">http://www.taymouth-castle.com</ref> [[Francis Bernasconi]], acknowledged as the greatest designer of fine plasterwork of the era, created the magnificent central staircase, that connects all four storeys of the central tower. Many of the ceilings were painted by Cornelius Dixon.<ref name="taymouth-castle.com"/> The castle is a [[listed building#Scotland|Category A]] listed building,<ref name=listed>{{cite web |url=http://data.historic-scotland.gov.uk/pls/htmldb/f?p=2200:15:0::::BUILDING:12093 |title=Taymouth Castle |publisher=Historic Scotland |accessdate=11 January 2013}}</ref> and the grounds, which include parklands and woodlands, are included in the [[Inventory of Gardens and Designed Landscapes]], the national listing of significant gardens.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://data.historic-scotland.gov.uk/pls/htmldb/f?p=2400:15:0::::GARDEN:GDL00354 |title=Taymouth Castle |work=An Inventory of Gardens and Designed Landscapes in Scotland |publisher=Historic Scotland |accessdate=11 January 2013}}</ref> [[Historic Environment Scotland]] have graded the castle as 'outstanding' in all of the following categories; 'Work of Art', 'Historical', 'Architectural' and 'Scenic'. They also acknowledged that due to the remnants of its [[pinetum]] and the outstanding size of its remaining trees, it also has [[horticultural]] value.<ref name="portal.historicenvironment.scot"/> It is said that some of the first [[larches]] brought to Scotland from the [[South Tyrol|Tyrol]] were planted on the estate.<ref name="ReferenceA"/> Twelve of Taymouth Castle's buildings/structures are currently recorded on the [[Buildings at Risk Register for Scotland]].<ref>http://www.buildingsatrisk.org.uk/search/keyword/taymouth%20castle/p/1</ref> Due to its severely deteriorating condition, Taymouth Castle has been empty since approximately 1982. However, its new owners are currently restoring and redeveloping the castle, as a luxury hotel resort. The castle is currently open as an events centre for weddings, conferences and banquets. The refurbished castle is due to open as a fully functioning luxury hotel in the summer of 2018. {{As of|April 2017}}, the golf course is currently closed until further notice, whilst it is being extended and re-modelled. ==Features== ===Estate landmarks=== Among the landmarks that still survive on the 450 acre estate are: * A ruined 19th-century circular tower, known as the Rock Lodge. This is a single-storey building, built around 1830, with a two-stage circular [[Gothic architecture|Gothic]] [[folly]]. It was originally habitable, despite being built to appear as a ruin.<ref name="buildingsatrisk.org.uk">http://www.buildingsatrisk.org.uk/search/keyword/taymouth%20castle/event_id/898033/building_name/taymouth-castle-rock-lodge-kenmore</ref> * A derelict temple, known as Apollo's Temple. There is some evidence that this small circular building, which perhaps dates back to the 1770s, may have once housed a sculpture.<ref>http://www.buildingsatrisk.org.uk/search/keyword/taymouth%20castle/event_id/901089/building_name/taymouth-castle-apollos-temple-kenmore</ref> * A semi-circular folly, known as The Fort. * Another temple, known as Maxwell's Temple. This temple, of an [[Eleanor cross]] type construction, was built in 1830 as a tribute to Mary, Countess of Breadalbane.<ref>http://www.buildingsatrisk.org.uk/search/keyword/taymouth%20castle/event_id/910849/building_name/taymouth-castle-maxwells-temple-kenmore</ref> * A historic dairy, standing on Tom Mor in the castle's grounds and described as the 'House that Sparkles'. It glistens 'white' due to the quartz from which it is made, taken from the spur of [[Ben Lawers]]. When Queen Victoria visited the dairy in 1842, she turned the handle of a churn, sipped a glass of milk and ate an oatmeal [[Bannock (food)|bannock]]. She described the dairy as a kind of Swiss Cottage.<ref>The Dundee Courier dated 13 May 1952, Page 2</ref> * A historic urn, known as The Monument. * A ruined tower. All of the above structures are listed with [[Historic Environment Scotland]]. ===Taymouth Castle Golf Club=== Taymouth Castle has its own 18-hole golf course, operated by the Taymouth Castle Golf Club. The course was laid over the castle's former deer park and designed by the renowned golfer, [[James Braid (golfer)|James Braid]] in 1925. {{As of|April 2017}}, the course is closed whilst it is being extended and re-modelled. At 6,066 yards, it was regarded as too small for modern championship golf courses and so is being increased to 7,039 yards. Also, much of Braid's original features disappeared over the last 90 years. These are being restored, with views of the River Tay also being introduced into the course.<ref>http://www.taymouth-castle.com/basic/english/golf.html</ref> In 1839, the deer park was said to contain 700 [[fallow deer]], 100 [[red deer]], some black deer and some moose deer. There were also some wild Indian buffaloes, taken from the 'rocky mountains of the New World'.<ref>York Herald dated 12 October 1839, Page 4</ref> ===Fly fishing=== The castle offers some of Scotland's finest fishing, with two and a half miles of salmon fishing through the estate, on the [[River Tay]]. The Tay is the longest river in Scotland and is one of the best rivers in the [[United Kingdom]] and [[Europe]] for [[Atlantic Salmon]]. The estate also has fishing rights on [[Loch Tay]], which contains [[Northern Pike|pike]], [[perch]], [[Common Roach|roach]] and [[trout]].<ref name="taymouth-castle.com"/> ==Additional Information== ===The Campbells of Breadalbane and Glenorchy=== The first twelve owners of the Balloch/Taymouth Castle estate, who held the lands throughout its period of private ownership between 1550 and 1922, were all Campbells of the [[Clan Campbell]] and members of the [[Peerage of Scotland]]. In the usual way, the ownership of the estate (and the various titles) were generally passed from father to son, excepting when there were no male heirs. This particular branch of the Campbell family were given the titles of [[Breadalbane, Scotland|Breadalbane]], an area in the [[Scottish Highlands|Highlands]] of Scotland; and [[Glen Orchy|Glenorchy]], a [[glen]] in [[Argyll and Bute]]. A number of the Campbells were Earls of Breadalbane and [[Parts of Holland|Holland]]. The family were given the lands of Breadalbane and [[Lawers]] in the 15th century by [[James III of Scotland|King James III]], for Sir Colin Campbell's help in capturing Thomas Chalmer, one of the assassins of [[James I of Scotland|King James I]].<ref>Dundee Evening Telegraph dated 9th April 1919, Page 2</ref> The title of Holland refers to an area of [[Lincolnshire]], England. The [[John Campbell, 1st Earl of Breadalbane and Holland|1st Earl of Breadalbane and Holland]] married the [[Henry Rich, 1st Earl of Holland|1st Earl of Holland's]] daughter, Lady Mary Rich. He therefore acquired the English title of Holland, through his wife. The [[Henry Rich, 1st Earl of Holland|1st Earl of Holland]] was executed in London in 1649 for [[treason]]. He was beheaded. Sir Colin Campbell of Glenorchy, who built Balloch Castle in 1552, was a [[knight]], the lowest rank of all of the owners of Balloch and Taymouth Castle. As time went on, his descendants' rank gradually increased, until the last Campbell listed, Sir Gavin Campbell, 1st Marquess of Breadalbane until 1922, achieved the high rank of [[Marquess]]. The male ranking hierarchy in Scotland, from lowest to highest is as follows; [[Knight]], [[Baronet]], [[Baron]], [[Lord of Parliament]], [[Viscount]], [[Earl]], [[Marquess]] and [[Duke]]. The Campbells of Breadalbane were incredibly powerful and influential, due to the vast amounts of land that they owned in Scotland. They were also involved in many of the violent events and battles during Scotland's historical clan feuds. They were thus, highly feared by the other clans, for their determination to both increase their power and influence and to defend their estates at all costs, throughout this bloody period in Scotland's history. There was also a long-running [[feud]] between the Campbells and the [[Clan Gregor|Gregors]], who later went on to become known as the MacGregors, for whom the famous [[Rob Roy MacGregor]] belonged. More information about these events are detailed in the history sections below.<ref name="scotsman.com">http://www.scotsman.com/news/which-was-the-most-feared-highland-clan-1-4371553</ref> ===The Black Book of Taymouth=== In 1855, the [[John Campbell, 2nd Marquess of Breadalbane|2nd Marquess of Breadalbane]] allowed historical papers from the Breadlabane Charter Room to be published in printed form in a book called The Black Book of Taymouth. This book had in fact largely been written and compiled between 1598 and 1648 by William Bowie, although [[Cosmo Innes]] also contributed to the 1855 publication, which includes entries up to 1703. The papers therein, more gives the history of the Central Highlands, than that of the Breadalbane family, although this too is referred to in the book. The book is written in [[Scots language|Scots]], with William Bowie dedicating his version of the book to Sir Duncan Campbell of Glenorchy, 1st Baronet Campbell, otherwise known as 'Black Duncan'. Bowie was both the tutor to Duncan's children and the family scribe.<ref>The Inverness Courier dated 25 January 1855, Page 4</ref><ref>Kinship, Church and Culture: Collected Essays and Studies By John W.M. Bannerman</ref> The book has been re-printed a number of times, including as recently as 2015. ===Taymouth Castle ships=== There have been at least three ships with the name Taymouth Castle. The first was a sailing vessel, built in 1851 by Scott & Sons. The second was a three-masted 'fully rigged' sailing vessel, built in 1865, by [[Charles Connell & Company]]. This was unfortunately wrecked just two years later, with the loss of all 19 crew and passengers on board, off the coast of Torr Head, [[Antrim, County Antrim|Antrim]], [[Northern Ireland]] in 1867.<ref>http://www.clydeships.co.uk</ref> There was also the [[Royal Mail]] steam ship Taymouth Castle, built in 1877 by [[Barclay Curle|Messrs Barclay Curle & Co]]. Despite having steam engines and a screw propeller, it also had two masts, giving it an early hybrid power source.<ref>http://collections.rmg.co.uk/collections/objects/145228.html</ref> ===Witches and Ghosts=== There is an old tale surrounding a blue sapphire stone which is set into a ring belonging to the Grahams of Inchbrakie, Perthshire. Some time in the 17th century, the Laird of Inchbrakie witnessed a large crowd, headed by one of the Campbells of Glenorchy, who were preparing to drown a witch. The Laird recognised the victim as being Katherine Niven, his old nurse and subsequently did his best to try and save her. He was unsuccessful, but she was still grateful enough to throw him a blue sapphire stone for his efforts. She said that whilst the stone remained with him, he would always have good fortune and that the Campbells would not have a male heir. Both prophecies were said to have come true.<ref>The Dundee Telegraph dated 6th April 1937, Page 3</ref> If there is any element of truth in this tale, then it would seem that the Campbell who was leading the [[witch-hunt]] may have been Sir Colin Campbell of Glenorchy, 2nd Baronet Campbell, who died childless in 1640. Taymouth Castle is said to be well known for its ghosts, which include a little Indian boy prince and a Green Lady. There have been numerous reports over the years of noises in the night, children too scared to sleep and visitors running out of their rooms in fright.<ref name="heraldscotland.com">http://www.heraldscotland.com/news/12759834.The_fairytale_castle_in_search_of_a_happy_ending/</ref> ==Taymouth Castle History== The landowners of Taymouth Castle, together with dates of ownership and significant events are shown here. Details of Balloch Castle and its ancestral owners, which was demolished in 1806 and replaced by Taymouth Castle are shown further down. ===John Campbell, 1st Marquess of Breadalbane (1782 - 1834)=== John Campbell inherited the title of [[John Campbell, 1st Marquess of Breadalbane|4th Earl of Breadalbane and Holland]] at the age of 19, from his third cousin, who was John Campbell, 3rd Earl of Breadalbane and Holland. In 1789, he called upon [[Robert Mylne (architect)|Robert Mylne]] to prepare plans for a new "chateau", although these plans were never carried out.<ref name=gardenhist/> It is said that he wanted to demolish Balloch Castle and build a new grander castle in its place, in order to overshadow the [[Duke of Argyll|Duke of Argyll's]] castle at [[Inveraray Castle|Inveraray]].<ref name="glendiscovery.com">http://www.glendiscovery.com/glenorchy-campbells.htm</ref> However, ten years later, he did completely transform the castle, using many architects, including [[Alexander Nasmyth]]. The main block of the old house was demolished, to be replaced from 1806, by a [[Gothic revival|Gothic]] building, to the designs of the brothers James and [[Archibald Elliot]]. The English-Italian [[Francis Bernasconi]] carried out the ornate plasterwork of the staircase and drawing rooms between 1809 and 1812.<ref name=listed/> In 1818, the old east wing was pulled down and replaced by a two-storey wing designed by [[William Atkinson (architect)|William Atkinson]].<ref name=listed/> In 1793, John Campbell formed three regiments of [[fencibles]], known as the [[Breadalbane Fencibles]] to help defend the land in time of need. He managed to raise 2,300 men, of whom 1,600 were from his own estate. At one time, the castle also had its own [[fire brigade]].<ref>The Courier and Advertiser dated 26th July 1950, Page 3</ref> In 1819, [[Leopold I of Belgium|Prince Leopold]], the future king of [[Belgium]] visited the castle and was welcomed by more than 2,000 [[Scottish Highlands|Highlanders]].<ref name="ReferenceB">The Dundee Courier dated 24 November 1948, Page 2</ref> A royal salute was fired from the battery and the pipers were playing 'Phaill Phranse', the Prince's Welcome. During his stay, the Marquess assembled 1,400 of his tenants and held a grand gala, with entertainment and 'copious libations of porter and whiskey'.<ref>The Morning Advertisor dated 22 September 1819, Page 3</ref> In 1823, J.C. Loudon described Taymouth as the 'most magnificent residence in the country ... The mountain, lawn and banks of the waters, are richly clothed with wood, through which are led magnificent walks. Of trees, the lime and larches have attained to a great size, and there is an avenue of the former 450 yards in length, scarcely equalled anywhere.'<ref name="portal.historicenvironment.scot"/> The 4th Earl, was created 1st Marquess of Breadalbane in 1831, but died in 1834. He was described as having unostentatious habits, devoting much of his time to the improvement of his 'princely' estates.<ref>The Globe dated 2nd April 1834, Page 2</ref> ===John Campbell, 2nd Marquess of Breadalbane (1834 - 1862)=== [[John Campbell, 2nd Marquess of Breadalbane]] inherited the estate, on the death of his father in 1834. During his lifetime he was Lord Glenorchy, Earl of Ormerlie and an MP for both [[Okehampton]] and [[Perthshire]].<ref name="fionamsinclair.co.uk">http://www.fionamsinclair.co.uk/genealogy/highlandclans/CampbellB.htm</ref> He also became a [[Knight of the Thistle]], a [[Order of the Black Eagle|Knight of the Black Eagle of Prussia]], [[Lord Lieutenant of Argyllshire]], and President of the [[Society of Antiquaries of Scotland]].<ref name="fionamsinclair.co.uk"/> Records show that as well as his estates in Scotland, he owned Breadalbane House in Park Lane, London.<ref>The Morning Post dated 28 December 1835, Page 3</ref> The 2nd Marquess continued with the improvements to the castle by the remodelling of William Adam's West Wing, which was enlarged and refaced to match the main block. This time, the architect was [[James Gillespie Graham]], with interiors designed by [[A. W. N. Pugin]]. The ceilings of the West Wing are described by [[Historic Scotland]] as the "finest of their period in the UK". It took an Italian painter nearly ten years to paint the ceilings with the various coats of arms of the Breadalbane family and their flags. He painted them lying on his back in rope slings.<ref name="ReferenceB"/> [[Ore]] [[smelting]] equipment was also installed into the West Wing, to smelt the specimens of ore that were occasionally found on the Breadalbane estates. The Marquess was hoping to find enough valuable minerals to pay for the huge cost of rebuilding the castle.<ref>The Perthshire Courier dated 15 October 1840, Page 3</ref> Records show that the Marquess was paid £6,630 in compensation by the British government in 1833, upon the abolition of slavery, in regard to his Hope Estate in [[Jamaica]].<ref>https://www.ucl.ac.uk/lbs/person/view/19525</ref> Records also show that he is responsible for re-introducing the [[capercaillie]] to Great Britain at Taymouth Castle, after the original stock became extinct in this country in around 1785. Our present population is descended from the 28 birds<ref>The Dundee Courier dated 30 December 1952, Page 2</ref> that he introduced from [[Sweden]] in 1837-38.<ref>The Illustrated London News dated 1st April 1977, Page 43</ref> These in turn were descended from earlier Scottish birds. In 1839, the Marquess entertained a succession of noblemen at the castle. They included [[Edward Seymour, 12th Duke of Somerset|Lord]] and [[Georgiana Seymour, Duchess of Somerset|Lady Seymour]], the [[Bertram Ashburnham, 4th Earl of Ashburnham|Earl of Ashburnham]], [[Charles Stuart, 1st Baron Stuart de Rothesay|Lord Stuart de Rothesay]] and [[Edward Littleton, 1st Baron Hatherton|Lord and Lady Hatherton]].<ref>The Morning Post dated 21 October 1839, Page 3</ref> In 1840, more noble guests stayed at the castle, including the [[William Beauclerk, 9th Duke of St Albans|Duke and Duchess of St Albans]], the [[Earl of Camperdown|Earl and Countess of Camperdown]], Lady Elizabeth Duncan, future Prime Minister [[George Hamilton-Gordon, 4th Earl of Aberdeen|Lord Haddo]], the [[Henry Cadogan, 4th Earl Cadogan|Earl and Countess of Cadogan]] and the Ladies Augusta and Honoria Cadogan.<ref>The Morning Post dated 26 October 1840, Page 3</ref> The works to the castle were complete by 1842, just in time for the first visit to Scotland by the 'youthful' [[Queen Victoria]] and [[Prince Albert]], when they stayed at Taymouth for three days. On their arrival, the castle's heavy guns fired off a royal salute, with over 200 traditionally-armed highlanders there to receive them.<ref>The Illustrated London News dated 3rd September 1842, Page 7</ref> They were duly entertained with 'lavish pomp' and it was remarked that the scene would need the pen of a poet to give any justice to the splendour. In the evening, 50,000 lamps were lit on a slope outside the castle, arranged in such a fashion as they formed the words "Welcome Victoria and Albert". Apparently, their stay cost Campbell £60,000, whilst at the time, he was said to have an annual rental income of £45,000.<ref>The Inverness Courier dated 14th September 1842, Page 3</ref> Later during their stay, the Queen was rowed up Loch Tay from [[Killin]],<ref>The Dundee Courier dated 23 March 1951, Page 2</ref> whilst Prince Albert rode out on a stag hunt over the estate. Even then, the estate extended for 100 miles from [[Aberfeldy, Perth and Kinross|Aberfeldy]] to [[Oban]].<ref>The Sphere dated 17 April 1954, Page 38</ref> The Prince's personal tally that morning was 19 roe deer, 4 1/2 brace of black game, 3 brace of grouse, 1 brace of the newly re-introduced capercaillie, 1 wood pigeon and 12 hares. Prince Albert was the first to be allowed to shoot the capercaillies, which were being so strictly preserved. The following day, Prince Albert went shooting again, with equal success. Before leaving the castle, the Queen and Prince Albert planted four ceremonial trees, on a spot just to the east of the castle. They were two [[Scots pine|Scotch Firs]] and two [[oak]] trees. Twenty four years later, the Queen who was by then a widow, stopped by anonymously. She wrote in her journal, "Here, unknown and quite in private, I gazed, not without deep inward emotion, on the scene of our reception, twenty-four years ago".<ref name="ReferenceC">The Courier and Advertiser dated 10th March 1950, Page 3</ref> John Campbell died childless in Lausanne, Switzerland in 1862 and all of his titles died with him. The estate was then passed on to his distant cousin (fourth cousin twice removed), John Campbell, who became the 6th Earl of Breadalbane and Holland.<ref>http://thepeerage.com/p2737.htm#i27362</ref> ===John Alexander Gavin Campbell, 6th Earl of Breadalbane and Holland (1862 - 1871)=== Upon the death of the 2nd Marquess of Breadalbane, there were two claimants to the estates and remaining titles. Both were only distantly related to the 2nd Marquess and could never have imagined that they could ultimately inherit. John Alexander Gavin Campbell of Glenfalloch's claim was disputed by Lieutenant Charles William Campbell of Borland. The dispute ultimately hinged on whether J A G Campbell's grandparents were legally married, and therefore the legitimacy of his father. There was apparently very little evidence on this fact, other than a letter written by his grandmother stating that they were married in 1782. However, it was ultimately decided that the marriage must have taken place, as J A G Campbell's claim was eventually ratified by the Scottish [[Court of Session]].<ref>The Sheffield Independent dated 6 June 1863, Page 6</ref> On appeal, this ruling was confirmed by a vote of two-to-one in the [[House of Lords]].<ref>The Pall Mall Gazette dated 20 March 1902, Page 3</ref> John Campbell had four children from his marriage to Mary Theresa Edwards.<ref>http://thepeerage.com/p3534.htm#i35338</ref> He gained the rank of Captain in the service of the [[Royal Scots|1st Royals]].<ref>http://www.thepeerage.com/p3534.htm#i35338</ref> He died at the age of 46 at [[Albany (London)|The Albany]], [[Piccadilly]], London.<ref>http://www.fisherfamily.me.uk/history/breadalbane.html</ref> ===Sir Gavin Campbell, 1st Marquess of Breadalbane (1871 - 1922)=== [[Gavin Campbell, 1st Marquess of Breadalbane]] served as a Lieutenant in the 4th Battalion, [[Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders]]. He also served in the [[House of Lords]] as a liberal politician. During his lifetime he amassed a number of titles and honours including; [[Knights Hospitaller|Knight of St John of Jerusalem]], [[Order of the Garter|Knight of the Garter]], [[List of baronetcies in the Baronetage of Nova Scotia|Baronet of Nova Scotia]], [[Baron Breadalbane]], Lord of Glenorchy, Benederloch, Ormelie and Weick, Viscount Tay and Paintland, [[Earl of Ormelie]] and [[Marquess of Breadalbane]]. He was also a [[County council|County Councillor]] in both Perth and Argyll, a [[Deputy Lieutenant]] of Argyll, a [[Privy Council of Scotland|Privy Councillor]], [[Keeper of the Privy Seal of Scotland]], [[Lord High Commissioner to the General Assembly of the Church of Scotland]], [[Lord-in-Waiting]] to Queen Victoria, [[Treasurer of the Household|Treasurer]] and [[Lord Steward]] of the Royal Household and an [[Aide-de-camp|ADC]] to His Majesty.<ref>Dundee Evening Telegraph dated 9th April 1919, Page 2</ref> In 1872, he married Lady Alma Imogene Graham, daughter of the [[James Graham, 4th Duke of Montrose|4th Duke of Montrose]].<ref>Dundee Evening Telegraph dated 9th April 1919, Page 2</ref> In 1877, [[Prince Arthur, Duke of Connaught and Strathearn]] visited the castle. In the same year, [[Prince Leopold, Duke of Albany]], who was the youngest son of Queen Victoria, also visited.<ref>Dundee Evening Telegraph dated 30 November 1950, Page 4</ref> In December 1879, the former [[Prime Minister]] [[William Ewart Gladstone|William Gladstone]] stayed at Taymouth Castle for three days, whilst on a speech-making tour of Scotland. The tour was said to be an unusual event, as in those days it was pretty unheard of for a leading politician to 'stump' the country in this way. It was described as 'an American-style election campaign'.<ref>The Illustrated London News dated 1st November 1979, Page 59</ref> In the same year, [[Frederick I, Grand Duke of Baden]] also visited the castle.<ref>Dundee Evening Telegraph dated 30 November 1950, Page 4</ref> Sir Gavin started the Lock Tay Steamboat Company, to enable his tenants to travel more easily to the nearest railway station, on a vessel known as the Queen of the Lake. Later, the enterprise was transformed into a popular attraction, operating pleasure cruises between Kenmore and Killin. Eventually, the ship was taken over by [[British Railways]].<ref name="ReferenceC"/> In 1881, the castle had another royal visitor, being [[Prince George, Duke of Cambridge]]. Later in 1884, King [[Oscar II of Sweden]] visited and in the following year, the Prince [[Frederick III, German Emperor|Frederick of Hanover]] visited the castle.<ref>Dundee Evening Telegraph dated 30 November 1950, Page 4</ref> In 1888, Sir Gavin was awarded the Medal of the [[Royal Humane Society]], for saving the life of a servant, whilst at the imminent risk to his own life. The servant, by the name of McLean, had fallen out of a boat and into the River Tay. At the time, the river was flooded and McLean was caught in a deep whirpool, with eddies and rocks creating even more difficulties. Sir Gavin, who was out shooting at the time, stripped off his gunbelt and dived into the river to rescue him. The medal he earned for this, along with five more of his medals, were sold at auction in 2009 for £2,700.<ref>https://www.dnw.co.uk/auction-archive/lot-archive/lot.php?department=Medals&lot_id=171379</ref> Sir Gavin was also awarded the Swedish [[Royal Order of the Seraphim|Order of the Seraphim]], conferred upon him by [[Oscar II of Sweden|King Oscar]], for his hospitality to the then Prince [[Gustaf VI Adolf of Sweden|Gustavus Adolphus]], when he came to the UK to marry [[Princess Margaret of Connaught]] in 1905.<ref>Dundee Evening Telegraph dated 6th August 1920, Page 2</ref> When he inherited his titles in 1871, his estate was still nearly half a million acres in size.<ref name="glendiscovery.com"/> It contained 'The Heart of Scotland', a thick wood of fir trees in the shape of a heart.<ref>Dundee Evening Telegraph dated 9th April 1919, Page 2</ref> Unfortunately, throughout Sir Gavin's tenure at Taymouth, he managed to lose most of this land. His worsening financial problems, were said to be due to an extravagant lifestyle, "bad management and his gambling addiction".<ref name="heraldscotland.com"/> His mountainous debts finally forced him to put the castle and its remaining 60,000 acres up for sale in 1920. Included in the sale were a number of farms, hotels, private houses and shooting and fishing rights.<ref>The Dundee Courier dated 6 August 1920, Page 3</ref> The sale was achieved in 1921, when the castle was sold for £20,000<ref>Edinburgh Evening News dated 12 May 1923, Page 5</ref> to a syndicate, who intended to turn the estate into a hotel complex.<ref>The Dundee Evening Telegraph dated 24 April 1922, Page 6</ref> However, the completion date was set for May 1922 and the Campbell's continued to reside in the castle for the time being. In March 1922, the Marquess and Marchioness duly said farewell to the castle forever, after fifty years of occupation, and moved out to their other home in Craig, [[Dalmally]].<ref>The Dundee Evening Telegraph dated 24 March 1922, Page 5</ref> Sir Gavin died childless, very shortly afterwards, in October 1922 and most of his titles died with him.<ref>http://thepeerage.com/p15045.htm#i150444</ref> However, even though every last acre of the original half a million acre estate had been sold off, there were still three more Earls of Breadalbane and Holland. The 10th and last Earl was John Romer Boreland Campbell, who died childless in 1995. Following his death, the title has remained dormant.<ref name="glendiscovery.com"/> ===Taymouth Castle Hotel Company LTD (1922 - 1940)=== At the time of their purchase, the hotel company from [[Glasgow]], which included the MacTaggart family,<ref name="heraldscotland.com"/> also bought 520 acres of adjoining land, which brought the estate back to around 2,000 acres. It was declared by the company that they intended to convert the castle into a [[Hydrotherapy|hydropathic]] hotel, along with opening a brand new golf course on its lands. The company also acquired fishing rights on [[Loch Tay]] and part of the [[River Tay]] and shooting rights on Drumhill.<ref>The Dundee Evening Telegraph dated 24 April 1922, Page 6</ref> At the same time, there was a huge auction at the castle, in which all of its furniture and effects were sold. The newspaper article reporting the event, said that 'the things that gave the castle its life and history, will be scattered to the four winds of heaven'.<ref>The Dundee Courier dated 22nd April 1922, Page 3</ref> The auction realised total sales of £24,000, with half of that amount being paid by the new hotel owners, to retain furniture in the castle.<ref>The Scotsman dated 1st May 1922, Page 7</ref> The hydro hotel opened on 30 June 1923, boasting around 100 bedrooms. Since buying the castle, its facilities had been greatly improved, including central heating and electricity being installed throughout. The hotel also offered music and dancing, a grass riding track and had four [[en tout cas]] tennis courts and a covered badminton court. They possessed a fleet of motor vehicles, offering drives to places of interest and steamer excursions on Loch Tay. The golf course had been finished and there was of course fly fishing. At the time of opening, they hadn't quite managed to offer shooting, but they had the shooting rights for Drummond Hill, on which 30 stags had been killed in the previous year.<ref>The Motherwell Times dated 6th July 1923, Page 8</ref> Despite good patronage, the Taymouth Castle Hotel Company LTD were forced into voluntary liquidation in March 1926. The blame was put on the high cost of all the alterations necessary to convert the castle. It was disclosed that as there were good Easter bookings, the hotel would remain open for the time being.<ref>The Dundee Evening Telegraph date 29 March 1926, Page 9</ref> The hotel eventually closed for the winter on 30 September 1926, with the liquidators having already sold off portions of the lands, dramatically reducing the size of the estate.<ref>Dundee Evening Telegraph dated 8th December 1926, Page 3</ref> The hotel reopened on 1 June 1927, for the summer season. The advertised rate was 18s to 25s per person per day.<ref>The Yorkshire Post and Leeds Intelligencer dated 18th May 1927, Page 1</ref> In September 1927, the [[Yi Un|Prince]] and [[Yi Bangja|Princess]] Gin Ri of Korea visited the castle. Whilst at that time a colony of Japan, the prince was the son of the late [[Gojong of Korea|Emperor of Korea]] and the princess was a cousin of the [[Empress Kōjun|Empress of Japan]].<ref>The Dundee Courier dated 1st September 1927, Page 10</ref> The following year the hotel reopened for the 1928 season and its long-term future was secured, when the castle was bought by a 'well known London combine'. The new owners declared that the castle would continue as a 'hydro'.<ref>Dundee Evening Telegraph dated 1st May 1928, Page 3</ref> ===Taymouth Castle Hospital (1940 - 1948)=== After the outbreak of the [[Second World War]], use of the castle was requisitioned by the War Office, to help with the war effort. From 1940, it became known as the No. 1 Polish General Hospital, or otherwise as the Taymouth Castle Hospital. It was the chief polish hospital in the country and boasted some of the finest and most up-to-date equipment, with its operating theatres and X-Ray machines.<ref>The Dundee Courier dated 10th December 1947, Page 2</ref> Also, in April 1940, the castle advertised that the golf course and Policy Parks were available for let, for sheep and cattle grazing.<ref>Perthshire Advertiser dated 17 April 1940, Page 3</ref> It was later noted that despite having its own golf course, the wounded polish servicemen showed no interest in golf, although they were enthusiastic footballers.<ref>The Scotsman dated 27 July 1950, Page 6</ref> Over the eight years of its use as a hospital, thousands of polish patients were treated there, with its biggest influx after the battle of [[Cassino]], when over 200 polish casualties arrived.<ref>Dundee Courier dated 10th December 1947, Page 2</ref> At its height, it had 1200 beds and 200 staff. Despite still being under the control of the War Office, its use as a hospital came to an end in December 1947, with the remaining polish patients being disbursed to hospitals in England. The chairman of the owning hotel company said that he thought that it would be a year or two before the castle could be re-opened as a hotel. He said that the lack of tradesman would be a big obstacle to its redecoration and renovation.<ref>The Dundee Courier dated 10th December 1947, Page 2</ref> Severe damage to one of the west towers, from a fire in 1946, would also have to be repaired. However, during its time as a hospital, care had been taken to protect the castle's magnificent carved oak walls and doors. These had been boarded up, using cardboard and plywood. Similar precautions had been taken to protect the marble mantelpieces and stained glass windows.<ref>Dundee Courier dated 10th December 1947, Page 2</ref> Seventy five [[Nissen huts]] were removed from the castle grounds.<ref>The Dundee Courier dated 10th December 1947, Page 2</ref> However, their foundations can still be seen today. ===Civil Defence Corps Training School (1949 - 1968)=== In February 1949, the government formed the [[Civil Defence Corps]], which was a civilian volunteer organisation, which could take control of areas of the country in times of national emergency, such as after a nuclear attack. In a joint announcement by the [[Home Office]] and the [[Scottish Office]], it was declared that Taymouth Castle was to be used as one of three training centres in Scotland, which would teach instructors in how to train a much bigger volunteer force.<ref>The Scotsman dated 18 February 1949, Page 6</ref> Alterations were made to the castle, which was designed to train between 100 and 150 men and women at a time.<ref>The Scotsman dated 3rd June 1949, Page 5</ref> The cost of these alterations was finally put at £126,000, way past its original budget of £75,700.<ref>The Dundee Courier dated 21 March 1950, Page 3</ref> When it was opened in December 1950 by the [[Scottish Secretary]] [[Hector McNeil]], it was described as the most up-to-date in the world.<ref>Dundee Evening Telegraph dated 8th December 1950, Page 4</ref> The centre also included a mock '[[The Blitz|blitzed]] village', for trainees to practice in.<ref>Dundee Courier dated 12 September 1950, Page 4</ref> The village was built and then partially demolished, to provide defense volunteers with practical rescue training. Roofs were said to lie at 'drunken angles', walls gaped open, timber beams were scorched with fire; and all laid out to conform with Scottish types of architecture. The village was so realistic that the visiting [[James Henderson-Stewart|Sir James Henderson-Stewart]], Under-[[Secretary of State for Scotland]] said that there was a staggering contrast between the beauty of the castle and the scenes of ruin, bringing home more forcibly the devastation of war and the need to be ready for any emergency.<ref>Arbroath Herald and Advertiser for the Montrose Burghs dated 1st August 1952, Page 3</ref> As part of their training, the volunteers were given advanced instruction in [[Nuclear weapon|atomic]], [[Chemical warfare|chemical]] and [[Biological warfare|biological]] warfare.<ref>The Fifeshire Advertiser dated 3rd February 1951, Page 3</ref> By 1956, the Corps had grown to 330,000 personnel. However, the Corps was eventually disbanded in 1968, after a change of thinking in how to deal with nuclear attacks. ===Boarding School (1968 - 1979)=== After it ceased to be a Civil Defence Corps training centre in 1968, Taymouth Castle was turned into a boarding school for the children of American servicemen, which operated until 1979. However, its role in national defence didn't end there. From 1968, it was also one of the designated locations for plan [[PYTHON]], the plan for [[continuity of government]] in the event of nuclear war.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.dorsetecho.co.uk/news/15053819.The_top_secret_story_of_just_how_important_Portland_could_have_been_in_the_Cold_War/|title=If nuclear war had broken out between Russia and the west, HMS Osprey on Portland would have been a remote hideaway for the government|publisher=Dorset Echo|date=28 January 2017}}</ref> The plan, which was classified as TOP SECRET was that in the event of a nuclear attack, the government and other essential personnel could be dispersed around the country, to secret and protected locations. Taymouth Castle was chosen as one of these sites. A government memo of 1968 stated that “the details of these dispersal plans [Python] are among the most vital of Britain’s state secrets.” Many [[Whitehall]] officials didn't even know about it. It is not known when Taymouth Castle ceased to be considered as one of these secret locations, but the three associated [[Caledonian MacBrayne|CalMac]] support ships, which were capable of acting as floating nuclear bunkers, were sold by CalMac in the 1980s. These ships operated from day-to-day as normal commercial car ferries, but had been designed and built in such a way that if needed, they could be used as [[radiation]] resistant transport and decontamination chambers.<ref>http://www.heraldscotland.com/news/15039649.How_Scotland_and_three_CalMac_ferries_played_a_crucial_part_in_nuclear_planning/</ref> ===Speech and Drama School (1982)=== In September 1981, it was advertised that the Taymouth Castle Residential School of Speech and Drama was starting classes in January 1982. Auditions were being held for three courses, which were a One-year Stage course, a Two-year Diploma and Stage course and a One-year course in [[puppetry]].<ref>The Stage dated 24 September 1981, Page 12</ref> At this time, nothing further is known about those courses, but the castle is known to have been closed and empty since around that time. The golf course continued to be operated separately, but this too is currently closed, whilst alterations are being made to the course.<ref name=gardenhist/> ===Restoration plans (1982 - date)=== Despite its many changes of use and its requisitioning by the government, through the war years and beyond, legal ownership of the castle was still retained by the MacTaggart family, who had first turned the castle into a hotel in 1922. However, they had been unable to make any real commercial use of the castle since the boarding school for children of American servicemen closed in 1979. Throughout the 1990s, the family had been unsuccessfully trying to sell the estate, with [[Madonna (entertainer)|Madonna]] and [[Cher]] both being initially interested. In 1995, the castle and estate were on the market with a £5.5m asking price.<ref name="buildingsatrisk.org.uk"/> By the year 2000, the castle was suffering badly from leaks and rot and the MacTaggarts knew that they needed to find a buyer quickly, if there was to be any hope of saving it. They eventually sold the estate to a building consortium in 2005 for £12m. At the time of purchase, plans to redevelop the castle as a "six-star" hotel with 150 rooms had already been approved by Perth and Kinross Council.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/scotland/3533134.stm |title= Council backs castle hotel plans | publisher = BBC News | date= 4 August 2004}}</ref> However, since then, due to the huge costs involved and the need to find suitable investment, progress has been slow, with work starting and stalling. However, many millions of pounds have already been spent in preventing further deterioration of the castle and upon its ongoing conversion.<ref>https://www.thecourier.co.uk/news/local/perth-kinross/130102/taymouth-castle-restoration-in-serious-financial-trouble/</ref> By May 2006, the main buildings were stabilised,<ref>{{cite news| title= Castle resort work ahead of plan | url =http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/scotland/tayside_and_central/4997710.stm | publisher= BBC News | date=19 May 2006}}</ref> with further restoration continuing in the following years. These included new windows, extensive refurbishment to the state rooms and a new roof. Despite the difficulties in completing the project, one of the developers said in 2008 that "We have spent millions of pounds saving one of Scotland's finest, most beautiful properties and we are proud of that. The east wing and the west wing were totally derelict and the seven principal rooms have been saved, all under the full watchful eye of Historic Scotland."<ref name="heraldscotland.com"/> By 2015, work began again apace, creating luxury hotel suites under the banner of Taymouth Castle Estate.<ref>http://www.taymouth-castle.com/</ref> It is stated that some of the rooms are to be sold on a [[timeshare]] basis.<ref name="dailymail.co.uk"/> By 2016, enough work had been completed at the castle for it to operate as an events centre, hosting a number of weddings, corporate events and banquets.<ref>http://www.taymouthcastleresidences.com/owners/4592285456</ref> In October 2016, an Open Day was held at the castle, to promote it further as a wedding venue for 2017.<ref>https://www.scottishweddingdirectory.co.uk/taymouth-castle-open-day-october-win-hire-of-venue/</ref> The current plans for the hotel are divided into three phases. Phase I, due for completion by July 2017, will include the completion of all of the public areas of the castle and the refurbishment of 65 of the hotel bedrooms. The golf course will also reopen, with a pro-golf shop. Phase II, due by summer 2018, will include the refurbishment of a further 110 hotel bedrooms and the development of two spas. The hotel is planned to open in the summer of 2018. Guest facilities will include the remodelled Championship Golf Course, a pamper spa, an equestrian centre and fishing on the River Tay. Phase III, to be confirmed, will be the development of luxurious 2, 3 and 4 bedroom homes around part of the estate.<ref>http://www.uavend.com/our-projects/taymouth-castle/</ref> ==Early History of Balloch Castle== [[File:Taymouth Castle James Norie.jpg|thumb|300px|Taymouth Castle painted in 1733 by James Norie, showing William Adam's improvements to the house and gardens]] The landowners of Balloch Castle, together with dates of ownership and significant events are shown below:- ===Sir Colin Campbell of Glenorchy (1550 - 1583)=== Sir Colin Campbell of [[Glen Orchy|Glenorchy]], otherwise known as 'Grey Colin', because of his white hair and long flowing beard, became [[laird]] of Glenorchy upon the death of his older brother John, in 1550. One of his first actions as laird, was to evict<ref name="glendiscovery.com"/> the Clan Gregor from Balloch (now Kenmore), at the east end of Loch Tay. In 1552,<ref name="heraldscotland.com"/> he consolidated his position and built a [[tower houses in Britain and Ireland|tower house]] there, known as Balloch Castle. Balloch means 'the house at the narrow pass'.<ref>Falkirk Herald dated 1st October 1949, Page 8</ref> Sir Colin is said to have chosen the site of the castle in a novel manner. He was apparently instructed in a dream to found the castle on the spot where he first heard a blackbird sing, whilst making his way down the [[strath]] of the Tay.<ref>Dundee Evening Telegraph dated 1st May 1928, Page 3</ref> Later, in 1787, [[Robert Burns]] described the beauty of Balloch Castle and its surrounding lands in verse, as follows:- : ''The Tay meandering sweet in infant pride,'' : ''The Palace rising on its verdant side,'' : ''The lawns, wood fringed, in Nature's native taste,'' : ''The hillocks dropped in Nature's native haste...''<ref>Falkirk Herald dated 1st October 1949, Page 8</ref> The castle was the seat of [[Clan Campbell]] whose lands, at the height of their powers, extended over 100 miles from Taymouth to the west coast of Scotland.<ref name="taymouth-castle.com"/> Another source quotes their estate as encompassing 437,696 acres.<ref name="gateway-to-the-scottish-highlands.com">http://www.gateway-to-the-scottish-highlands.com/HistoricalKenmore.html</ref> Sir Colin rapidly expanded his territory during his lifetime, also building or enlarging several castles.<ref name="glendiscovery.com"/> There was a long-running [[feud]] between the Campbells and the [[Clan Gregor|Gregor clan]], over the lands said to have been seized<ref name="scotsman.com"/> by the Campbells from them. This bitter and violent feud ran from 1562 until 1569, when their clan chief Gregor Roy, 10th Chief MacGregor, was captured by Sir Colin whilst visiting his wife. On 7 April 1570, after securing the consent of the [[James Douglas, 4th Earl of Morton|Regent Morton]], Sir Colin personally beheaded Gregor at Balloch Castle, in the presence of the [[John Stewart, 4th Earl of Atholl|Earl of Atholl]], the Justice Clerk. Gregor's wife, who also witnessed her husband's execution, wrote a bitter poem about the affair, called 'Griogal Cridhe'. This has been described as 'Surely one of the greatest poems ever made in Britain'.<ref>http://www.ed.ac.uk/divinity/research/resources/breadalbane/historical-background/clan-campbell/macgregor-feud</ref> The fighting continued on until 1570, even more bloody than before, with the Gregor Clan determined to avenge their chief's death. However, a settlement was finally reached between the two clans in the winter of 1570. Sir Colin claimed to have 'the power of pit and gallows', which was the right to imprison and execute.<ref name="scotsman.com"/> In the [[Taymouth Castle#The Black Book of Taymouth|Black Book of Taymouth]], Sir Colin was described as a great 'justiciar' of his time, who sustained the deadly feud with the Gregor clan and executed many notable lymmars (rogues).<ref name="fionamsinclair.co.uk"/> [[James VI]] visited Balloch Castle in August 1582, tipping the gardener 40 shillings. However, only a few days later, the king was seized at the [[Ruthven Raid]].<ref>National Archives of Scotland E22/5 August 1582</ref> Sir Colin had ten children from two marriages, dying in April 1583.<ref>http://www.thepeerage.com/p10941.htm#i109403</ref> ===Sir Duncan Campbell of Glenorchy, 1st Baronet Campbell (1583 - 1631)=== Sir Duncan Campbell was knighted in 1590, was declared MP for Argyllshire in 1593 and held the office of Hereditary Sheriff of Perthshire for life. He was also created 1st Baronet Campbell of Nova Scotia, in 1625. Sir Duncan had 23 children from three marriages, dying in 1631.<ref>http://www.thepeerage.com/p2501.htm#i25001</ref> It is said that he married a low-born lady as his second wife, but quickly regretted it. The traditional tale is that he had her locked in an underground vault, whilst he courted Elizabeth Sinclair, the daughter of the [[Lord Sinclair|5th Lord Sinclair]]. Wary that he might already be married, Elizabeth made him swear that he had no other wife and he solemnly swore on the cross of his sword that he 'had no wife above ground'. She did not realise the deception and they were indeed married. His other wife was ultimately released from the vault, after she had made a declaration that she was not his wife.<ref>The Bradford Observer dated 12 September 1861, Page 7</ref> He had several nicknames, the first being 'Duncan of the (seven) Castles', as he was renowned for building them. His other nickname was 'Black Duncan'. He had been appointed by the King to keep the peace between the feuding clans in Argyll and Perthshire and was accordingly allowed to maintain a large force of armed soldiers to support him. However, he had a reputation for causing trouble, rather than stopping it and was said to be more interested in using his power to acquire extra land for himself. During his lifetime, he therefore managed to significantly enlarge the family's estate, by 'fair means or foul'.<ref>In Famed Breadalbane by William Gillies</ref> He also extended Balloch Castle.<ref name="glendiscovery.com"/> In April 1603, King [[James VI and I]] outlawed the [[Clan Gregor]], following the [[Battle of Glen Fruin]], in which the Gregors killed between 200 and 300 men of the [[Clan Colquhoun]]. The name Gregor or MacGregor was abolished and it became entirely legal to kill anyone of that name and seize his property. Over the next ten years, over 100 Gregors were slain and their lands given to the Campbells.<ref>https://www.visitscotland.com/info/see-do/clan-gregor-macgregor-p1475131</ref> It was said that Sir Duncan was instrumental in this and got most of their leaders killed or hanged.<ref>The Bradford Observer dated 12 September 1861, Page 7</ref> One of Sir Duncan's castles was [[Finlarig Castle]], built in 1629. There is a pit in the courtyard, which can still be seen, where nobles were taken from the castle dungeons, through an underground passage, to be beheaded under the watchful gaze of Sir Duncan's men. Commoners were hanged from a nearby oak tree.<ref name="perthshire-scotland.co.uk">http://www.perthshire-scotland.co.uk/clans-campbell.htm</ref> The beheading axe was later put on display at Taymouth Castle, until it was finally turned into a hotel in 1922.<ref name="fionamsinclair.co.uk"/> Sir Duncan was also said to be an astute manager of his estate. Not only did he build and repair castles, he also introduced livestock and planted woodlands. He ordered Drummond Hill to be planted with oak, birch and pine, creating Scotland's first managed forest.<ref>http://www.visitaberfeldy.co.uk/component/sobipro/3347-Drummond-Hill?Itemid=0</ref> ===Sir Colin Campbell of Glenorchy, 2nd Baronet Campbell (1631 - 1640)=== In comparison with his father, [[Sir Colin Campbell, 2nd Baronet|Sir Colin Campbell, 2nd Baronet Campbell]], also the 8th Laird of Glenorchy, was a much more peaceful character and was known as a patron of the arts. As well as repairing and extending the family castles, including Balloch Castle, he also employed several famous artists to paint portraits for them, including [[George Jamesone]]. He also travelled extensively and was a collector of fine furniture and paintings. Sir Colin was married for many years, but died childless, in 1640. He did however, foster [[Archibald Campbell, 9th Earl of Argyll]].<ref>http://www.thepeerage.com/p15040.htm#i150395</ref> Archibald Campbell was ultimately executed in 1685, like his father, on the [[Maiden (beheading)|Maiden]] in Edinburgh. He faced his execution with calmness and good humour, joking on the scaffold that the guillotine, as his "inlet to glory" was "the sweetest maiden he had ever kissed".<ref>Willcock, A Scots Earl in Covenanting Times, Page 421</ref> ===Sir Robert Campbell of Glenorchy, 3rd Baronet Campbell (1640 - 1657)=== Brother of the 2nd Baronet, he was also known as Robert Campbell of Glenfalloch. He was MP for Argyllshire between 1639 and 1641 and from 1643 to 1649.<ref>http://www.thepeerage.com/p15040.htm#i150399</ref> Sir Robert lived through one of the stormiest and most trying periods in Highland history, during which time his estates were laid waste during the [[Scotland in the Wars of the Three Kingdoms|Scottish Civil War]], by the [[James Graham, 1st Marquess of Montrose|1st Marquess of Montrose]] and his [[Royalist]] forces. The [[Taymouth Castle#The Black Book of Taymouth|Black Book of Taymouth]] states that in 1644 and 1645, his whole lands and estates, between the Ford of Lyon and the Point of Lesmore were burned and destroyed.<ref>Bradford Observer dated Thursday 12 September 1861, Page 7</ref> These actions left Campbell with huge debts.<ref>In Famed Breadalbane by William Gillies.</ref> One of the key battles was the [[Battle of Inverlochy (1645)|Battle of Inverlochy]] in 1645, which came shortly after Montrose had raided through the Taymouth area. Montrose had decided to attack the [[Covenanter]] forces which were under the command of [[Sir Duncan Campbell of Auchinbreck]]. The Campbell army were routed and of its 2,000 men, about 1,500 were killed during a running battle over 14 miles of countryside. Their commander, Auchinbreck, was captured and beheaded by [[Alasdair Mac Colla]], who commanded part of the Royalist forces. Although they won this battle, Montrose suffered a heavy defeat seven months later at the [[Battle of Philiphaugh]] and his forces were ultimately crushed five years later, at the [[Battle of Carbisdale]].<ref>http://montrose-society.ndo.co.uk/batin.htm</ref> Sir Robert had 16 children from his marriage with Isabel MacIntosh, dying in 1657. ===Sir John Campbell of Glenorchy, 4th Baronet Campbell (1657 - 1677)=== Sir John Campbell was Commissioner of Supply and Excise for Argyll and Perth and succeeded to the title of 4th Baronet Campbell, of Glenorchy. He gained the rank of Colonel in the service of the Perthshire of Foot and was MP for Argyllshire between 1661 and 1663.<ref>http://www.thepeerage.com/p15041.htm#i150402</ref> He had 31 children from three wives and died in 1677. ===John Campbell, 1st Earl of Breadalbane and Holland (1677 - 1717)=== [[John Campbell, 1st Earl of Breadalbane and Holland|John Campbell]], known as 'Slippery John', was created [[Earl of Breadalbane and Holland|1st Earl of Breadalbane and Holland]] in 1681. In 1692, he played a key role in the [[Massacre of Glencoe]], by instructing a relative, [[Robert Campbell of Glenlyon]], to carry it out.<ref name="fionamsinclair.co.uk"/><ref name="perthshire-scotland.co.uk"/> Thirty Eight McDonald's from the [[MacDonald of Glencoe|Clan McDonald of Glencoe]] were killed by their own guests and another 40 women and children died of [[Hypothermia|exposure]], after their homes were burned. Campbell also took part in the abortive [[Cavalier|royalist]] uprising under [[John Campbell, 1st Earl of Loudoun]] in 1654 and was also implicated in the [[Sir James Montgomery, 4th Baronet|Montgomery Plot]], a [[Jacobitism|Jocobite]] scheme to restore [[James II of England|King James II and VII]] to the thrones of England and Scotland. In 1692, he was imprisoned for a time in [[Edinburgh Castle]] for his involvement in negotiations between Jacobite chiefs. However, he was released after it was discovered that he was acting with the knowledge of [[William III of England|King William III]]. In 1672, Campbell acquired as payment of debts, the estates and titles of George Sinclair, 6th Earl of Caithness, which included the parish of [[Wick, Caithness|Wick]] and the castles of [[Castle Sinclair Girnigoe|Girnigoe]], [[Ackergill Tower|Ackergill]] and [[Keiss Castle|Keiss]]. He assumed the title of [[Earl of Caithness]], although his right to these titles and lands were disputed by George Sinclair of Keiss, first cousin to the 6th Earl of Caithness. Sinclair lay [[siege]] to Girnigoe Castle, damaging it so badly that it has never been inhabited since. In a counter-attack, Campbell took his army and marched on Sinclair, to fight what was to become known as the [[Battle of Altimarlach]]. Campbell's force easily routed Sinclair's army, whose men fled across the [[Wick River|River Wick]]. But, a large number were killed and it is said that so many lay slain, that Campbell's soldiers were able to cross the river over their bodies, without getting their feet wet. Despite this strategic victory, George Sinclair later won his argument in court in 1681 and claimed the title of Earl of Caithness and the lands. However, Campbell was compensated for the loss of these, by [[Charles II of England|King Charles II]] and the [[Privy Council of Scotland]] elevating him to Lord of [[Glen Orchy|Glenorchy]], Benederaloch, Ormelie and Wick, Viscount of Tay and Paintland, and 1st Earl of [[Breadalbane, Scotland|Breadalbane]] and [[Parts of Holland|Holland]].<ref>The John O'Groat Journal dated 16th April 1841, Page 4</ref> It was here that Campbell's piper composed the clan's famous [[pibroch]], 'Bodach na Briogais', which ridicules the Sinclairs. The event is also commemorated in the famous song 'The Campbells are Coming'.<ref name="fionamsinclair.co.uk"/> Many people refer to the Battle of Altimarlach as the last clan battle in Scotland and it would seem that it was the last true clan battle. However, in 1689 there was a later fierce battle at [[Battle of Maol Ruadh|Mullroy]], [[Kilmonivaig]], when the [[Clan MacDonald of Keppoch|Macdonalds of Keppoch]] fought and defeated the [[Clan Mackintosh|MacIntoshes]], over ownership of [[Glen Roy]]. However, the MacIntoshes had government support and part of their army was made up of government troops, making it more of a government action than a true clan battle.<ref>The Ludlow Advertiser dated 12 August 1899, Page 6</ref> It is said that the people of Wick, hated Campbell so much that they caused him no end of trouble. Wearied by these incessant vexations, he divided Wick into 62 portions in 1690 and sold them all. At one time, King William III entrusted Campbell with £20,000, a huge sum of money, to use it to achieve peace between some warring Highland Chiefs. However, rather than spend the money, he managed to negotiate a deal between them. When asked to account for the £20,000, he replied "Gentlemen - the money is spent, the Highlands are at peace, and that is the only way of accounting among friends".<ref>The Inverness Courier dated 14 September 1842, Page 3</ref> An early fan of golf, Slippery John is recorded as buying a pair of golf clubs for his children in 1672 and having one club repaired at a cost of four shillings.<ref>http://www.scottishgolfhistory.org/news/a-new-reference-to-golf-in-1460/</ref> The [[Taymouth Castle#The Black Book of Taymouth|Black Book of Taymouth]], the history of the Breadalbanes, published by the [[John Campbell, 2nd Marquess of Breadalbane|2nd Marquess of Breadalbane]] states that in 1681, Gilleasba, chief of the MacDonalds of Keppoch, gave a bond of [[manrent]] to Sir John, promising that none of his clan or his people would commit robbery on his lands. In 1715, Campbell sent 500 of his men to join the [[John Erskine, Earl of Mar (1675–1732)|Earl of Mar]] in his Jacobite uprising against the new king, [[George I of Great Britain|George I]].<ref name="fionamsinclair.co.uk"/> Campbell had four children from three marriages, dying in 1717.<ref>http://www.thepeerage.com/p15041.htm#i150406</ref> Shortly before his death, he was described by a Government agent by the name of Mackay in this way; "He has the gravity of a Spaniard, is as cunning as a fox, wise as a serpent, and is as slippery as an eel".<ref>The Inverness Courier dated 14 September 1842, Page 3</ref> ===John Campbell, 2nd Earl of Breadalbane and Holland (1717 - 1752)=== In 1720, [[John Campbell, 2nd Earl of Breadalbane and Holland]] commissioned [[William Adam (architect)|William Adam]] to remodel the castle and lay out extensive formal gardens.<ref name=gardenhist>{{cite web |url=http://data.historic-scotland.gov.uk/pls/htmldb/f?p=2400:15:0::::GARDEN:GDL00354#history |title=Taymouth Castle: Site History |work=An Inventory of Gardens and Designed Landscapes in Scotland |publisher=Historic Scotland |accessdate=11 January 2013}}</ref> Adam's design included six radiating avenues, each over a mile long, which converged on the castle. Elaborate gardens and orchards were also planted on both sides of the Castle. To the south, Adam planted an avenue of trees in the shape of a D. On the banks of the river, he planted two long avenues of [[lime (fruit)|lime trees]]. These are known as the North and South Terraces. In 1739, Jan Griffer was brought in to make further changes to the gardens. The long radiating avenues were removed and some new [[pavilions]] were built. Griffer also planted a lot more individual trees, which made the overall design of the castle less formal. Further changes that John Campbell made during his lifetime were the removal of the formal gardens, the remaining avenue and part of the terrace. He also moved the orchard to the west of the ridge where the Dairy now stands and moved the walled-garden to the north-east of the castle. He also planted woodland on Drummond Hill and Craig Hill.<ref name="portal.historicenvironment.scot"/> John Campbell was Lord Lieutenant of Perthshire. During the [[Jacobite rising of 1745]], it was said that he sent a thousand men into the field to fight.<ref name="fionamsinclair.co.uk"/> He had three children from his marriage to Henrietta Villiers, dying in 1752.<ref>http://www.thepeerage.com/p2595.htm#i25949</ref> ===John Campbell, 3rd Earl of Breadalbane and Holland (1752 - 1782)=== Later, [[John Campbell, 3rd Earl of Breadalbane and Holland]] oversaw further changes in the 1750s, including building a handsome bridge over the River Tay and also Kenmore's church, which dates from 1760, replacing the earlier church of 1579.<ref name="gateway-to-the-scottish-highlands.com"/> By the 1780s, the formal gardens had been replaced with a [[picturesque]] landscape in the manner of [[Stourhead]] and [[Painshill Park]].<ref name=gardenhist/> The main road had been moved to halfway up Taymouth Hill and the entrance drive re-aligned. John was [[Lord of the Admiralty]] and an ambassador to the Danish and Russian courts.<ref name="fionamsinclair.co.uk"/> He had four children from his two marriages, dying in 1782.<ref>http://www.thepeerage.com/p2722.htm#i27219</ref> However, he had no surviving male heir and so his direct line ended, with the title 4th Earl of Breadalbane and Holland going to his third cousin, John Campbell, 1st Marquess of Breadalbane. The 1st Marquess went on to demolish Balloch Castle and build Taymouth Castle in its place. ==References== {{reflist}} ==External links== {{Commons category|Taymouth Castle}} *[http://www.taymouth-castle.com/ Taymouth Castle Estate] *[http://www.breadalbane.com/places/castle.htm Taymouth Castle], Breadalbane community website {{Clan Campbell}} [[Category:Castles in Perth and Kinross]] [[Category:Category A listed buildings in Perth and Kinross]] [[Category:Listed castles in Scotland]] [[Category:Inventory of Gardens and Designed Landscapes]] [[Category:James Gillespie Graham buildings]] [[Category:Country houses in Perth and Kinross]]'