Strongholds of the Border Reivers
Fortifications of the Anglo-Scottish Border 1296–1603
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About this book
In the year 1296, Edward I of England launched a series of vicious raids across the Anglo-Scottish Border in his attempt to annexe Scotland. The Scots retaliated and the two countries were plunged into 300 years of war in which the Borderland became the frontline and raiding, or 'reiving,' encouraged by both sides, became a way of life. Keith Durham examines the Border fortresses, ranging from small, well-defended castles to imposing tower houses, or 'peles,' and a variety of fortified farmhouses known as 'bastles.' He also investigates the many churches that were strengthened against attack and in times of trouble served as sanctuaries for their congregations. Packed with full-colour photographs and detailed cut-away artwork, this is an ideal historical commentary for any tourist visiting the sites that are dotted across the whole of the Border region.
Contents
Introduction • Chronology • Design and development • Border fortifications • Principles of defence • Tour of a tower house – Smailholm • Everyday life in the tower house • Border strongholds at war • The fate of the castles, tower houses, bastles and defensible churches • Visiting the sites today • Glossary • Bibliography • Index
Paperback; March 2008; 64 pages; ISBN: 9781846031977