Magnus III of the Isle of Man
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Magnús Óláfsson was a mid 13th century Manx-Hebridean king, the son of Óláfr Guðrøðarson, King of the Isles. Magnús and Óláfr descended from a long line of Norse-Gaelic kings who ruled the Isle of Mann (Mann) and parts of the Hebrides
. Several leading members of the Crovan dynasty
, such as Óláfr, styled themselves "King of the Isles". However, Magnús and his brothers styled themselves "King of Mann and the Isles". Although Kings in their own right, leading members of the Crovan dynasty paid tribute to the Kings of Norway and generally recognised their nominal overlordship of Mann and the Hebrides.
In 1237, Óláfr died and was succeeded by his elder son, Haraldr, who later drowned in 1248. The kingship was then taken up by his brother, Rögnvaldr Óláfsson. After a reign of only weeks, Rögnvaldr was slain and the kingship was taken up by Haraldr Guðrøðarson, a descendant of Óláfr's half-brother and deadly rival, Rögnvaldr Guðrøðarson, King of the Isles. After a short reign, this Haraldr was removed from power by his overlord, Hákon Hákonarson, King of Norway
. In Haraldr's absence, Magnús and a relation of his, Eógan mac Donnchada, King in the Isles
, unsuccessfully attempted to conquer Mann. A few years later, Magnús successfully made his return to the island and was proclaimed king.
In the 1240s, Alexander II, King of Scots attempted to purchase the Isles from Hákon. Later in 1261, his son and successor, Alexander III, King of Scots, attempted the same. Hákon's response to Scottish aggression in the Hebrides was to organise a massive fleet to re-assert Norwegian authority. In the summer of 1263, the fleet sailed down through the Hebrides. Although it gained in strength as made its way south, the Norwegian King received only lukewarm support from his Norse-Gaelic vassals—only Dubgall mac Ruaidrí and his close relatives, and Magnús himself, came out whole-heartedly. At one point during the campaign, Hákon's Norse-Gaelic lords were tasked with raiding deep into the Lennox district
, while the main Norwegian force was occupied with Battle of Largs
, a series of skirmishes against the Scots, near what is today Largs
. Following this action, Hákon's demoralised fleet returned home having accomplished little. Not long after Hákon's departure and death, Alexander launched a punitive expedition into the Hebrides, and threatened Mann with the same. Magnús's subsequent submission to the Scots King, and the homage
rendered for his lands, symbolises the failure of Hákon's campaign, and marks the complete collapse of Norwegian influence in the Isles.
Magnús, the last reigning king of his dynasty, died at Rushen Castle in 1265, and was buried at the Abbey of St Mary, Rushen
. At the time of his death, he was married to Máire, daughter of Eógan. In the year after his death, Mann and the Isles were formally ceded by King of Norway to the King of Scots. Ten years after Magnús' death, Guðrøðr, a bastard son of his attempted to establish himself as king on Mann. Guðrøðr's revolt was quickly and brutally crushed by Scottish forces, and the island remained part of the Kingdom of Scotland
. By the 1290s, the Hebridean portion of Magnús' former island-kingdom had been incorporated into a newly-created Scottish sheriffdom.
—a line of Norse-Gaelic sea-kings whose kingdom
encompassed the Isle of Man
(Mann) and parts of the Hebrides
, from the late 11th century to the mid 13th century. He was the son of Óláfr Guðrøðarson, King of the Isles (d. 1237). Although Óláfr is known to have had two wives, and no contemporaneous source names the mother of his children, she may have been Óláfr's second wife—Christina, daughter of Fearchar, Earl of Ross
, (d. circa 1251).
Óláfr was a younger son of Guðrøðr Óláfsson, King of the Isles (d. 1187). Before his death in 1187, Guðrøðr instructed that Óláfr should succeed to the kingship. However, Guðrøðr was instead succeeded by his elder son, Rögnvaldr (d. 1229), who had popular support. Rögnvaldr and Óláfr, who are thought to have had different mothers, subsequently warred over the dynasty's island-kingdom in the early 13th century, until Rögnvaldr was slain battling Óláfr in 1229. Rögnvaldr's son, Guðrøðr
, who was also in conflict with Óláfr, took up his father's claim to the throne, and at his height co-ruled the kingdom with Óláfr in 1231. Guðrøðr was slain in 1231, and Óláfr ruled the entire island-kingdom without internal opposition until his own death in 1237. Óláfr was succeeded by his son, Haraldr, who later travelled to Norway and married a daughter of Hákon Hákonarson, King of Norway
(d. 1263), but lost his life at sea on his return voyage in 1248. In May 1249, Haraldr's brother, Rögnvaldr
(d. 1249), formally succeeded to the kingship of the Crovan dynasty's island-kingdom.
Rögnvaldr Óláfsson's reign was an extremely short one; only weeks after his accession, he was slain on Mann. His killer is identified by a contemporary source as a certain knight Ívarr. This Ívarr may have been an ally of Rögnvaldr Óláfsson's second cousin once removed, Haraldr Guðrøðarson (fl.
1249), who seized the kingship immediately following the killing. Although at first, Haraldr was recognised as a legitimate ruler of the kingdom by Henry III, King of England (d. 1272), Haraldr was later regarded as a usurper
by his Norwegian overlord, Hákon. In 1250, Hákon summoned Haraldr to Norway for his seizure of the kingship, and Haraldr was kept from returning to the island-kingdom.
between Magnús and his rival, Haraldr Guðrøðarson, his second cousin once removed. Also shown is the degree of relationship between Magnús and his ally, Eógan mac Donnchada, who was not only his father-in-law, but also his second cousin once removed. The names of females are italicised. Several of the leading members of the Crovan dynasty styled themselves in Latin
("King of the Isles"). The sons of Óláfr Guðrøðarson (d. 1237)—Magnús and his brothers—styled themselves in Latin ("King of Mann and the Isles").
(d. in or after 1268) was a prominent member of the meic Somairle, the descendants of Somairle mac Gilla Brigte, King of the Isles, Lord of Argyll and Kintyre
(d. 1164). Through Somairle's wife, Ragnhildr, daughter of Óláfr Guðrøðarson, King of the Isles (d. 1153), several leading members of the meic Somairle claimed kingship in the Hebrides. In 1248, Eógan and his second cousin, Dubgall mac Ruaidrí, Lord of Garmoran (d. 1268), travelled to Hákon in Norway and requested the title of king in the Hebrides. Hákon subsequently bestowed the title upon Eógan, and the following year, upon learning of Haraldr Óláfsson's death, Hákon sent Eógan westward to take control of the Isles (at least temporarily) on his behalf. Up until this point, Eógan had two overlords: the King of Norway, who claimed the Hebrides; and the King of Scots, who claimed Argyll and coveted the Hebrides. Unfortunately for Eógan, soon after his return from Norway, Alexander II, King of Scots, led an expedition deep into Argyll and demanded that Eógan renounce his allegiance to Hákon. Eógan refused to do so and was subsequently driven from his Scottish lordship.
In 1250, following Haraldr Guðrøðarson's summons to Norway, the chronicle records that Magnús and Eógan arrived on Mann with a force of Norwegians. The exact intentions of the invaders are unknown; it is possible that they may have intended to install Magnús as king. At the very least, Eógan was likely looking for some form of compensation for his dispossession from his mainland Scottish lordship. The chronicle states that the invaders made landfall at Ronaldsway
, and entered into negotiations with the Manx people; although, when it was learned that Eógan styled himself "King of the Isles", the Manxmen took offence and broke off all dialogue.
The chronicle describes how Eógan had his men form-up on St Michael's Isle, an island that was attached to Mann by a tidal causeway
. As even drew near, the chronicle records that an accomplice of Ívarr led a Manx assault on the island and routed the invading forces. The next day, the chronicle states that the invading forces left the shores of Mann. Ívarr's connection to the Manx attack on the invading forces of Eógan and Magnús may suggest that there was still considerable opposition on Mann by adherents of Haraldr to the prospect of Magnús' kingship there.
The following year, Henry commanded the Justiciar of Ireland, John fitz Geoffrey (d. 1258), to prohibit Magnús from raising military forces in Ireland for an invasion of Mann. A year later Magnús succeeded to the kingship, as the chronicle record that he returned to Mann and, with the consent of the people, began his reign. There are indications that opposition to Magnús, and thus possibly support of Haraldr, continued into the mid 1250s. For example, the chronicle records that Hákon bestowed upon Magnús the title of king in 1254; it further notes that when Magnús' opponents heard of this, they became dismayed and that their hopes of overthrowing him gradually faded away. Also, Henry's 1256 letter, which orders his men not to receive Haraldr and Ívarr, may have indicated that the two were still alive and active. The situation in the Isles was clearly somewhat unsettled in the 1250s. For example, Henry is known to have written letters to Llywelyn ap Gruffydd
(d. 1282), Hákon and Alexander, ordering them not allow their men invade Mann in Magnús's absence there in 1254.
In 1261, Alexander III, King of Scots (d. 1286) sent an emissary to Norway to discuss the Isles, although negotiations proved fruitless. The following year, Uilleam, Earl of Ross
(d. 1274) is recorded to have launched a vicious attack on Skye
. The assault was likely carried out on behalf of Alexander, in response to the failure of Scottish mission to Norway the year previous. In response, Hákon organised a massive military force to re-assert Norwegian control along the western seaboard of Scotland. At this time, Hákon was at the height of his power, and his only son had just recently been recognised as heir to the throne.
and considered plundering into the Moray Firth
. It is possible that he intended these acts as a form retribution for the Earl of Ross' savage attack on Skye. The fleet then made its way south along the western seaboard to Skye, where the saga records that Hákon was met by Magnús. The saga states that Hákon's fleet then sailed south to Kerrera
, where Dubgall mac Ruaidrí, King in the Isles (d. 1268) and Magnús amongst others, were sent to lead fifty ships towards Kintyre, while a smaller group was sent to Bute
. The fleet sent to Kintyre was likely tasked with obtaining the allegiance of Áengus mac Domnaill, Lord of Islay (d. circa 1293) and a certain Murchad, both who are stated by the saga to have afterwards submitted to Hákon. The saga records that several castles were secured by Hákon's forces: Rothesay Castle
on Bute; and an unnamed castle in southern Kintyre, which was more than likely Dunaverty Castle
. At Gigha
, the saga relates that Eógan surrendered himself to Hákon, and informed the Norwegian king that he had decided to side with the Scots from whom he held a larger grant of lands. At about the time when Hákon let Eógan go free, the saga records that the first messengers from the King of Scots arrived to parley
.
According to Hákonar saga Hákonarsonar, negotiations started peacefully enough, although as time drew on, and the weather grew worse, a time-pressed Hákon broke off all dialogue. He sent a detachment of ships through Loch Long
—different versions of the saga number the force at forty and sixty ships—led by Magnús, Dubgall, Ailín mac Ruaidrí
(Dubgall's brother), Áengus, and Murchad. The saga states that the ships were dragged across land to Loch Lomond
—which indicates that the invaders would have beached their ships and made portage
across the isthmus
between the two lochs (between what are today the settlements of Arrochar
and Tarbet). The saga vividly describes how the invaders wasted the well-inhabited islands of the loch and the dwellings surrounding the loch. The fact that Hákon tasked his Norse-Gaelic magnates with leading this foray likely indicates that their boats were lighter than those of the Norwegians, and thus easier to portage from one loch to another; it could also indicate that the undertaking was meant to test their faithfulness to the Norwegian cause.
While Loch Lomond was being plundered, Hákon and his main force, stationed between The Cumbraes
and the Scottish mainland, were occupied with the events surrounding the Battle of Largs
, between 30 September and 3 October. Although claimed by later Scottish chroniclers as a great victory, in reality the so-called battle was nothing more than "a series of disorderly skirmishes", with relatively few casualties that achieved little for either side. Following the encounter, Hákon led his fleet northward up through the Hebrides. At Mull, he parted with his Norse-Gaelic lords: Dubgall was rewarded with Eógan's former island-domain; Murchad was given Arran
, and a certain Ruaidrí was given Bute. The Norwegian fleet left the Hebrides and reached Orkney by the end of October, where an ill Hákon died in mid December. Despite the saga's claim that Hákon had been triumphant, in reality the campaign was a failure. Alexander's kingdom had successfully defended itself from Norwegian might, and most of Hákon's Norse-Gaelic supporters were reluctant to support his cause.
. Meanwhile, Alexander seized the initiative and made ready to punish the magnates who had supported Hákon. In 1264, Alexander assembled a fleet and made ready to invade Mann. Without any protection from his Norwegian overlord, Magnús had no choice but to submit to the demands of the powerful King of Scots. The two monarchs met at Dumfries
, where Magnús swore oaths to Alexander, rendered homage, and surrendered hostages. For Alexander's promise of protection against Norwegian retribution, Magnús was forced to provide Alexander's navy
with several "pirate type galleys"—five of twenty oars and five of twelve oars. Alexander then ordered an invasion of the Western Isles, led by the Uilleam, Earl of Mar
(d. in or before 1281), the Alexander Comyn, Earl of Buchan
(d. 1289), and Alan Durward
(d. 1275). According to Scottish chronicler John of Fordun
(d. in or after 1363), the Scots invaders plundered and killed throughout the islands; the expedition itself is corroborated by Hákonar saga Hákonarsonar. Another punitive expedition, possibly led by the Earl of Ross, was launched into Caithness and Ross
. The submission forced upon the island-magnates seated on the western seaboard of Scotland, particularly that of Magnús, marked the complete collapse of Norwegian influence in the Isles.
s of the kings of the Crovan dynasty are known to scholars. Of these, only three date to the reign of Magnús—one of which, a grant to Conishead Priory
in 1256, is the only original royal charter of the dynasty in existence.
Like his father and his brother Haraldr, Magnús is recorded within the Chronicle of Mann as having been knighted by Henry. The knighthoods of Magnús (1256) and Haraldr (1247) appear to be confirmed by independent English sources. For example, in a certain letter of protection written on behalf of Henry to Magnús in 1256, Magnús is described to have been invested with a military belt by the English King.
. There is a possibility that a coffin-lid found at Rushen, may be associated with the tomb of one of the three kings of the Crovan dynasty known to have been buried there. At the time of his death, Magnús is known to have been married to Máire (d. between 1300–1303), daughter of Eógan. After becoming a widow, Máire is known to have had numerous successive husbands: Maol Íosa, Earl of Strathearn
(d. 1271), Hugh, Lord of Abernethy (d. 1291/2), and William Fitzwarin (d. 1299). The Annals of Furness record that, with the death of Magnús, "kings ceased to reign on Mann".
, the centuries-old territorial dispute over Scotland's western seaboard was at last settled. Within the treaty, Magnús Hákonarson, King of Norway (d. 1280) ceded Mann and the Isles to Alexander, who in turn agreed to pay 4,000 merk
s sterling over four years, and in addition to pay 100 merks sterling
in perpetuity
. Other conditions stipulated that the inhabitants of the islands would be subject to laws of Scotland; that they were not to be punished for their actions previous to the treaty; and that they were free to remain or leave their possessions peacefully. In 1266, the Chronicle of Lanercost records that Alexander ruled Mann through appointed bailiff
s; Scottish exchequer
accounts record that the Sheriff of Dumfries was given allowance for maintaining seven Manx hostages.
In 1275, Magnús Óláfsson's illegitimate son, Guðrøðr, led a revolt on Mann and attempted to establish himself as king. According to the Chronicle of Mann and the Chronicle of Lanercost, a Scottish fleet landed on Mann on 7 October, and early the next morning the revolt was crushed as the Scots routed the rebels
. Guðrøðr may very well have been slain in the defeat, although one source, the Annals of Furness, states that he, his wife and his followers escaped the carnage to Wales.
By the end of the 13th century, the islands once ruled by Magnús, and the Crovan dynasty before him, were incorporated into the Scottish realm. In 1293, the parliament
of John, King of Scots (d. 1314) established three new sheriffdoms within his kingdom. One of these three, the Sheriffdom of Skye, was granted to Uilleam, Earl of Ross
(d. 1323). This sheriffdom included the seaboard north of Ardnamurchan
(Wester Ross
and Kintail
), and the islands of Skye, Lewis
, Uist
, Barra
, Eigg
, and Rum
. It is possible that parts of the sheriffdom may have been taken over earlier, sometime after the dismantling of the Kingdom of Mann and the Isles.
Hebrides
The Hebrides comprise a widespread and diverse archipelago off the west coast of Scotland. There are two main groups: the Inner and Outer Hebrides. These islands have a long history of occupation dating back to the Mesolithic and the culture of the residents has been affected by the successive...
. Several leading members of the Crovan dynasty
Crovan dynasty
The Crovan dynasty, from the late 11th century to the mid 13th century, was the ruling family of an insular kingdom known variously in secondary sources as the Kingdom of Mann, the Kingdom of the Isles, and the Kingdom of Mann and the Isles...
, such as Óláfr, styled themselves "King of the Isles". However, Magnús and his brothers styled themselves "King of Mann and the Isles". Although Kings in their own right, leading members of the Crovan dynasty paid tribute to the Kings of Norway and generally recognised their nominal overlordship of Mann and the Hebrides.
In 1237, Óláfr died and was succeeded by his elder son, Haraldr, who later drowned in 1248. The kingship was then taken up by his brother, Rögnvaldr Óláfsson. After a reign of only weeks, Rögnvaldr was slain and the kingship was taken up by Haraldr Guðrøðarson, a descendant of Óláfr's half-brother and deadly rival, Rögnvaldr Guðrøðarson, King of the Isles. After a short reign, this Haraldr was removed from power by his overlord, Hákon Hákonarson, King of Norway
Haakon IV of Norway
Haakon Haakonarson , also called Haakon the Old, was king of Norway from 1217 to 1263. Under his rule, medieval Norway reached its peak....
. In Haraldr's absence, Magnús and a relation of his, Eógan mac Donnchada, King in the Isles
Eóghan of Argyll
Eóghan MacDubhghaill was a 13th century Scottish nobleman and warrior who was styled "King of the Isles", "Lord of Argyll"...
, unsuccessfully attempted to conquer Mann. A few years later, Magnús successfully made his return to the island and was proclaimed king.
In the 1240s, Alexander II, King of Scots attempted to purchase the Isles from Hákon. Later in 1261, his son and successor, Alexander III, King of Scots, attempted the same. Hákon's response to Scottish aggression in the Hebrides was to organise a massive fleet to re-assert Norwegian authority. In the summer of 1263, the fleet sailed down through the Hebrides. Although it gained in strength as made its way south, the Norwegian King received only lukewarm support from his Norse-Gaelic vassals—only Dubgall mac Ruaidrí and his close relatives, and Magnús himself, came out whole-heartedly. At one point during the campaign, Hákon's Norse-Gaelic lords were tasked with raiding deep into the Lennox district
Lennox (district)
The district of Lennox , often known as "the Lennox", is a region of Scotland centred around the village of Lennoxtown in East Dunbartonshire, eight miles north of the centre of Glasgow. At various times in history, the district has had both a dukedom and earldom associated with it.- External...
, while the main Norwegian force was occupied with Battle of Largs
Battle of Largs
The Battle of Largs was an engagement fought between the armies of Norway and Scotland near the present-day town of Largs in North Ayrshire on the Firth of Clyde in Scotland on 2 October 1263. It was the most important military engagement of the Scottish-Norwegian War. The Norwegian forces were...
, a series of skirmishes against the Scots, near what is today Largs
Largs
Largs is a town on the Firth of Clyde in North Ayrshire, Scotland, about from Glasgow. The original name means "the slopes" in Scottish Gaelic....
. Following this action, Hákon's demoralised fleet returned home having accomplished little. Not long after Hákon's departure and death, Alexander launched a punitive expedition into the Hebrides, and threatened Mann with the same. Magnús's subsequent submission to the Scots King, and the homage
Homage
Homage is a show or demonstration of respect or dedication to someone or something, sometimes by simple declaration but often by some more oblique reference, artistic or poetic....
rendered for his lands, symbolises the failure of Hákon's campaign, and marks the complete collapse of Norwegian influence in the Isles.
Magnús, the last reigning king of his dynasty, died at Rushen Castle in 1265, and was buried at the Abbey of St Mary, Rushen
Rushen Abbey
Rushen Abbey was an abbey on the Isle of Man, located near Ballasalla. Originally home for monks of the Savignac order, it soon came under Cistercian control and remained so until its dissolution. The abbey is located two miles from Castle Rushen; the most important political entity on the island...
. At the time of his death, he was married to Máire, daughter of Eógan. In the year after his death, Mann and the Isles were formally ceded by King of Norway to the King of Scots. Ten years after Magnús' death, Guðrøðr, a bastard son of his attempted to establish himself as king on Mann. Guðrøðr's revolt was quickly and brutally crushed by Scottish forces, and the island remained part of the Kingdom of Scotland
Kingdom of Scotland
The Kingdom of Scotland was a Sovereign state in North-West Europe that existed from 843 until 1707. It occupied the northern third of the island of Great Britain and shared a land border to the south with the Kingdom of England...
. By the 1290s, the Hebridean portion of Magnús' former island-kingdom had been incorporated into a newly-created Scottish sheriffdom.
Background
Magnús was a member of the Crovan dynastyCrovan dynasty
The Crovan dynasty, from the late 11th century to the mid 13th century, was the ruling family of an insular kingdom known variously in secondary sources as the Kingdom of Mann, the Kingdom of the Isles, and the Kingdom of Mann and the Isles...
—a line of Norse-Gaelic sea-kings whose kingdom
Kingdom of the Isles
The Kingdom of the Isles comprised the Hebrides, the islands of the Firth of Clyde and the Isle of Man from the 9th to the 13th centuries AD. The islands were known to the Norse as the Suðreyjar, or "Southern Isles" as distinct from the Norðreyjar or Northern Isles of Orkney and Shetland...
encompassed the Isle of Man
Isle of Man
The Isle of Man , otherwise known simply as Mann , is a self-governing British Crown Dependency, located in the Irish Sea between the islands of Great Britain and Ireland, within the British Isles. The head of state is Queen Elizabeth II, who holds the title of Lord of Mann. The Lord of Mann is...
(Mann) and parts of the Hebrides
Hebrides
The Hebrides comprise a widespread and diverse archipelago off the west coast of Scotland. There are two main groups: the Inner and Outer Hebrides. These islands have a long history of occupation dating back to the Mesolithic and the culture of the residents has been affected by the successive...
, from the late 11th century to the mid 13th century. He was the son of Óláfr Guðrøðarson, King of the Isles (d. 1237). Although Óláfr is known to have had two wives, and no contemporaneous source names the mother of his children, she may have been Óláfr's second wife—Christina, daughter of Fearchar, Earl of Ross
Fearchar, Earl of Ross
Fearchar of Ross or Ferchar mac in tSagairt , was the first Mormaer or Earl of Ross we know of from the thirteenth century, whose career brought Ross into the fold of the Scottish kings for the first time, and who is remembered as the founder of the Earldom of Ross.-Origins:The traditional...
, (d. circa 1251).
Óláfr was a younger son of Guðrøðr Óláfsson, King of the Isles (d. 1187). Before his death in 1187, Guðrøðr instructed that Óláfr should succeed to the kingship. However, Guðrøðr was instead succeeded by his elder son, Rögnvaldr (d. 1229), who had popular support. Rögnvaldr and Óláfr, who are thought to have had different mothers, subsequently warred over the dynasty's island-kingdom in the early 13th century, until Rögnvaldr was slain battling Óláfr in 1229. Rögnvaldr's son, Guðrøðr
Gofraid Donn
Gofraid mac Ragnaill was a 13th century Hebridean king, who descended from a long line of kings who ruled the Hebrides and the Isle of Man...
, who was also in conflict with Óláfr, took up his father's claim to the throne, and at his height co-ruled the kingdom with Óláfr in 1231. Guðrøðr was slain in 1231, and Óláfr ruled the entire island-kingdom without internal opposition until his own death in 1237. Óláfr was succeeded by his son, Haraldr, who later travelled to Norway and married a daughter of Hákon Hákonarson, King of Norway
Haakon IV of Norway
Haakon Haakonarson , also called Haakon the Old, was king of Norway from 1217 to 1263. Under his rule, medieval Norway reached its peak....
(d. 1263), but lost his life at sea on his return voyage in 1248. In May 1249, Haraldr's brother, Rögnvaldr
Ragnall V Olafsson
Rögnvaldr Óláfsson was a mid 13th century King of Mann and the Isles. After the death of his brother, Haraldr Óláfsson, King of Mann and the Isles, in 1248, Rögnvaldr succeeded to the kingship in 1249. His reign was a short one; only weeks after his succession, Rögnvaldr was assassinated in near...
(d. 1249), formally succeeded to the kingship of the Crovan dynasty's island-kingdom.
Rögnvaldr Óláfsson's reign was an extremely short one; only weeks after his accession, he was slain on Mann. His killer is identified by a contemporary source as a certain knight Ívarr. This Ívarr may have been an ally of Rögnvaldr Óláfsson's second cousin once removed, Haraldr Guðrøðarson (fl.
Floruit
Floruit , abbreviated fl. , is a Latin verb meaning "flourished", denoting the period of time during which something was active...
1249), who seized the kingship immediately following the killing. Although at first, Haraldr was recognised as a legitimate ruler of the kingdom by Henry III, King of England (d. 1272), Haraldr was later regarded as a usurper
Usurper
Usurper is a derogatory term used to describe either an illegitimate or controversial claimant to the power; often, but not always in a monarchy, or a person who succeeds in establishing himself as a monarch without inheriting the throne, or any other person exercising authority unconstitutionally...
by his Norwegian overlord, Hákon. In 1250, Hákon summoned Haraldr to Norway for his seizure of the kingship, and Haraldr was kept from returning to the island-kingdom.
Relations and rivals
The pedigree below outlines the patrilineal descendants of Óláfr Guðrøðarson (d. 1153). Illustrated is the degree of relationshipDegree of relationship
Degree of relationship is a measurement of kinship, and may generally be measured as either one vertical or horizontal step in a standard family tree....
between Magnús and his rival, Haraldr Guðrøðarson, his second cousin once removed. Also shown is the degree of relationship between Magnús and his ally, Eógan mac Donnchada, who was not only his father-in-law, but also his second cousin once removed. The names of females are italicised. Several of the leading members of the Crovan dynasty styled themselves in Latin
Latin
Latin is an Italic language originally spoken in Latium and Ancient Rome. It, along with most European languages, is a descendant of the ancient Proto-Indo-European language. Although it is considered a dead language, a number of scholars and members of the Christian clergy speak it fluently, and...
("King of the Isles"). The sons of Óláfr Guðrøðarson (d. 1237)—Magnús and his brothers—styled themselves in Latin ("King of Mann and the Isles").
Eógan of Argyll and the invasion of Mann
Eógan mac Donnchada, Lord of Argyll, King in the IslesEóghan of Argyll
Eóghan MacDubhghaill was a 13th century Scottish nobleman and warrior who was styled "King of the Isles", "Lord of Argyll"...
(d. in or after 1268) was a prominent member of the meic Somairle, the descendants of Somairle mac Gilla Brigte, King of the Isles, Lord of Argyll and Kintyre
Somerled
Somerled was a military and political leader of the Scottish Isles in the 12th century who was known in Gaelic as rí Innse Gall . His father was Gillebride...
(d. 1164). Through Somairle's wife, Ragnhildr, daughter of Óláfr Guðrøðarson, King of the Isles (d. 1153), several leading members of the meic Somairle claimed kingship in the Hebrides. In 1248, Eógan and his second cousin, Dubgall mac Ruaidrí, Lord of Garmoran (d. 1268), travelled to Hákon in Norway and requested the title of king in the Hebrides. Hákon subsequently bestowed the title upon Eógan, and the following year, upon learning of Haraldr Óláfsson's death, Hákon sent Eógan westward to take control of the Isles (at least temporarily) on his behalf. Up until this point, Eógan had two overlords: the King of Norway, who claimed the Hebrides; and the King of Scots, who claimed Argyll and coveted the Hebrides. Unfortunately for Eógan, soon after his return from Norway, Alexander II, King of Scots, led an expedition deep into Argyll and demanded that Eógan renounce his allegiance to Hákon. Eógan refused to do so and was subsequently driven from his Scottish lordship.
In 1250, following Haraldr Guðrøðarson's summons to Norway, the chronicle records that Magnús and Eógan arrived on Mann with a force of Norwegians. The exact intentions of the invaders are unknown; it is possible that they may have intended to install Magnús as king. At the very least, Eógan was likely looking for some form of compensation for his dispossession from his mainland Scottish lordship. The chronicle states that the invaders made landfall at Ronaldsway
Ronaldsway
Ronaldsway is a place in Malew in the south of the Isle of Man, between the village of Ballasalla and the town of Castletown. It is notable as the location of Isle of Man Airport and historically RNAS Ronaldsway, together with the adjoining customs free zone and industrial estate.Ronaldsway is the...
, and entered into negotiations with the Manx people; although, when it was learned that Eógan styled himself "King of the Isles", the Manxmen took offence and broke off all dialogue.
The chronicle describes how Eógan had his men form-up on St Michael's Isle, an island that was attached to Mann by a tidal causeway
Causeway
In modern usage, a causeway is a road or railway elevated, usually across a broad body of water or wetland.- Etymology :When first used, the word appeared in a form such as “causey way” making clear its derivation from the earlier form “causey”. This word seems to have come from the same source by...
. As even drew near, the chronicle records that an accomplice of Ívarr led a Manx assault on the island and routed the invading forces. The next day, the chronicle states that the invading forces left the shores of Mann. Ívarr's connection to the Manx attack on the invading forces of Eógan and Magnús may suggest that there was still considerable opposition on Mann by adherents of Haraldr to the prospect of Magnús' kingship there.
The following year, Henry commanded the Justiciar of Ireland, John fitz Geoffrey (d. 1258), to prohibit Magnús from raising military forces in Ireland for an invasion of Mann. A year later Magnús succeeded to the kingship, as the chronicle record that he returned to Mann and, with the consent of the people, began his reign. There are indications that opposition to Magnús, and thus possibly support of Haraldr, continued into the mid 1250s. For example, the chronicle records that Hákon bestowed upon Magnús the title of king in 1254; it further notes that when Magnús' opponents heard of this, they became dismayed and that their hopes of overthrowing him gradually faded away. Also, Henry's 1256 letter, which orders his men not to receive Haraldr and Ívarr, may have indicated that the two were still alive and active. The situation in the Isles was clearly somewhat unsettled in the 1250s. For example, Henry is known to have written letters to Llywelyn ap Gruffydd
Llywelyn the Last
Llywelyn ap Gruffydd or Llywelyn Ein Llyw Olaf , sometimes rendered as Llywelyn II, was the last prince of an independent Wales before its conquest by Edward I of England....
(d. 1282), Hákon and Alexander, ordering them not allow their men invade Mann in Magnús's absence there in 1254.
Scottish aggression
In 1244, Alexander made the first of several attempts by Scottish monarchs to purchase the Hebrides from the Kingdom of Norway. It was following this unsuccessful bid, that Hákon sent Eógan into the Isles in 1249, which in turn led to Eógan's expulsion from the Scottish-mainland by Alexander's full-scale invasion into Argyll. Alexander's sudden death during the campaign meant that the consolidation of the Isles into the Kingdom of Scotland was postponed for almost two decades.In 1261, Alexander III, King of Scots (d. 1286) sent an emissary to Norway to discuss the Isles, although negotiations proved fruitless. The following year, Uilleam, Earl of Ross
Uilleam I, Earl of Ross
Uilleam I of Ross was the first successor of Ferchar mac an tSagairt, as Mormaer of Ross, with his comital dates traditionally given as 1251–1274....
(d. 1274) is recorded to have launched a vicious attack on Skye
Skye
Skye or the Isle of Skye is the largest and most northerly island in the Inner Hebrides of Scotland. The island's peninsulas radiate out from a mountainous centre dominated by the Cuillin hills...
. The assault was likely carried out on behalf of Alexander, in response to the failure of Scottish mission to Norway the year previous. In response, Hákon organised a massive military force to re-assert Norwegian control along the western seaboard of Scotland. At this time, Hákon was at the height of his power, and his only son had just recently been recognised as heir to the throne.
Norwegian retaliation
Late in the summer of 1263, Hákon's fleet reached the northern seaboard of Scotland. Although the precise size of the fleet is unknown, the Icelandic Annals remark that "so great a host that an equally great army is not known ever to have gone from Norway". Upon reaching the Scottish-mainland, Hákonar saga Hákonarsonar states that Hákon levied a tax upon CaithnessCaithness
Caithness is a registration county, lieutenancy area and historic local government area of Scotland. The name was used also for the earldom of Caithness and the Caithness constituency of the Parliament of the United Kingdom . Boundaries are not identical in all contexts, but the Caithness area is...
and considered plundering into the Moray Firth
Moray Firth
The Moray Firth is a roughly triangular inlet of the North Sea, north and east of Inverness, which is in the Highland council area of north of Scotland...
. It is possible that he intended these acts as a form retribution for the Earl of Ross' savage attack on Skye. The fleet then made its way south along the western seaboard to Skye, where the saga records that Hákon was met by Magnús. The saga states that Hákon's fleet then sailed south to Kerrera
Kerrera
Kerrera is an island in the Scottish Inner Hebrides, close to the town of Oban. In 2005 it had a population of about 35 people, and it is linked to the mainland by passenger ferry on the Gallanach Road....
, where Dubgall mac Ruaidrí, King in the Isles (d. 1268) and Magnús amongst others, were sent to lead fifty ships towards Kintyre, while a smaller group was sent to Bute
Bute
- People :* John Stuart, 3rd Earl of Bute , British Prime Minister in office between 1762 and 1763* Marquess of Bute, a peerage title in the Peerage of Great Britain* Lucian Bute , Romanian boxer...
. The fleet sent to Kintyre was likely tasked with obtaining the allegiance of Áengus mac Domnaill, Lord of Islay (d. circa 1293) and a certain Murchad, both who are stated by the saga to have afterwards submitted to Hákon. The saga records that several castles were secured by Hákon's forces: Rothesay Castle
Rothesay Castle
Rothesay Castle is a ruined castle in Rothesay, the principal town on the Isle of Bute, in western Scotland. Located at , the castle has been described as "one of the most remarkable in Scotland", for its long history dating back to the beginning of the 13th century, and its unusual circular...
on Bute; and an unnamed castle in southern Kintyre, which was more than likely Dunaverty Castle
Dunaverty Castle
Dunaverty Castle is located at Southend at the southern end of the Kintyre peninsula in western Scotland. The site was once a fort belonging to the Clan Donald . Little remains of the castle, although the site is protected as a scheduled monument....
. At Gigha
Gigha
The Isle of Gigha is a small island off the west coast of Kintyre in Scotland. The island forms part of Argyll and Bute and has a population of about 150 people, many of whom speak Scottish Gaelic. The climate is mild with higher than average sunshine hours and the soils are fertile.Gigha has a...
, the saga relates that Eógan surrendered himself to Hákon, and informed the Norwegian king that he had decided to side with the Scots from whom he held a larger grant of lands. At about the time when Hákon let Eógan go free, the saga records that the first messengers from the King of Scots arrived to parley
Parley
Parley is a discussion or conference, especially one between enemies over terms of a truce or other matters. The root of the word parley is parler, which is the French verb "to speak"; specifically the conjugation parlez "you speak", whether as imperative or indicative.Beginning in the High Middle...
.
According to Hákonar saga Hákonarsonar, negotiations started peacefully enough, although as time drew on, and the weather grew worse, a time-pressed Hákon broke off all dialogue. He sent a detachment of ships through Loch Long
Loch Long
Loch Long is a body of water in Argyll and Bute, Scotland. The sea loch extends from the Firth of Clyde at its southwestern end. It measures approximately 20 miles in length, with a width of between one and two miles...
—different versions of the saga number the force at forty and sixty ships—led by Magnús, Dubgall, Ailín mac Ruaidrí
Ailean mac Ruaidhri
Ailean mac Ruaidhri, also known as Alan, was the son of Ruaidhri mac Raghnaill and brother of Dubhghall mac Ruaidhri. He fought on the side of Haakon IV of Norway for control of the Hebrides against other Scottish claimants....
(Dubgall's brother), Áengus, and Murchad. The saga states that the ships were dragged across land to Loch Lomond
Loch Lomond
Loch Lomond is a freshwater Scottish loch, lying on the Highland Boundary Fault. It is the largest lake in Great Britain by surface area. The lake contains many islands, including Inchmurrin, the largest fresh-water island in the British Isles, although the lake itself is smaller than many Irish...
—which indicates that the invaders would have beached their ships and made portage
Portage
Portage or portaging refers to the practice of carrying watercraft or cargo over land to avoid river obstacles, or between two bodies of water. A place where this carrying occurs is also called a portage; a person doing the carrying is called a porter.The English word portage is derived from the...
across the isthmus
Isthmus
An isthmus is a narrow strip of land connecting two larger land areas usually with waterforms on either side.Canals are often built through isthmuses where they may be particularly advantageous to create a shortcut for marine transportation...
between the two lochs (between what are today the settlements of Arrochar
Arrochar
Arrochar can refer to:* Arrochar, Argyll and Bute, Scotland** Arrochar and Tarbet railway station** Arrochar Alps, Argyll and Bute, a group of small mountains* Arrochar, Staten Island, New York** Arrochar...
and Tarbet). The saga vividly describes how the invaders wasted the well-inhabited islands of the loch and the dwellings surrounding the loch. The fact that Hákon tasked his Norse-Gaelic magnates with leading this foray likely indicates that their boats were lighter than those of the Norwegians, and thus easier to portage from one loch to another; it could also indicate that the undertaking was meant to test their faithfulness to the Norwegian cause.
While Loch Lomond was being plundered, Hákon and his main force, stationed between The Cumbraes
The Cumbraes
The Cumbraes are a group of islands in the Firth of Clyde, Scotland. The islands belong to the traditional county of Bute and the modern unitary authority of North Ayrshire.The main islands in the group are:* Great Cumbrae* Little Cumbrae...
and the Scottish mainland, were occupied with the events surrounding the Battle of Largs
Battle of Largs
The Battle of Largs was an engagement fought between the armies of Norway and Scotland near the present-day town of Largs in North Ayrshire on the Firth of Clyde in Scotland on 2 October 1263. It was the most important military engagement of the Scottish-Norwegian War. The Norwegian forces were...
, between 30 September and 3 October. Although claimed by later Scottish chroniclers as a great victory, in reality the so-called battle was nothing more than "a series of disorderly skirmishes", with relatively few casualties that achieved little for either side. Following the encounter, Hákon led his fleet northward up through the Hebrides. At Mull, he parted with his Norse-Gaelic lords: Dubgall was rewarded with Eógan's former island-domain; Murchad was given Arran
Arran
-Geography:* Arran , historical region * Isle of Arran, Scotland* Arranmore island, County Donegal, Ireland* Aran Islands, County Galway, Ireland* Arran, former township now in Arran-Elderslie, Ontario, Canada...
, and a certain Ruaidrí was given Bute. The Norwegian fleet left the Hebrides and reached Orkney by the end of October, where an ill Hákon died in mid December. Despite the saga's claim that Hákon had been triumphant, in reality the campaign was a failure. Alexander's kingdom had successfully defended itself from Norwegian might, and most of Hákon's Norse-Gaelic supporters were reluctant to support his cause.
Hebridean-Manx subjugation
Within months of Hákon's abortive campaign, embassies were sent forth from Norway to discuss terms of peacePeace treaty
A peace treaty is an agreement between two or more hostile parties, usually countries or governments, that formally ends a state of war between the parties...
. Meanwhile, Alexander seized the initiative and made ready to punish the magnates who had supported Hákon. In 1264, Alexander assembled a fleet and made ready to invade Mann. Without any protection from his Norwegian overlord, Magnús had no choice but to submit to the demands of the powerful King of Scots. The two monarchs met at Dumfries
Dumfries
Dumfries is a market town and former royal burgh within the Dumfries and Galloway council area of Scotland. It is near the mouth of the River Nith into the Solway Firth. Dumfries was the county town of the former county of Dumfriesshire. Dumfries is nicknamed Queen of the South...
, where Magnús swore oaths to Alexander, rendered homage, and surrendered hostages. For Alexander's promise of protection against Norwegian retribution, Magnús was forced to provide Alexander's navy
Royal Scots Navy
The Royal Scots Navy was the navy of the Kingdom of Scotland from its foundation in the 11th century until its merger with the Kingdom of England's Royal Navy per the Acts of Union 1707.- Origins :...
with several "pirate type galleys"—five of twenty oars and five of twelve oars. Alexander then ordered an invasion of the Western Isles, led by the Uilleam, Earl of Mar
Uilleam, Earl of Mar
Uilleam of Mar - Uilleam mac Dhonnchaidh - was perhaps the greatest of the Mar mormaers, ruling Mar from 1244 to 1276....
(d. in or before 1281), the Alexander Comyn, Earl of Buchan
Alexander Comyn, Earl of Buchan
Alexander Comyn, 2nd Earl of Buchan was a Scoto-Norman magnate who was one of the most important figures in the 13th century Kingdom of Scotland. He was the son of William Comyn, jure uxoris Earl of Buchan, and Marjory, Countess of Buchan, the heiress of the last native Scottish Mormaer of Buchan,...
(d. 1289), and Alan Durward
Alan Durward
Alan Hostarius was the son of Thomas de Lundin, a grandson of Gille Críst, Mormaer of Mar. His mother's name is unknown, but she was almost certainly a daughter of Máel Coluim, Mormaer of Atholl, meaning that Alan was the product of two Gaelic comital families.Alan was one of the most important...
(d. 1275). According to Scottish chronicler John of Fordun
John of Fordun
John of Fordun was a Scottish chronicler. It is generally stated that he was born at Fordoun, Mearns. It is certain that he was a secular priest, and that he composed his history in the latter part of the 14th century; and it is probable that he was a chaplain in the St Machar's Cathedral of...
(d. in or after 1363), the Scots invaders plundered and killed throughout the islands; the expedition itself is corroborated by Hákonar saga Hákonarsonar. Another punitive expedition, possibly led by the Earl of Ross, was launched into Caithness and Ross
Ross
Ross is a region of Scotland and a former mormaerdom, earldom, sheriffdom and county. The name Ross allegedly derives from a Gaelic word meaning a headland - perhaps a reference to the Black Isle. The Norse word for Orkney - Hrossay meaning horse island - is another possible origin. The area...
. The submission forced upon the island-magnates seated on the western seaboard of Scotland, particularly that of Magnús, marked the complete collapse of Norwegian influence in the Isles.
Acta and honours
Only twenty originals, copies, or abstract versions of royal charterRoyal Charter
A royal charter is a formal document issued by a monarch as letters patent, granting a right or power to an individual or a body corporate. They were, and are still, used to establish significant organizations such as cities or universities. Charters should be distinguished from warrants and...
s of the kings of the Crovan dynasty are known to scholars. Of these, only three date to the reign of Magnús—one of which, a grant to Conishead Priory
Conishead Priory
Conishead Priory is a large Gothic Revival building on the Furness peninsula near Ulverston in Cumbria. The priory's name translates literally as 'King's Hill Priory'.-History of the site:...
in 1256, is the only original royal charter of the dynasty in existence.
Like his father and his brother Haraldr, Magnús is recorded within the Chronicle of Mann as having been knighted by Henry. The knighthoods of Magnús (1256) and Haraldr (1247) appear to be confirmed by independent English sources. For example, in a certain letter of protection written on behalf of Henry to Magnús in 1256, Magnús is described to have been invested with a military belt by the English King.
Death
Magnús, the last reigning king of the Crovan dynasty, ruled peacefully as King of Mann and the Isles until his death in 1265. According to the chronicle, he died at Rushen Castle on 24 November, and was buried at the Abbey of St Mary, RushenRushen Abbey
Rushen Abbey was an abbey on the Isle of Man, located near Ballasalla. Originally home for monks of the Savignac order, it soon came under Cistercian control and remained so until its dissolution. The abbey is located two miles from Castle Rushen; the most important political entity on the island...
. There is a possibility that a coffin-lid found at Rushen, may be associated with the tomb of one of the three kings of the Crovan dynasty known to have been buried there. At the time of his death, Magnús is known to have been married to Máire (d. between 1300–1303), daughter of Eógan. After becoming a widow, Máire is known to have had numerous successive husbands: Maol Íosa, Earl of Strathearn
Maol Íosa II, Earl of Strathearn
Maol Íosa II of Strathearn who ruled Strathearn 1245–1271, is the fifth known Mormaer of Strathearn, but of course this is simply a source problem and in no way means that he actually was the fifth....
(d. 1271), Hugh, Lord of Abernethy (d. 1291/2), and William Fitzwarin (d. 1299). The Annals of Furness record that, with the death of Magnús, "kings ceased to reign on Mann".
Dismantled kingdom
Three years after the inconclusive skirmish at Largs, terms of peace were finally agreed upon between the kingdoms of Norway and Scotland. On 2 July 1266, with the conclusion of the Treaty of PerthTreaty of Perth
The Treaty of Perth, 1266, ended military conflict between Norway, under King Magnus VI of Norway, and Scotland, under King Alexander III, over the sovereignty of the Hebrides and the Isle of Man....
, the centuries-old territorial dispute over Scotland's western seaboard was at last settled. Within the treaty, Magnús Hákonarson, King of Norway (d. 1280) ceded Mann and the Isles to Alexander, who in turn agreed to pay 4,000 merk
Merk
A merk was a Scottish silver coin. Originally the same word as a mark of silver, the merk was in circulation at the end of the 16th century and in the 17th century. It was originally valued at 13s 4d , later raised to 14s Scots...
s sterling over four years, and in addition to pay 100 merks sterling
Sterling silver
Sterling silver is an alloy of silver containing 92.5% by mass of silver and 7.5% by mass of other metals, usually copper. The sterling silver standard has a minimum millesimal fineness of 925....
in perpetuity
Perpetuity
A perpetuity is an annuity that has no end, or a stream of cash payments that continues forever. There are few actual perpetuities in existence...
. Other conditions stipulated that the inhabitants of the islands would be subject to laws of Scotland; that they were not to be punished for their actions previous to the treaty; and that they were free to remain or leave their possessions peacefully. In 1266, the Chronicle of Lanercost records that Alexander ruled Mann through appointed bailiff
Bailiff
A bailiff is a governor or custodian ; a legal officer to whom some degree of authority, care or jurisdiction is committed...
s; Scottish exchequer
Exchequer
The Exchequer is a government department of the United Kingdom responsible for the management and collection of taxation and other government revenues. The historical Exchequer developed judicial roles...
accounts record that the Sheriff of Dumfries was given allowance for maintaining seven Manx hostages.
In 1275, Magnús Óláfsson's illegitimate son, Guðrøðr, led a revolt on Mann and attempted to establish himself as king. According to the Chronicle of Mann and the Chronicle of Lanercost, a Scottish fleet landed on Mann on 7 October, and early the next morning the revolt was crushed as the Scots routed the rebels
Battle of Ronaldsway
The Battle of Ronaldsway took place in 1275 at Ronaldsway in the southern part of the Isle of Man between a Scottish army and the Manx. The battle crushed the final attempt by the Manx to re-establish the Norse Sudreyar dynasty...
. Guðrøðr may very well have been slain in the defeat, although one source, the Annals of Furness, states that he, his wife and his followers escaped the carnage to Wales.
By the end of the 13th century, the islands once ruled by Magnús, and the Crovan dynasty before him, were incorporated into the Scottish realm. In 1293, the parliament
Parliament of Scotland
The Parliament of Scotland, officially the Estates of Parliament, was the legislature of the Kingdom of Scotland. The unicameral parliament of Scotland is first found on record during the early 13th century, with the first meeting for which a primary source survives at...
of John, King of Scots (d. 1314) established three new sheriffdoms within his kingdom. One of these three, the Sheriffdom of Skye, was granted to Uilleam, Earl of Ross
Uilleam II, Earl of Ross
Uilleam II of Ross was the second successor of Ferchar mac in tSagairt, as Mormaer of Ross .In 1284 he joined with other Scottish noblemen who acknowledged Margaret of Norway as the heir of Alexander....
(d. 1323). This sheriffdom included the seaboard north of Ardnamurchan
Ardnamurchan
Ardnamurchan is a peninsula in Lochaber, Highland, Scotland, noted for being very unspoilt and undisturbed. Its remoteness is accentuated by the main access route being a single track road for much of its length.-Geography:...
(Wester Ross
Wester Ross
is a western area of Ross and Cromarty in Scotland, notably containing the villages on the west coast such as:* Lochcarron* Applecross* Shieldaig* Torridon* Kinlochewe * * * Aultbea* Laide* Ullapool* Achiltibuie...
and Kintail
Kintail
Kintail is an area of mountains in the Northwest Highlands of Scotland. It consists of the mountains to the north of Glen Shiel and the A87 road between the heads of Loch Duich and Loch Cluanie; its boundaries, other than Glen Shiel, are generally taken to be the valleys of Strath Croe and Gleann...
), and the islands of Skye, Lewis
Lewis
Lewis is the northern part of Lewis and Harris, the largest island of the Western Isles or Outer Hebrides of Scotland. The total area of Lewis is ....
, Uist
Uist
Uist or The Uists are the central group of islands in the Outer Hebrides of Scotland.North Uist and South Uist are linked by causeways running via Benbecula and Grimsay, and the entire group is sometimes known as the Uists....
, Barra
Barra
The island of Barra is a predominantly Gaelic-speaking island, and apart from the adjacent island of Vatersay, to which it is connected by a causeway, is the southernmost inhabited island of the Outer Hebrides in Scotland.-Geography:The 2001 census showed that the resident population was 1,078...
, Eigg
Eigg
Eigg is one of the Small Isles, in the Scottish Inner Hebrides. It lies to the south of the Skye and to the north of the Ardnamurchan peninsula. Eigg is long from north to south, and east to west. With an area of , it is the second largest of the Small Isles after Rùm.-Geography:The main...
, and Rum
Rùm
Rùm , a Scottish Gaelic name often anglicised to Rum) is one of the Small Isles of the Inner Hebrides, in the district of Lochaber, Scotland...
. It is possible that parts of the sheriffdom may have been taken over earlier, sometime after the dismantling of the Kingdom of Mann and the Isles.