On the 279th anniversary of Bonnie Prince Charlie’s arrival on Scottish soil, volunteers at Bannockburn House have discovered a musketball hole hidden behind a secret panel in one of the bedrooms that Prince Charles Edward Stuart stayed in while he was recovering. Prince Charles had taken shelter at Bannockburn House in 1746, and it has been said that a shot was fired through the window of the room he was sleeping in. The newly discovered hole is believed to be proof of an assassination attempt against the prince.
The room was re-examined after the crucial lead provided by David Jenkinson, whose aunt was the housekeeper for the last owner in residence. Despite his aunt’s dispute as to who the shot was aimed at, volunteers managed to find an inset panel that was suspected of hiding the hole. Catherine Bradley, History Team Lead at Bannockburn House, discovered the musketball hole and called it a “very special” find.
The musket ball hole was authenticated by Jacobite historian Professor Murray Pittock, of the University of Glasgow, and Stirling Council archaeologist Dr Murray Cook. Dr Cook recalled that “to see the damage and to touch the spot sent a thrill down my spine – an incredible, tangible experience”.
Prince Charles Edward Stuart was the grandson of James II, who was King of England in 1685. He played a significant role in the 1745 Jacobite rising, which effectively ended after his defeat at The Battle of Culloden in April 1746. During his stay at Bannockburn House, Prince Charles met Sir Hugh’s niece, Clementina Walkinshaw, who nursed him back to health. Their romance continued for many years after the rising, and the pair had a daughter, Charlotte, Duchess of Albany
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