The Gun Room (cont'd) |
Around the walls may be seen various artifacts relating to the history of the
castle and its owners, including: a portrait of James I/VI and Queen Anne, a photocopy of the charter of confirmation of the grant of the lands of
Pitreavie to Henry Wardlaw, a photocopy of the document in which the Scottish Parliament ratified the
charter, a print of the castle as it was before 1885, a map of the battle of Pitreavie, a print showing the disposition of the British fleet at Trafalgar &
Blackwood's account of the battle, a precis of the Blackwood line, (on the wall in the fireplace) including a
mention of several members of the family who served with distinction in the
Armed Forces of the Crown and a cannon ball fired during the battle of Pitreavie, and discovered during
building work in the Air Force years. |
The Yett and Beggars' Seat |
The door to the 'Ladies' Powder Room' to the North of the Gun Room leads into
the west wing. Here in what was originally the guard chamber, may be seen the
great iron yett which guarded the entrance to the castle. The yett is formed of
iron bars, and constructed in an intricate interwoven fashion designed to
prevent intruders from taking it apart. Of equal interest is the little alcove
where the stone benches are now topped with foam cushions. This is the 'beggars
seat' part of the original guard chamber, sheltered from the elements but not
quite within the castle. Here the poor of the parish would sit, waiting for any
food remaining from the family meals. |
The Flag Room |
Returning to the reception hall, and ascending the stairs to the first floor,
the room directly ahead, known as the 'Flag Room' from the time when the
squadron standards were kept there. It is presently used as a television lounge,
but displays clear evidence of its original purpose: around the top of the oak
panelling may be seen carved quotations from the Bible. This was the Beveridge
family chapel, probably one of the last private chapels to be built in
Britain. |
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