Plimoth Thom
Puritan Board Freshman
Most of my historical studies so far have been on the English Reformation and New England Puritans. But while doing some geneaological research of my Scottish ancestors I've discovered that the area they were from (Lanarkshire) was a hotbed of Covenanter activity. I know my Douglas ancestors were Presbyterian when they came to America and I believe some distant Douglas ancestors may have been involved in the Covenanter movement in Lanarkshire, I also have Dixon ancestors from Lanarkshire. This is the area the famous Cameronian regiment was from, which wore the Douglas plaid and the Heart of Bruce from the Douglas crest on their cap badges. I also came across an account of a Rev. Thomas Douglas preaching at a conventicle just before the Battle of Drumclog. As he was preaching word came that the enemy approched, and Douglas said "I have done, you have got the theory, now for the practice. You know your duty, self-defence is always lawful. But the enemy approaches." The Covenanter forces went on to defeat the "Bluidy Clavers."
So my question to those of you who have studied the Covenanters: What are the best historical books covering the Scottish Covenanters? I've heard of a few, but don't know if they're any good. I'd like to study this period of Scottish history as I continue to research my family history and any involvement my ancestors may have played in it.
So my question to those of you who have studied the Covenanters: What are the best historical books covering the Scottish Covenanters? I've heard of a few, but don't know if they're any good. I'd like to study this period of Scottish history as I continue to research my family history and any involvement my ancestors may have played in it.