Staneyhill Tower House: A History of the Shairps Family Estate
The remnants of the Staneyhill tower house stand as a silent witness to the turbulent religious and social history of 17th-century Scotland. Originally constructed as a fortified residence, this site provides a glimpse into the lives of the landed gentry and the shifting fortunes of the families who once held dominion over the land.
The Origins and the Shairps Family
The tower house was first erected around 1630 for the Shairps family. Among its most notable associations was William Sharp of Staneyhill, the brother of James Sharp. James Sharp served as the Archbishop of St Andrews, a position of significant ecclesiastical power that eventually led to his tragic end; he was murdered by the Covenanters—a Scottish Presbyterian movement—in 1679.
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The Lost Waters of Maggie's Loch
In its prime, the estate featured a fine fountain, which was a mark of prestige and luxury for the era. This fountain was fed by water from the nearby Maggie's Loch. However, the landscape changed significantly in the 19th century when the loch was drained. Evidence of this historical water system remains, as farmers digging in the area have recovered old waterpipes.
Decline and Reuse
By the 18th century, the tower house had fallen out of use. Ownership eventually passed to the Earls of Hopetoun. During this period, the structure was largely dismantled, and many of its original building materials were salvaged and reused. It is believed that some of these materials may have been incorporated into the construction or renovation of Niddry Castle.
Preservation and Legal Status
Recognizing the historical importance of the site, the tower house was granted official protection in the 20th century. It became a scheduled monument—a site of national archaeological or historical importance—on October 24, 1935. Further designations were added to its protected status on October 9, 1998, ensuring the preservation of the remaining ruins for future study.
Key Facts
- Construction Date: Circa 1630.
- Original Owners: The Shairps family, specifically William Sharp.
- Notable Relative: James Sharp, Archbishop of St Andrews (murdered 1679).
- Water Source: Formerly supplied by Maggie's Loch (drained in the 19th century).
- Later Ownership: The Earls of Hopetoun.
- Legal Status: Scheduled monument since October 24, 1935.
| Period/Date | Event/Status |
|---|---|
| Circa 1630 | Tower house erected for the Shairps family |
| 1679 | Murder of James Sharp by Covenanters |
| 18th Century | Site falls out of use; ownership moves to Earls of Hopetoun |
| 19th Century | Maggie's Loch is drained |
| Oct 24, 1935 | Designated as a scheduled monument |
| Oct 9, 1998 | Additional designation granted |
Frequently Asked Questions
Who originally built the Staneyhill tower house?
The tower house was built around 1630 for the Shairps family, specifically for William Sharp of Staneyhill.
Who was James Sharp and why is he significant to this site?
James Sharp was the brother of William Sharp and served as the Archbishop of St Andrews. He is historically significant for his role in the church and his murder by the Covenanters in 1679.
What happened to the building materials of the tower house?
After the site fell out of use in the 18th century, the Earls of Hopetoun owned the property, and many of the building materials were reused, potentially at Niddry Castle.
What was the source of the estate's fountain?
The fountain derived its water from Maggie's Loch, which was later drained during the 19th century.
Is the site of the tower house protected today?
Yes, it has been a scheduled monument since October 24, 1935, with further designations added on October 9, 1998.