A DOCUMENTARY uncovering an “exceptional” archaeological discovery that helps reveal secrets about the Glencoe Massacre will be released this week.
Created by History Hit, A Scottish Massacre – Unearthing The Secrets of Glencoe, delves into the discovery which shines new light on one of the Highlands' most notorious historical events and will premiere on the film firm's streaming service on November 14.
Historian and History Hit Founder, Dan Snow, presents the film which explores a newly unearthed hoard of coins by a team from the University of Glasgow and the National Trust for Scotland (NTS) which are linked to the massacre.
“It's so exciting when a new archaeological discovery ties in with famous historic events,” Snow said.
“Contemporary accounts tell us some details about the Glencoe Massacre, but many questions remain.”
The hoard was found hidden beneath the hearthstone by student archaeologist Lucy Ankers in the summer house of MacDonalds of Glencoe clan chieftain, Alasdair MacIain, who led his people until the massacre nearly wiped them out.
The massacre took place in Glencoe, Highlands, on February 13, 1692, where an estimated 30 members and associates of Clan MacDonald of Glencoe were killed by English government forces, allegedly for failing to pledge allegiance to the new monarchs, William II and Mary II.
A total of 36 coins were found inside a small pot placed beneath a fireplace stone and experts believe it may have been hidden by the MacDonald clan in the days leading up to the massacre or as they fled from government troops.
Snow said: “To hold something tangible from those terrible events, a pot of treasured coins tucked away for safekeeping and then forgotten for centuries, is extraordinary and brings you so much closer to this notorious and important story.
“This remarkable find sheds new light on a key moment in Scottish history.”
The documentary explains how each coin holds clues to the personal history and connections of MacIain, with several originating from regions he travelled to, such as France.
One coin, depicting Stuart King Charles II and pierced with a hole, may even signify Jacobite allegiance, as it was likely worn as a necklace during a time of intense political division in the Scottish Highlands, experts said.
Dr Eddie Stewart, who co-led the excavation, explained the significance of the coins and how his team helped bring to life a significant moment in Scottish history.
He said: “This discovery offers an amazing insight into the lives of Scottish Highland clan chiefs in the 17th century and their connections and negotiation of status.
“For the first time, this documentary explores what these coins mean to the story not only of Glencoe and the 1692 massacre but also the personal travels and mobility of the Highland nobility.
The production team at History Hit filmed on-site with the archaeology team and historic coin expert Jesper Ericsson, and the documentary reveals how analysis of the hoard provides new insights into the massacre and life in 17th-century Glencoe.
Professor Michael Given said each discovery helps historians better understand the trauma the people in Glen Coe endured during that period.
“What’s extraordinary about Glencoe is how a single dramatic moment in history can be captured in these everyday objects.
“A pot of coins hastily hidden under a fireplace, never to be retrieved, tells us of panic, death and loss. The archaeological evidence is also revealing a deep connection between the people of Glencoe and their land.
“When you understand this relationship you can better comprehend the true magnitude of the trauma they endured when their world was so violently upended in 1692 and their homes abandoned.
“Each artefact we uncover helps tell this complex story of community and loss.”
It is hoped that audiences will gain a vivid glimpse into the lives of Glencoe's residents at the time of the massacre through the documentary.
To watch the film, viewers can sign up for a 14-day free trial at historyhit.com/subscribe
