Genealogy and History in Scotland

Elder Richard and Sister Carolyn Boden with Sister Jolley in the cemetery at Dunfermline Abbey

When we came to Scotland in September of 2013, we didn't realize we would be back less than a year later! We had seen where Robert the Bruce' heart was buried at Melrose Abbey, but had too little time to go on to Dunfermline to see the burial place for the 'rest of him'. Robert the Bruce, one of the most famous kings in Scottish lore, is a distant relative on Sister Jolley's side of the family. We're so proud they laid our cousin out in style!

King Robert's ornate resting place

The Pulpit with Robert the Bruce below

Robert I, commonly known as Robert the Bruce was King of Scots from 1306 until his death in 1329. Robert was one of the most famous warriors of his generation, eventually leading Scotland during the Wars of Scottish Independence against England. He fought successfully during his reign to regain Scotland's place as an independent nation, and is kindly remembered in Scotland as a national hero.

(Now some in Scotland are battling again for independence, but so far the "nays" are ahead.)

If you look up Robert the Bruce online at Wikipedia, you can see a Victorian depiction of Bruce...he appears to be one mean, cross-eyed and ugly hombre! If you see any family resemblance, don't tell us! Read on in Wikipedia to find out how and why Robert and his heart parted ways!