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The Regarde Bien

Issue No. 16




The Founding of the
Mullikine/Amuligane Clan Society

On Saturday, August 25th, 2001 the first meeting of what would become the Mullikine/Amuligane Clan Society took place at the Plaza Hotel, Salt Lake City Utah. The meeting was attended by representatives of several different family lines with various spellings of the surname. Thanks to Jan Gow, arrangements were made for accommodations within a short walking distance of the LDS Family History Center Library in the heart of Salt Lake City. The meeting provided a variety of topics of discussion and some time for everyone to get to know each other. The groundwork was laid for an organization structure with Jan Gow presenting examples of constitutions that other such family associations have used to define their purpose and functionality. Genealogy and the Internet was a topic presented by Mike Milliken. Alan Milliken presented an in depth presentation of the earliest mention of the family in Scottish records, an overview of how Scottish records are organized, and a detailed presentation of locations from ancient maps and how they translate to present-day locations in Scotland. The Society's first committee, dubbed "The Founding Committee", was also formed and the committee's first group photograph has been added to the Society's webpage.

John Amuligane
Third Laird of Blackmyre

After the Scots army had been heavily defeated at Pinkie, English garrisons were stationed at several places in southeast Scotland. The following year, with the aid of more than 6,000 French troops, the Scots won a series of decisive victories in the Lothians and Borders, and by early 1549, the last of the English garrisons left the country. The Exchequer Rolls of Scotland record that for nearly the space of one year, after the death of John Amuligane second laird, a precept of sasine had not been ‘taken up’ by his son and heir, also called John Amuligane, no doubt indicative of the harsh and turbulent effects of war on an already impoverish country. On 5th November 1548, the third laird was granted a royal precept of sasine for the relief the £10 lands of Crogo in the parish of Balmaclellan and £5 lands of Dalquhairn in the parish of Dalry. The minute of this transaction, written in Latin, has been transcribed and translated below:

The Steward of Kirkcudbright will be answerable for £10 of the rent of the five merk lands of Kago, being in the hands of the Queen for the space of one year last past the sasine not having been taken up and for £10 of relief of the lands and for £5 of rents of the two merk and half merk lands of Holm in Dalcharne of old extent together with their mills and fishings, lying in the parish of Balmaclellan and Dalry and within his Stewartry being in the hands of the Queen for the said period and for the above reason, and for £5 of relief of them; owed to the Queen by the sasine granted to John Amuligan, whose father died at Pinkiescleuch. Edinburgh 5th November 1548.
[Exchequer Rolls (Translation from Latin) Vol. 18, p. 452]

The laird is known to have been one of the baillies of James Hepburn, fourth earl of Bothwell, who for a short time was proprietor of the barony of Earlstoun in the parish of Dalry. In 1565, the laird styled “John Amilligane of Blakmyre” was directed by the Earl to infeft Alexander Sinclair in Earlstoun, in the one merkland of Todstone [1]. In 1575, we find “John Amilligane of Blakmyre”, Dungal McMichael in Lorg, John Williamson in Waterhead, Alexander Sinclair now in Glen, John McMichael in Blackcraig and Hector McMath burgess in Edinburgh all owing sums money to Christian McCourtie, sometime spouse of William McClammeroch in Holm of Dalquhairn. By her last will and testament, Christian appointed her spouse, William McClammeroch, and “John Amilligane” of Blackmyre, executors to her estate in the presence of Patrick Hislop in Holm, Patrick Wrytman in Holm and Andrew McClammeroch son of the Downie McClammeroch. She died several days later on 15th February at Holm of Dalquhairn [2]. Her will has preserved the names of three of laird Amuligane’s tenants, William McClammeroch, Patrick Hislop and Patrick Wrytman, all tenants in Holm of Dalquhairn.

The Sinclairs of Glen, which bounds the land of Dalquhairn to the west, had been proprietors of the land of Glen in the barony of Earlstoun, probably since the family first gained a footing in Galloway sometime after the fall of the Douglases in 1455. One branch of the family acquired the barony of Earlstoun and another the land of Auchenfranco in the parish of Lochrutton. It is worth remarking that Alexander Mullikin, one of the servitors of George, Earl of Caithness, in 1556, settled on the Earl’s northern estate in Caithness [3]. It is possible Alexander may have been one of the sons of the second laird, or a kinsman, related through another branch of Amuliganes, who lived at Auchenfranco, next to the Sinclair family in Lochrutton. It is also worth observing that the third laird of Blackmyre is styled ‘laird Amuligane’ in an old tack (lease) dated 20th July 1572. By this tack, John Maitland of Auchengessel purchased the rights to the teinds sheaves of the parishes of Penpont and Tynron from Thomas, Commendator of the Abbey of Holywood, for certain lands “which are now in the said persons own hands, viz. Auchingaschill, Auchinbanzie, 100s. land of Bagrawis, Auchinfathe, Tibberstoun, Messingeris lands, to wit, the layrd Amvligane and the laird Makcallis lands, Cloyngavies, &, the 40s. land of Penpont and Grenane” [4].

In the Forman-Workman Heraldic Manuscript of 1566, preserved in the Lyon’s Office in Edinburgh, there is a coat of arms bearing the surname of Mullikine. It is depict as - Argent, three demi-lyons rampant gules, issuing out of two bars wavy Azure two of the uppermost and one out of the undermost. The blazon or description may be given as: the field is painted argent - silver: the charge, three demi-lyons painted gules - red: and two bars wavy Azure - blue. The third laird is the only known Mullikine alias Amuligane in Scotland to have held lands directly from the Scottish crown, and as a crown vassal and landowner, he would have been required by law to possess a coat of arms. The Manuscript was compiled by Sir Robert Forman of Luthrie, Lord Lyon, as a general register of arms and contained many arms registered before 1566. It is very unlikely the Mullikine coat of arms dates any early than 1524 and in my opinion, was registered before the Lord Lyon by John second of Blackmyre. It was the practice of nobles and lairds alike to have their arms engraved in stone over the doorway of their dwelling house. If as suspected, Blackmyre House was built by the third laird, the arms of Mullikine would have been depict above his door way.

The Reformation of Scotland began on 11th May 1559 in the old church of St. John in Perth following John Knox’s famous sermon ‘vehement against idolatry’, owes much to the influence of the lairds and burgesses. It was to these men that the great nobles and lords turned to when Mary of Guise, the Queen Regent, sought to suppress the popular revolt [5]. From all corners of the Lowlands came an army of nobles and lairds, calling themselves the ‘Faith Congregation of Christ Jesus in Scotland’, to wield the sword of just defence against the crown. The nobles that lead the revolt and championed it’s cause the following year in the Scottish Parliament, included Lord James Stewart, a half-brother of Queen Mary, the Earls of Argyle, Bothwell, Morton, Glencairn, Eglinton and Marr, and the Lords Ochiltree, Boyd, Ruthven and Maitland to name only a few. These were indeed momentous times unparalleled in Scottish history before and after: before it, Scotland was a Catholic state, after it, Protestant and independent of Rome [6]. The third laird became a Protestant and later the servitor of the most radical Protestant in Scotland, William, Lord Ruthven and Earl of Gowrie.

During the minority of James VI (1567-1625), Scotland was governed by four successive Regents, the Protestant Earls of Moray, Lennox, Marr and Morton, until the young King was able to rule himself in 1578. In that year, the third laird’s kinsman, Cuthbert Amuligane of Dempsterton, was found guilty by the Privy Council of the “filthy” crime of adultery. This was no ordinary case, for it involved the spouse of Roger Kirkpatrick of Closeburn, Elizabeth Hamilton, the daughter of James Hamilton of Stanehouse, Provost of Edinburgh and Director of Chancery [7]. The affair began about 1576, when the couple were caught in the very act within the Laird of Closeburn’s manor house. Despite being admonished by the Council in 1577, the illicit affair continued and were seen at different times indulging each other’s company in Edinburgh and other parts of Scotland. Three men stood surety for Cuthbert, John Hamilton, parson of Crawfordjohn, and ‘John and Cuthbert Amullikin’, servants of Lord Ruthven [8]. This noble had been appointed Treasurer for Scotland in 1571 and was later, created Earl of Gowrie by the young King in 1581. A servitor was usually a close confidant or person in a subordinate office, suggesting John and Cuthbert were either employed at the Treasury or were members of the Earl’s household. Who then were John and Cuthbert Amullikin?

The answer to this question partly lies in one unsuspecting clue that points to the third laird being one of the Earl’s servitors. On 19th September 1582, we find him named along side the Earl of Gowrie in a decree granted to John Maxwell, Earl of Morton, at the sheriff court of Dumfries. By this decree, John Maitland of Auchengassel, Marion McCall of Eshetries, John Maitland her spouse, “John Mulikane” of Blakmyre, William, Earl of Gowrie, the king's treasurer and Mr David M'Gill of Nesbit, the king's advocate, were prohibited from troubling the Earl of Morton’s tenants in the land of Greenholme, which lies in the parish Morton [9]. John Maitland, laird of Auchengassel, was a near kinsman of William Maitland, Lord of Lethington and Secretary of State to Mary, Queen of Scots, and his younger brother, John Maitland who was appointed Chancellor of Scotland in 1586 by King James. Both Gowrie and Leithington, held two of the highest offices within the realm. Leithington had also been a close confidant to the Queen. To have been a servitor to the king’s treasurer implies by definition, a person of quality and good standing, a position usually held by men of lessor rank than Lord.

On 23rd August 1582, in what later became known as the ‘Raid of Ruthven’, the Earls of Gowrie and Marr and the Master of Glamis, the principal conspirators, abducted the young King James and kept him under house arrest at Ruthven Castle in parish of Methven, the seat of the Earls of Gowrie in Perthshire. For the next two years the young King was held at Ruthven Castle, whilst Gowrie and his co-conspirators held the reins of power. The Earl and his henchmen were all staunch Protestants and are said to have abducted the young King, as they feared his neglect for ‘Christ’s true church’ and his misguided overtures towards Emse Stewart, his Catholic cousin, who had been plotting to restore Catholicism. After his escape, the King pardoned the Earl, but the Scottish Parliament being less lenient, had him executed at Stirling in May 1584. It is significant that in the only two surviving documents that record the name of John Amuligane alias Amullikin between 1582 and 1584, both place this John in the company of Lord Ruthven. The identity of ‘Cuthbert Amullikin’, servitor of Lord Ruthven is less certain. He appears to have either been the father of Cuthbert Amuligane in Dempsterton, or one of the third laird’s brothers a point discussed more fully in Issue #14 of the Regarde Bien.

There is some suggestion the laird also held land in Ayrshire, where Robert Amuligane of Heateth in the parish of Mauchline, appointed laird ‘Amuligane of Blackmyre, elder,’ Robert Crawford of Smyddieshaw, John Gemmell notary and Adam Mathie in Orchard, overseers of his wife, Marion McKerrall, and their children, on 28th September 1581. It seems very likely, Robert was the third laird's younger brother. Robert’s last will and testament was registered before the Commissariot of Edinburgh on 22nd March 1585, suggesting his will may have been registered by the laird [10]. By then, Thomas Mullikin alias Amuligane of Dumfries had become an established merchant-burgess in Edinburgh, and agent for a number of Dumfriesshire merchants, exporting goods to the Low Countries of Europe. In Ayrshire, there is a small wood called Blackmire Wood set on the grounds of the old farm of Drumbae in the parish of Maybole, which in 1518 is known to have been occupied by John Mullikin, and later by Thomas Mullikin alias Amuligane. It seems very likely, that Thomas was either the father or brother of John Mullikin in Auchmillan in the parish of Mauchline, who acquired part of the lands of Auchmillan sometime before they year 1555, from the monks of Melrose Abbey [11].

It would appear the third laird was also the elder brother of “Janet Mullikin”, sometime spouse of Patrick Hislop in Holm of Dalquhairn, who died 19th August 1583. Her will and that of her husband, Patrick, who died in September 1586, were registered at the Commissariot Court of Edinburgh by their daughter Beatrice Hislop, and her spouse, Thomas McMichael elder, burgess of Edinburgh. Amongst the debts owed by Patrick, at the time of his death in 1586, there was due to “John Mullikin laird of Blakmyre” the sum of £13. 6s. 8d., for his share of the mails in Holm of Dalquhairn [12]. The auld third laird married Margaret McMath, daughter of John McMath of Castle Gilmore in the parish of Durrisdeer. By his last will and testament, given up by himself on 29th November 1588, John McMath appointed as his executors, Janet Hunter, his wife, James McMath, his son, and John Crichton of Carco, James Hunter of Ballaggan, “John Mulligane of Blakmyre”, James Hunter in Drumschinnoch and John McMath burgess of Edinburgh, his brother [13]. He died the following month in December 1588. By his marriage to Margaret, the third laird had six sons and one known daughter, whose names are given below:

  1. James Mullikin, heir apparent of Blackmyre and discussed below.

  2. Thomas Mullikin, merchant burgess of Edinburgh. He married Janet Mullikin, daughter of Thomas Mullikin alias Amuligane of Edinburgh in 25th March 1600. The following year, he was admitted burgess and guild brother of Edinburgh on 14th April 1601 by right of his marriage to Janet. She died in the month August 1623; Thomas probably died in the winter of 1633. In the Baptismal register of Edinburgh, without exception, Thomas and Janet's surname is spelt as Mullikin.

    1. Helen Mullikin baptized 28th December 1600, witnessed by Alexander McMath.
    2. John (sic. Johnne) Mullikin baptized 25th April 1602, witnessed by Thomas Mullikin and Johnne McCubbine merchants.
    3. James Mullikin baptized 30th August 1603, witnessed by James Thomson, minister of Edinburgh, and David Guthrie, advocate.
    4. Helen Mullikin baptized 20th March 1606, witnessed by Thomas Mullikin merchant.
    5. Janet Mullikin baptized 11th June 1607, witnessed by Rogarson Macpherson? She married James Ramsay, skinner, on 4th November 1629.
    6. Thomas Mullikin (twin) baptized 10th September 1609, witnessed by Thomas McMichael and Martin McQharge.
    7. William Mullikin (two) baptized on 10th September 1609, witnessed by William Heron and Robert Smart, merchants.
    8. Catherine Mullikin baptized on 24th April 1611, witnessed by James Thomson, minister of Edinburgh, and Alan Donald.
    9. Marion Mullikin baptized 6th May 1613, witnessed by William Heron and Thomas McMichael.
    10. Alexander Mullikin baptized on 14th April 1614, witnessed by William Heron and James Wright.

  3. Abraham Mullikin, merchant in Holm of Dalquhairn. He died in July 1602 intestate i.e. without leaving a will. His brothers “James and Robert Amuligane” were appointed executors dative to his testament. Thomas Mullikin younger of Edinburgh acted as cautioner [14]. Abraham appears to have died unmarried.

  4. John Mullikin is mentioned in several documents and is styled “John Mulligan” in Holm of Dalquhairn in 1633. He appears to have died by 1637, when Robert Mullikin, at the hand of the notary public, signed a petition against the introduction of the English common prayer book.

  5. Robert Mullikin may be the same “Robert Mulligan in Polthestrie” [Plifferie!] in 1618. He was still alive in 1637, when as “Robert Milligane in Holme of Dalquhaine” he signed a petition against the introduction of the English prayer book.

  6. Marion Mullikin married George Dunbar of Knockschinnoch in the parish of Cummock, Ayshire, in August 1602. She died in November 1614, leaving five young children John, George, Margaret, Bessie and Sara Dunbar.

In what must have been one of the third laird's last duties, "John Muligyn of Blakmyre” along with John Dunbar of Pollnaskie, Duncan MacCaddam, burgess of Ayr and John Sinclair in Glen, witnessed a charter, dated 21st May 1594, granted by James Sinclair of Glen in favour of his daughter Margaret, and her spouse, George Sinclair, son of the deceased John Sinclair of Doleistoun, for his merkland of Glen, the half merkland of Strahanna, one merkland of Todstone with a house in St. John’s of Clauchan, held in superiority by Andrew, Lord Stewart of Ochiltree in Ayrshire [14]. Given the number of charters etc., witnessed by the laird in his lifetime on behalf of the Sinclairs of Glen, one wonders if his mother had been a Sinclair. The auld laird of Blackmyre, unlike his father and grandfather before him, lived to be an old man and died in the winter of 1594-95 having lived a fairly full life. His sons, like their father, would also become zealous supporters of the Reformation and Presbyterianism. Later, when Charles I (1625-1649), a man who lacked the shrewdness and the political astuteness that characterized his father’s reign, sought to impose Episcopalianism on the Scots, they would fiercely oppose it’s introduction and adopt the principals of the National Covenant of Scotland.
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1. Reid, R.C: The Earlstoun Charters, Vol. 64, p. 38. The Sinclairs of Earlstoun are reputed to have descended from the Sinclairs of Hermiston in east Lothian, whilst the earls of Caithness sprang from the principal family granted the land of Roslyn near Edinburgh.
2. Reid, R.C.: Edinburgh Commissariot (ELD), Vol. 161, p. 52.
3. Beveridge, J. & Donaldson, G. (editors): The Register of the Privy Seal of Scotland 1556-1567, Vol. V, p. 507.
4. Drumlanrig MS (HMC), 15th Report, appendix, part VII, p. 75.
5. M’Crie, Rev. Thomas: The Life of John Knox (1976), p.128-130.
6. Smout, T.C.: A History of the Scottish People 1560-1830, p.67.
7. T.D.G.N.H.A.S 1951-52, Vol. XXX, P 100-103. Elizabeth Hamilton was the daughter of James Hamilton of Stanehouse by his first wife Grizzel Sempill, eldest daughter of Robert, third Lord Sempill. This woman was noted for her remarkable infidelity and was mistress to James Hamilton of Archbishop of St. Andrews.
8. Pitcairns, Robert: Ancient Criminal Trials in Scotland, Vol. I, p.78 & 80. See also Hamilton, Lieu-Col. George: The House of Hamilton (A History of), p. 282-283. Although called parson of Crawford in Pitcairn’s book, John Hamilton was in fact parson of Crawfordjohn and owned the land of Gilkerscleuch in the same parish in Lanarkshire.
9. Dumfries Sheriff Court Book 1577-83, TDGNHAS, Vol. XII, p. 202.
10. Commissariot of Edinburgh (NAS), CC8/8/13, RH3-11-149.
11. Exchequer (NAS), E.49/3-4.
12. Commissariot of Edinburgh, Registered April 2, 1603, CC8/837.
13. Adams, P. W. L.: A History of the Douglas (1921, app. B. no. 19.
14. Reid, R.C: The Earlstoun Charters (ELD, Vol. 64, p. 63.

James Mullikin
Fourth Laird of Blackmyre

For the purpose of this article, I have chosen to use the variant surname Mullikin, except where indicated, from this point onwards to avoid needless confusion over the spelling of the surname, which in the original sources, vary between Amuligane, Muligane, Mulligan, Milliken and Milligan. James the fourth laird was probably born in the 1560s, and for much of his early life, he appears to have lived in the shadow of his father. The fourth laird was married at least twice. The name of his first wife is unknown, but may have been the daughter of James and Janet Gordon of Crogo. Their son, Thomas Gordon of Crogo, and his two sons, James Gordon of Crogo and Adam Gordon in Holm of Dalquhairn, frequently appear as witnesses to a number of charters relating to the Mullikins. In 1607, the laird’s son, James Mullikin apparent of Blackmyre witnessed an instrument of sasine for the 16s. 8d. land in Holm of Dalquhairn granted in favour of Helen Douglas, the lawful daughter of John Douglas of Arkland in the parish of Penpont, by her newly wedded husband, Thomas Gordon of Crogo [1]. The laird married secondly, Barbara Glendinning, the lawful daughter of William Glendinning of Nether Laggan, which lies in the parish of Parton, in the month of April 1625. At the time of his marriage to Barbara, all his known sons were adults, suggesting this marriage took place late in life. His known sons are:

  1. James Mullikin succeeded his father as fifth laird of Blackmyre in 1633, see below.

  2. Thomas Mullikin was granted an annual rent of 80 merks Scots to be uplifted from the 40-shilling land of Nether Barskeoch in the parish of Kells in 1633.

  3. John Mullikin is described as “John Mulligan son of James Mulligan elder of Blackmyre” in 1625. He was living in Holm of Dalquhairn in 1633.

  4. William Mullikin living in Barmark in 1625, when he is described as ‘brother-german’ of James fifth laird of Blackmyre.

The fourth laird appears in a number of documents from 1595 onwards. The Exchequer Rolls of Scotland preserve a record of the precept of sasine granted to “James Amuligan” on 10th April 1595, of all and whole of the five merkland of Crogo and two and half merkland of Holm of Dalquhairn of old extent with their mills and fishing rights. It is interesting to note that laird only had to pay £15 relief, the same sum paid by his father in 1548.

Exchequer account of the Steward of Kirkcudbright answerable for £15of payment of relief of all and whole the 5 merkland of Crogo and all and whole the 2 merkland with half part land of Holm of Dalquhairn of old extent with their mills and fishing lying within the parishes of Balmaclellan and Dalry; owed to the king by the sasine granted to James Amuligan. At Edinburgh April 10, 1595, 28th year of the King's reign.
[Exchequer Rolls of Scotland (in Latin), Responde Books, Vol. 23]

In the last will and testament of Katherine Stewart, spouse to John Douglas of Arkland, who died on 10th March 1595, the names of “Thomas and Abraham Mullikine” appear along with John McCall, Thomas Hunter and John McKittrick her servants [2]. Thomas and Abraham may have been the laird’s brothers. John Douglas of Arkland was the father of Helen Douglas, spouse of Thomas Gordon of Crogo. The laird was one of a number of men, Arthur Tait, “George Amuligane in Mochrum”, Alexander McDungall, merchant in St. John’s Clauchan, John Gilkerstane, Alexander Gordon in Clauchan and “James Amuligane in Blackmyre” who owed Adam Robson younger of Shaw in the parish of Parton sums of money in 1596 [3]. As “James Mulligan of Blackmyre”, he was one of fifteen jurors who on 23rd January 1607 heard the case against Sir Robert Gordon of Lochinver and Sir William Grierson of Lag cautioners of the disgraced John, Lord Maxwell. They were liable each for the huge debt of £20, 000 owed by Maxwell to James earl of Abercorn, and Sir John Hamilton of Lettrick, knight [4].

The fourth laird appears to have been a near relation of “John Amullikin” in Holm of Daltallochan, then in the parish of Kells and later annexed to form part of Carsphairn in 1645. This John is first mentioned in the last will and testament of George McMillan of Holm of Daltallochan, given up before George McMillan in Holm, John Amullikin in Holm and John Grierson in Longford on 30th September 1588. By his will, George appointed his sons, Fergus and John, his executors, and left his tack and kindness of Holm to Fergus, his eldest son, and gave his wife and John his youngest son, the half merkland of Knockgray [5]. John is mentioned next in an Instrument of Renunciation, dated 10th November 1614, by Thomas Gordon in Benbreck and Janet McGachan, his spouse, in favour of Sir William Grierson of Lag, for the annual rent of 100 merks worth of the five merkland of Holm of Daltallochan, occupied by Fergus McMillan and “John Milligane” in 1605 [6]. By another Instrument of Renunciation dated 6th November 1631, Janet McGachan relict of Thomas Gordon in Benbreck, and now spouse of Alexander Stewart, Marie Gordon, her daughter, with the consent of her spouse “John Mulligan” and Katherine and Agnes Gordon, her daughters, granted William Gordon of Glenholm the 50 merks annual rent of the lands of Glenholm and ‘Pilyrynleyis’ in the barony of Earlstoun, contained in a sasine dated 27th October 1605 [7]. As neither Marie Gordon nor her spouse John Mulligan could sign their own names, “James Mulligan of Blakmyre” witnessed their signature at the pen of the public notary and acted as their cautioner.

It seems very likely, that “Alexander Milligane” in Woodhead farm, which lies next to Holm of Daltallochan, was the brother or son of John Milligane in Holm of Daltallochan. Alexander and Quintin McAdam, son of Gilbert McAdam of Waterhead, witnessed a bond between Gilbert Acannan in Muirdroch and John McMillan of Bridgemark, registered on 24th April 1609 in the books of the Privy Council and Session [8]. On 28th February 1611, at Edinburgh, the Privy Council heard the complaint of David McAdam of Brownhill, and John and George, his sons, that in December 1603, ‘John Grierson in Longford and “Thomas Milligane” in Woodhead, with others, all armed with certain weapons, fiercely attacked David McAdam and his sons at Darnscaw, and drawing their swords, mutilated the said David on the arm, and gave each of his son a deadly wound to the head’. As none of the accused appeared in person to answer the charge, the Council denounced them. Thomas appears to have been later cleared of any charges, and next we find him, on 13th September, personally acting as cautioner and surety for James Grier who was obliged to present Robert Sloan, servitor of John Grierson of Longford, at the next Court of the Border Commissioners to answer the charge of theft on 17th October [9]. It is my opinion that Alexander Milligan in Woodhead farm was the ancestor of Alexander Milliken alias Milligan of Meadowhead farm, which lies not far from Woodhead and next to Darnscaw, who was the father of John Milligan Esq. of Westmoreland County in the State of Pennsylvania.

Reference has already been made in Issue #15 to laird’s role as cautioner of Fergus Milligan of Dempsterton, who failed to appear before the Court of the Border Commissioners at Jedburgh in 1622-23. The fourth laird is known to have been actively engaged in trade with several merchants, including David Bell, merchant burgess of Dumfries [10]. As “James Amuligan of Blakmyre” he owed Agnes Lawrie, David Bell’s spouse, the sum of £29 6s. 8d. in 1630. Perhaps further research might cast more light on his business dealings, which appear to have centered mainly on livestock farming. By the time of his death in the winter of 1632-33, he was laird of a number of properties, covering the 30-shilling land of Blackmyre in the parish of Penpont, the five merkland of Crogo (also called Craigok) in the parish of Balmaclellan, which comprised the four merkland of Barmark and Drumwhirn and half merkland of Littlecrelath, the two and half merkland of Holm of Dalquhairn (Upper Holm) in the parish of Dalry, and the annual rents of the 40-shilling land of Nether Barskoch in the parish of Kells and 50 merks of the 20-shilling land of Nether Laggan in the parish of Parton.
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1. Cunningham’s Protocol Book 1581-1611 (ELD, R. C. Reid, p. 35.
2. Adams, P. W. L.: A History of the Douglas (1921, app. B. no. 29.
3. Commissariot of Edinburgh (ELD), R. C. Reid, Vol. 162, p. 43.
4. The Register of the Great Seal of Scotland 1609-1620, Vol. VII, p. 121.
5. Commissariot of Edinburgh (ELD), R. C. Reid, Vol. 160, p. 166.
6. Lag Charters 1400-1720 (SRS), no. 190.
7. General Register of Sasines, November 1, 1631, RS1/32/142-144.
8. The Register of Privy Council of Scotland 1607-1610, Vol. VIII, p. 696.
9. Ditto, 1610-1613, Vol. IX, p. 141 & 250.
10.Adams, P. W. L. A History of the Douglas (1921), p. 740, no. 47.

James Mullikin
Fifth Laird of Blackmyre

The fifth laird, styled “James Muligane apparent of Blakmyre” is first mentioned in an Instrument of Sasine, dated 13th October 1607, granted in favour of Helen Douglas lawful daughter of John Douglas of Arkland in the parish of Penpont by her newly wedded husband, Thomas Gordon of Crogo, son and heir apparent of James Gordon of Crogo [1]. James married Isabel McGachan, probably the daughter of James McGachan of Dalwhat in May 1618, and with the consent of his father, “James Mulligan elder of Blakmyre” granted Isabel an annual liferent to be uplifted from the 16-shilling land of Holm of Dalquhairn, occupied by Thomas Gordon of Crogo [2]. On 27th April 1625, at Barmark, James granted a sasine in favour of his father, “James Mulligan elder of Blakmyre” and his wife Barbara Glendinning of the annual rent of 40 merks from the one merkland of “Oralochis”, probably Littlecrelath, lying in the parish of Balmaclellan. In the Dumfries Register of Sasines, which dates from about the beginning of the 1600s onwards and covers Kirkcudbrighshire and Dumfriesshire, there is a collection of sasines registered by James, detailing the steps taken to secure his father’s estate after his death in the winter of 1632-33.

May 14, 1633: Service of heir in favour of James Millighame of Blackmyre, heir of James Millighame of Blackmyre, father, in the five merk land of Craigok [Crogo] and two and half merk land of Holm of Dalqhairn old extent in the parishes of Balmaclellan and Dalry respective. Kirkcudbright xiii 92.
[Index to Service of Heir (NAS), No 200]

June 7, 1633: Instrument of sasine following on a precept of Clare Constat dated May 30, from the King’s Chancery, after an inquest and retour, which stated that it was known (compertum est.) that James Mulligan now of Blakmyre was the heir of his father James Mulligan of Blakmyre of the five merkland of Craigok [Crogo] and two and a half merkland of Holm of Dalquhairn lying in the parishes of Balmaclellan and Dalry respectively, which he holds of the King as chief. These lands have been in the King’s hands for one term or thereabouts without sasine being taken up. Witnessed by James Gordon of Crogo, Matthew Greir in Barmark, James Greir his son, George Logan in Stroanpatrick, James Ramsay in Bryend Oha? John Mulligan in Holm, Robert Mulligan there and Thomas Mulligan brother of James.
[Dumfries Register of Sasines (NAS), June 8, 1633, RS22/3/234]

June 26, 1633: Instrument of sasine granted by James Mulligan of Blakmyre following an agreement dated June 12, 1633 between himself on the one hand and Edward Gordon elder in Stranfasket [in the parish of Kells] and Edward his son and apparent heir on the other, to give infeftment heritable state and sasine to Edward Gordon elder in Stranfasket in life rent and to Edward his son in fee in the lands of the four merkland of Barmark and Drumwhirn and the half merkland of Littlecrelath in the parish of Balmaclellan. Witnessed by John Hanying in Drumwhirn, Matthew Grier in Barmark, James Grier his lawful son, John Grier his servant and John Chapman servant to the said James Mulligan of Blakmyre.
[Dumfries Register of Sasines (NAS), July 1, 1633, RS22/3/238v]

July 9, 1633: Instrument of sasine taken on a precept of Clare Constat drawn up at Over Knockgray on April 25, 1633, by Sir Robert Grierson of Lag, superior of Blakmyre, in favour of James Mulligan of Blakmyre younger, son and heir of the deceased James Mulligan of Blakmyre for in all and whole the lands of Blakmyre extending to the thirty shilling land of old extent, in the parish of Penpont and sheriffdom of Dumfries. The precept of Clare Constat was witnessed by John McMillan of Brochloch, John Grierson and Robert Neilson servants to the said Sir Robert Grierson. The sasine was witnessed by Thomas Matheson in Tererran, James McCall in Penpont, Robert Smith in Ladywell and David Hunter in Blakmyre.
[Dumfries Register of Sasines (NAS), July 10, 1633, RS22/3/240v]

July 11, 1633: Instrument of sasine granted by James Mulligan of Blakmyre in favour of Janet Ross his spouse of an annual rent to be uplifted from the two and a half merkland of Holm of Dalquhairn in the parish of Dalry and Stewartry of Kirkcudbright and witnessed by James Mulligan younger of Blakmyre, John Gordon of Barskeoch, John Sinclair in Knockgray, Adam Gordon in Holm and George McAdam in Holm.
[Dumfries Register of Sasines (NAS), July 12, 1633, RS22/3/241]

November .27, 1633: Instrument of sasine taken on a precept of Clare Constat dated July 17, 1633, directing George Mulligan in Clauchan baillie of James Mulligan of Blakmyre, superior, of an annual rent of 80 merks to be uplifted from the 40 shilling land of Nether Barskeoch in the parish of Kells, in favour of Thomas Mulligan, lawful son of the deceased James Mulligan of Blakmyre and brother german of James Milligan of Blakmyre. Witnesses included “my son” James Mulligan junior of Blakmyre and John Mulligan in Holm “my” brother german.
[Dumfries Register of Sasines (NAS), Dec. 1, 1633, RS22/3/272v]

These documents detail the various legal transactions made by James Mullikin fifth laird, who in the first instance had to establish his hereditary right as heir lawful to his father, James Mullikin, at an inquest held before a jury sometime prior to 14th May 1633. They found ‘that it was known (compertum est.) that James Mullikin now of Blakmyre was the heir of his father James Mullikin of Blakmyre of the five merkland of Craigok [Crogo] and two and a half merkland of Holm of Dalquhairn lying in the parishes of Balmaclellan and Dalry respectively, which he holds of the King as chief’. Thus, the jury having found that James was his father’s legal heir, their decision was retoured (returned) to the King's Chancery and his name formally registered in the Service of Heirs on 14th May. We are also told that the lands had been in the King’s hands for one term or thereabouts without sasine being taken up. In other words, James Mullikin the elder, had died about one term prior to the precept of Clare Constat being issued, that is, the date at which rent or interest is payable, such as Whitsunday (May 28) and Martinmas (November 28). A precept of Clare Constat from the King’s Chancery was subsequently granted on 30th May, allowing James to take sasine of his father’s lands, which he did formally on 7th June 1633.

By an Agreement dated 12th June 1633, we also learn that James Mullikin granted a hereditary sasine of the liferents for the lands of Crogo, comprising the four merkland of Barmark and Drumwhirn and half merkland of Littlecrelath, which effectively disposed of these lands to Edward Gordon in Stranfasket in the parish of Kells and his son Edward Gordon, heir apparent. The property was never recovered. These documents also give the names of some of his tenants and servants, such as, Adam Gordon in Holm of Dalquhairn, brother of James Gordon of Crogo, George McAdam in Holm of Dalquhairn, Thomas Hunter in Blackmyre, Matthew Grier in Barmark, John Hanying in Drumwhirn and John Chapman, servant to the laird. We also learn that the laird’s first wife, Isabel McGachan died sometime prior to 1633, and that he married secondly, Janet Ross, whose background is unknown. Only the names of two of James’s children have been recovered to date, though, I am almost certain, he had others:

  1. James Mullikin heir apparent of Blackmyre predeceased his father at an unknown date prior to November 1656. He married Margaret Douglas and had children.

  2. John Mullikin along with John Douglas of Stanehouse purchased the land of Blackmyre and Holm of Dalquhairn in 1661. He settled at Farnane in the parish of Urney and barony of Loughtee in County Cavan, Ireland, and was servitor to James Maxwell a magistrate of County Cavan.

  3. Thomas Millikin merchant burgess of Ayr may have been another son by the laird’s second marriage to Janet Ross. This is not conclusive. He purchased from John’s hereditary right to the lands of Blackmyre and Holm of Dalquhairn in 1673.

In 1637, the Presbytery of Kirkcudbright submitted a petition to the Lords of Council against the introduction of the English Book of Common Prayer into the Church of Scotland. The names of six Mullikins from the parishes of Dalry and Kells are listed. “Robert Milligane” in Bridgemark appears to have signed the petition probably at St. John’s Clauchan of Dalry, along with “Roger Milligane” [in John’s Clauchan?], who signed at the hand of Robert McMichael, notary public, because he couldn’t write. Next we find, “Robert Milligane” in Holme of Dalquhairn, George McAdam in Holm of Dalquhairn together with “John Milligane” in Cairninnows, and further down the page, “James and Roger Milligane” in Arndarroch, all signing the petition at the hand of John McAdam, notary public, possibly at Carsphain, where a small church had been erected about the year 1636 [3]. Robert Mullikin and George McAdam in Holm of Dalquhairn are both named in two of the above documents, the rest are unknown. As there is no mention of John Mullikin in Holm of Dalquhairn, there is a distinct possibility John Mullikin in Cairninnows is the same man. He is grouped alongside Robert Mullikin and George McAdam, suggested he might have acquired a leasehold of land in Cairninnows by 1637. Of course, there is one notably absence from this list, namely, James Mullikin of Blackmyre!

In the Ancient Valuation Roll of the Stewartry of Kirkcudbright, compiled in 1642, the Commissioner responsible for land valuation had little difficulty listing the names of all the heritors and landowners for the district of Carsphairn, that is, except the laird of Blackmyre. Thus, we find the following entry given: “The Heirs of [blank] Milligan has pertaining them the lands of Over Holm of Dalquhairne, and pays to him two hundred and three-score pounds”. However, in the supplication presented to the Estates of Parliament by the heritors of the four score merklands within the parishes of Kells and Dalry in 1645, we find the names of both “James Mullakane of Blakmyre” and James Gordon of Crogo listed as heritors equally between them of the five merkland of Dalquhairn. The supplication requested that a parish be erected to serve the parishioners within the four score merkland, which the Estates by an act of Parliament erected and called the Kirk and parish of Carsphairn. Next, at the burgh court of Kirkcudbright on 28th January, 1646, we find “Marioun McMichen present be the aith of Jeane Gordoune to mak payment to the said Jeane and David Murry her spous of the soune of xxxs quhilk was award to James Mulligane of Blakmyre and was arreistit in the handis of the said Marious because she had ane sword pertaining to the said Blakmyre quhilk was arreistit and quhilk arreistment to the said Marious brak” [4]. Why was the laird's sword stolen in the burgh of Kirkcudbright?

In 1644, an army of 20, 000 Scottish Covenanters lead by Alexander Leslie, earl of Leven, crossed into England to support the parliamentarians in their campaign against Charles I, who suffered a huge defeat at the battle of Marston Moor. Meantime, Charles sent the royalist Earl of Montrose into Soctland, where in September 1645 he defeated the Covenanters at Tippermuir. Having gained a decisive victory, Montrose confidently advanced south into the Lowlands, where resistance from the Covenanters appeared initially apathetic. However, in Kirkcudbrightshire, a Covenanting stronghold, steps were already under way to raise a regiment under the command of Robert Gordon, fourth Viscount of Kenmure. In September 1645, this regiment joined the main Scottish army then on its return home. In that same month, the Scottish army encountered remnants of Montrose’s army at Philiphaugh near Selkirk, where they inflicted a terrible slaughter on the royalist soldiers, with Montrose only escaping narrowly with his own life. By the end of the year, Viscount Kenmure’s regiment was back in Kirkcudbrightshire. One can only surmise that the aged James Mullikin was amongst the Viscount’s ranking officers and soldiers, who for a time stayed at the town of Kirkcudbright. Ten years later, the fifth laird died in November 1656, when Scotland was still under Crowellian occupation.
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1. Cunningham’s Protocol Book 1581-1611 (ELD, R. C. Reid, p. 35.
2. Dumfries Register of Sasines (NAS), July 11, 1621, RS22/1/110.
3. Register of the Privy Council (NAS), Vol. 6, 2nd series, p709-715.
4. Kirkcudbright Town Council Records 1606-1658 (ELD), p. 766.

James Mullikin
Heir Apparent of Blackmyre

On the 9th February 1631, James son to “James Mulliken”, elder, of Blackmyre was registered as an apprentice to James Ramsay of Edinburgh, skinner and spouse of Janet Mullikin, the daughter of Thomas Mullikin merchant burgess of Edinburgh [1]. By a precept of sasine, dated 6th May 1636, we find “James Mulligan”, elder of Blakmyre granting his eldest son and heir apparent, James Mulligan, and his son's future wife, Margaret Douglas, a conjoint infeftment of the thirty-shilling land of Blakmyre. By the 27th November 1636, we find Margaret Douglas styled “wife of” James Mulligan heir apparent of Blakmyre [1]. Margaret Douglas was almost certainly the daughter of John Douglas, elder, of Stanehouse in the parish of Tynron. It is known that the fifth laird had at least one other son, called John, who with John Douglas, younger of Stanhouse, purchased the lands of Blackmyre and Holm of Dalquhairn from the last known laird, James Mullikin, grandson of the fifth laird in 1661. James Mullikin, son of the fifth laird, died sometime before November 1656, leaving a young family. It isn’t known where he died, let alone how, but given the fact that Scotland had been in a state of civil war for much of the 1640-50s and had regiments fighting in Ireland and England, as well as in Scotland, it would not be surprising if he was killed in some military campaign.

His son, also called James, succeeded the fifth laird in 1656 as the last laird of Blackmyre. He is discussed more fully in Issue # 6 of the Regarde Bien. Up until recently, it seemed fairly possible James moved to the State of Maryland in America, but research carried out by Harvey Mullikin, through the State Archives, demonstrates that James Mullikin, planter of Patuxent in Anne Arundel County, and James Mullikin sixth laird of Blackmyre are different people. The last laird married the daughter of John Dalziel in Glenmuckloch in the parish of Kirkconnel, Nithsdale, whilst, James Mullikin of Maryland married Mary Weylett alias Demerall, said to be now wife of James Mullikin in October 1659. The sixth laird of Blackmyre was aged about 25 years in 1659 and already a young man deeply in debt, when he sought to recover his grandfather’s small estate in Scotland. I am now incline to think, the evidence in Scotland points to James’s father having emigrated to Ireland, where he probably died. We know that Thomas Millikin, merchant, was admitted burgess of Ayr from the town of Ballywalter, Co. Down, in 1665, and that in 1673, he acquired from John Millikin in Farnane in County Cavan, Ireland, the last laird’s unlce, the hereditary rights to the lands of Blackmyre and Holm of Dalquhairn. If Thomas was in fact the son of the fifth laird by his second marriage to Janet Ross, this may open up another significant line of enquiry, which potentially connects two family histories, one of which has already been referred to in the Regarde Bien, the Millikins of Ballyholm?
________________________
1. Edinburgh Register of Apprentices 1583-1755 (SRS).
2. Dumfries Register of Sasines (NAS), Nov. 1, 1636, RS22/4/164v.

Quintin Milligan
Of Nether Holm of Dalquhairn

The parish census of Carsphairn, taken in 1684, records the names of the following tenants in Holm of Dalquhairn: James McTurk, Nicollas Ferguson, his spouse, James and Roger McTurk, their sons, James McMichael and his daughter, Elizabeth McMichael, and James Clerk and his family. The following Mullikins are listed in the same parish: “William Milliken”, his spouse, Janet Droannan in Holm of Daltallochan; “James Milliken” at the Cairn of Upper Knockgray; “Marion Milliken” in Brownhills and her son George McAdam; “Annapel Milliken” probably a servant in Strahanna. Unfortunately, there is no extant parish census surviving for Dalry, covering the same period. In the Kirk session records the following names are connected with the parish of Dalry between 1690 and 1699: “Quentin Milligan” and his spouse Barbara McMillan of Nether Holm of Dalquhairn, “Margaret Milligan” servant in Mackilston in 1691; “Jean Milligan” in Halfmark, aged 60 years in 1696; “Robert Milligan” in Margee, who with Barbara Grierson in Margee confessed to fornication in 1698; and “John Milligan” in Clauchan (St. John’s Clauchan of Dalry), deacon, aged 74 years in 1699, giving him a potential birth date of 1625. Undoubtedly, there were others whose names are to be found in other records.

Quintin Milligan of Nether Holm of Dalquhairn may have been the son of Roger Milligan in Craigengillen, where Quintin is first mentioned in 1662. Roger is last mentioned on record in 1662, being replaced by Quintin in that same year. It is very possible, Roger is one of the two Roger Milliganes listed in the 1637 petition or perhaps the son of Robert Milligan in Holm of Dalquhairn. The farms of Craigengillen and Holm of Dalquhairn are both located along an open valley traversed by the river Ken far up in the Galloway hills. Quintin purchased part of the land of Glenshimmeroch in the parish of Dalry from John Gordon of Edinburgh in 1678, and by the early 1690s, was in possession of Nether Holm of Dalquhairn. He died in November 1695, and was succeeded by his eldest son, James Milligan of Nether Holm, who in 1704, granted his mother, Barbara McMillan, relict of the deceased Quintin Milligan of Nether Holm an annual rent of £40 Scots to be uplifted from the lands of Nether Holm. By their marriage, Quintin Milligan and Barbara McMillan had six children:

  1. Margaret Milligan, eldest daughter, gave in her name for ‘proclamation of marriage’ to Hugh McCaw on 18th October 1696 at the Church of St. John’s Clauchan of Dalry.

  2. Rossina Milligan had her intended marriage to George Fergusson proclaimed on 21st November 1703 at the Church of St. John’s Clauchan of Dalry.

  3. James Milligan may have married first, Margaret Smith from the parish of Balmaclellan on 26th March 1693, at the Church of St. John’s Clauchan of Dalry. She appears to have died the following year, having given birth to 'Margaret daughter of James Milligan of this parish'. Margaret was baptised on 22nd February 1694. James married secondly, Helen Dickson of Dumfries, their names being registered for marriage on 6th May 1694.

  4. Janet Milligan married James McCaw, probably the brother of Hugh McCaw, on 28th November 1703 at the Church of St. John’s Clauchan of Dalry.

  5. Robert Milligan baptised 16th February 1693 at Church of St. John’s Clauchan of Dalry, and married Margaret Hoatson (Houston) sometime before 1716. In that year, he was served heir to his father, Quintin Milligan in Glenshimmeroch, his father having died in the faith and peace of King William in 1695. Margaret Hoatson died on 7th March 1726 aged 27 years and lies buried at St. John Clauchan of Dalry churchyard, along side her husband, Robert, who departed this life on 6th April 173[1] aged 4[0/8].

  6. Agnes Milligan baptised on 16th February 1693 at the Church of St. John’s Clauchan of Dalry. She may have been the spouse of John McMillan of Brednoch, who died in 1736 aged 43 years.

Inscribed on a Headstone in the churchyard of St. John’s Clauchan of Dalry are the words: - Here lies the corps of Jean Wilson, died 28th March 1754, also husband, Quintin Milligan, merchant in St. John’s Clauchan, died 1765, aged 63 years. On the west side of the Headstone: his second wife Marion McWilson, died 22nd January 1805 aged 86 years. Quintin married his first wife sometime before 1744, and bore him at the very least three children. He married his second wife, Mary Wilson, on 1st January 1759. Quintin Milligan was the grandson of Quintin Milligan and Barbara McMillan in Glenshimmeroch. He is known to have had at least four children by his two wives:

  1. Jannet Milligan a daughter of Quintin Milligan and Jean Wilson baptised on 30th September 1744. No more information.

  2. James Milligan of merchant of Philadelphia, see below.

  3. John Milligan, brother of James Milligan of merchant of Philadelphia.

  4. Mary Milligan daughter of Quintin Milligan and Marion Wilson baptised on 12th July 1761 and married Adam Forrester. Inscribed on a Headstone in the churchyard of St. John’s Clauchan of Dalry: - Erected to the memory of Adam Forrester, died 28th December 1794 aged 35 years, his wife Mary Milligan, died 29th May 1822, aged 61 years.

James Milligan Sen. of Philadelphia

In 1772, James Milligan merchant of Philadelphia acquired the dwelling house once occupied by his deceased father, Quintin Milligan merchant of St. John’s Clauchan of Dalry. The Instrument of Sasine recording this transaction has been extracted and is given below. James Milligan, sometime merchant in Philadelphia, was elected to the Continental Treasury as a commissioner of accounts in 1777. He was appointed Auditor General of the Treasury in 1779 and then Comptroller General of Treasury in 1781. He may be the same James Milligan of Philadelphia, Gentleman, who according to the 1790 Heads of Families lived on Second Street, Eastside. The house was occupied by one white adult male, two under the aged of 16 years, one white adult female and another person.

At Dumfries the fourteenth day of the April 1772, the following Sasine was presented by William McMillan apprentice to John Clerk, writer in Dumfries and which tenor follows: Be it known that in the ninth day of April 1772, the reign of our Sovereign Lord George the third, by the Grace of God King of Great Britain, France and Ireland, defender of the Faith, in the presence of me Notary Public, subscribing and the witnesses aftermentioned compeared personally upon the ground of the subject mentioned Mess. Gordon Taylor in St. John’s Clauchan as Baillie in that part of James Gibson, late merchant of St. John’s Clauchan now residing in Carssford especially constituted by the precept of sasine contained in the Disposition aftermentioned and there also compeared personally James Milligan merchant in Philadelphia eldest son lawful son of the deceased Quintin Milligan late merchant in St. John’s Clauchan having and holding in his hands principal Disposition of the same date herewith Granted by the said James Gibson in his favour whereby for the causes therein specified, he Gave Granted & Disponed from him & all of his heirs and survivors to and in favour of the said James Milligan and his heirs and survivors & Dispones whatsoever absolutely and irredeemably All & Whole these Stollages of houses commonly called Knockardie with the yards and crofts of land belonging thereto lying in and about St. John’s Clauchan within the barony of Grennan and parish of Dalry and Stewartry of Kirkcudbright and described as follows Viz. the one Stellage of Houses, Yards and Crofts by Marian Wilson widow of the said Quintin Milligan with house and yards adjoining thereto possessed by Samuel Allan, bounded by to the high road leading from St. John’s Clauchan to … and Dalry Church on the north, by the Roshalls and Meikle Kirkland on the south west and by the high road leading from the said Clauchan to Kirkland of New Galloway on the east part and the others Stellage of houses possessed by David Shaw merchant in John’s Clauchan with the yard belonging thereto and an old house sometime occupied and used a byre and … Together with the whole part and pertinents of the said subject wherein the said James Gibson bounds and obliges him to infelt and lease the said James Milligan by two several infeftments there mentioned. The Disposition also contains precept of Sasine of the following tenor Viz. my Baillies in that part to pass and give and deliver to the said James Milligan a sasine for all and whole the Stellages of houses, yards and crofts abovementioned. He commits his full power by the said precept written by Robert Ramsay writer in Dumfries and subscribed by James Gibson at John’s Clauchan the ninth day of April 1772 before the witnesses Mr. John Campbell, schoolmaster in Dalry, Robert Ramsay and John Milligan, brother german to the said James Milligan and who are also witnesses to the Disposition which also contains a resignation and other clauses to James Milligan to be exhibited by Alexander Gordon baillie of the aforesaid. And so, having read the clauses, he delivered the Disposition to the said public notary, who delivered it to James Milligan as instructed in the precept of sasine and gave instrument on the ground of the said property between hours of five and six in the afternoon in the presence of Mr. John Campbell, Thomas McGhie blacksmith in St. John’s Clauchan, William Wallace merchant there, William McCartney innkeeper there, witnesses especially called. Signed and Sealed.
[Dumfries Register of Sasines (NAS), RS. 23/20/461-462]

He is also mentioned in the following Will extract:

Will Book I, page 141, No. 84, John Campbell of Jefferson County, VA, dated 21 July 1786 and recorded 13 Jan 1800 Proved before court of Fayette County, Kentucky. Father was Allen Campbell of Snobane, County Tyrone, Ireland. Half-brother: Allen Campbell. Sister: Sarah Beard and her children, if she and half-brother come to America. Brother: Robert Campbell. Refers to: James Milligan, N.Y.C. Controller of Continental Treasury. Executors: James Milligan, Charles Simms of Alexandria, VA, Richard Taylor, William Elliott of Westmoreland Co., PA, Philip Ross of Washington Co., PA to sell slaves, land, and PA/VA warrants. Witnesses: Harry Innis, T. Perkins, Christo Greenup. Codicil dated 5 Apr 1791 annulled James Milligan as Executor.

[Abstracts of Allegheny County, PA Will Books, Volumes I through V (1789 -1845)]

James Milligan Jr. of Philadelphia

In her book Colonial Philadelphians, Hannah Roach’s notes two Milligan brothers, whose names are taken from Dr. Benjamin Rush’s patient’s ledger: 1775 - “Mr. Milligan, Jun’r – B’r to Milligan merchant” [1]. Samuel Ward in his diary entry, dated 21st September 1775, mentions “an account for Duck & of James Millikin [Milligan] Jr. allowed” [2]. The records show that James Milligan Jr., son of James Milligan of Philadelphia, was given an officer’s commission in the Continental Army during the America Revolution:

Continental Line

[Vol. II, Page 213] Sixth Pennsylvania Battalion
Col. William Irvine
James Milligan, sergeant, muster 9th January 1776

[Vol. II, Page 693] First Regiment 1782
Second Pennsylvania Battalion
Roll and Muster of the 4th Company: - Lieutenant James Milligan

[Vol. II, Page 699] First Regiment (command of Col. Daniel Brodhead)
Roll taken on 1st January 1783
James Milligan appointed First Lieutenant on April 16, 1779

[Vol. II, Page 702] First Regiment
James Milligan transferred to Capt. Fishbourne’s company

[Vol. II, Page 731] Non-Commissioned officers and privates of the First Pennsylvania Regiment
Seventh Pennsylvania Battalion
Ensigns: - James Milligan March 1777, promoted second lieutenant on September 1, 1777
Second Lieutenants: - James Milligan, from ensign September 1, 1777, promoted first lieutenant on April 16, 1779
First Lieutenants: - James Milligan promoted from second lieutenant, April 16 1779, transferred to the Fourth Pennsylvania on 7th January 1778

[Montgomery, Thomas Lynch (editor): Pennsylvania Archives, Fifth Series, Vol. II]

There is some indication to suggest James Milligan merchant may have traded with the American Indians, as he was in a group of traders who actually bought land in the interior of Pennsylvania and Ohio from Indians. He appears to be the same James Milligan, a resident in Middle Ward, Philadelphia, in 1810. The Census for that year, indicates the property of James Milligan was occupied by one male over 45 years, one female over 45 years and one male aged between 16 and 26 years, probably James's son, Samuel Milligan of Philadelphia.
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1. Roach, Hannah Benner: Colonial Philadelphians (1999), p. 188.
2. Smith, Paul H.: Letters of Delegates of Congress, Sept-Dec. 1775, Vol. 2, p. 42.

Samuel Milligan of Philadelphia

Samuel Milligan, son of James Milligan of Philadelphia, merchant, by his wife Martha Morris, graduated A.B. (Princ.), studied medicine and afterwards law, and for some years practised law in Philadelphia. He was a member of the City Council in 1819, and resided sometime in Susquehanna County, Pa. He married in 1820, Ann Morris, born Mch. --, 1789, daughter of Cadwalader Morris and Ann Strettell of Philadelphia. Ann’s father, Cadwalader Morris, was member of the Continental Congress after the Revolutionary War. She died at “the Knoll” in 1831; Samuel died at “the Knoll” April 1854.

  1. Anna Frances Milligan lived “at the Knoll”, unmarried.

  2. Martha Cadwalader Milligan married Charles Moore Wheatley, Hon. A. Am (Yale 1858), b. in England in 1822, author of a Catalogue of the Shells of the United States, died 6th May 1882.

  3. James Cadwalader Milligan married on 25th November 1851, Mary D. daughter of Whiting Sanford by his wife Debbie, daughter of Nathaniel Mitchell, Gov. of Delaware and had a son called:

      I. John Morris Milligan of Philadelphia

  4. Hannah Morris Milligan lived at the Knoll, unmarried.

Don and I are keen to learn more about James Milligan of Philadelphia, his sons and their descendants, can anyone help?

Dromore Church of Ireland

The parish of Dromore is locate within the Diocese of Dromore in mid Down and is bounded on north by the parish of Hillsborough, Magherlin to the east, Garvaghy to south with Annahilt and Dromara to the east. Dromore Church of Ireland has baptismal, marriage and burial registers dating from 1784, though, I have only had time to examine certain periods. The earliest Presbyterian records date from 1832 onwards – First Dromore Presbyterian Church.

Baptism 1784-1800(T.679/395):
Baptism of Ruth daughter of John & Ann Milliken in Ballykeel on June 15, 1784.
Baptism of William son of William Milliken & Margaret Bundle in Ednegore on Sept. 1, 1785.
Baptism of Mary daughter of John Milligan & Sarah Kerr in Coolsallagh on March 23, 1785.
Baptism of Eleanor daughter of Patrick McConnell & Isabella Milliken in Magherabeg on May 9, 1786.
Baptism of Eleanor daughter of Patrick Milligan & Rebecca Mallen in Drumbrony on Nov. 21, 1786.
Baptism of William son of John Mulligan & Sarah Kerr in Islandderry on May 13, 1787.
Baptism of Samuel son of Samuel Milligan & Dorothy Quale in Ballery on June 17, 1787.
Baptism of Martha illegitimate daughter of Jane Milligan in Islandderry on July 17, 1787.
Baptism of Sarah daughter of John Mulligan & Sarah Kerr in Coolsallagh on June 14, 1789.
Baptism of Richard son of Patrick McConnell & Isabella Millikin in Magherabeg, Aug. 15, 1789.
Baptism of Martha illegitimate daughter of Martha Mulligan in Ballery on June 5, 1790.
Baptism of Margaret daughter of Robert Mulligan & Margaret McMullan in Greenogue, June 20, 1790.
Baptism of Samuel son of Samuel Mulligan & Martha McMullan in Islandderry on Feb. 6, 1791.
Baptism of Jane daughter of John Mulligan & Sarah Kerr in Coolsallagh on Dec. 10, 1791.
Baptism of Sarah daughter of Robert Mulligan & Margaret McMullan in Magherabey on June 17, 1792.
Baptism of Isaac son of Patrick McConnell & Elizabeth Millikin in Magherabey on Jan. 13, 1793.
Baptism of Mary daughter of James Mulligan & Margaret Findly in Magherabey on Jan. 31, 1793.
Baptism of Martha daughter of Matthew Mulligan & Jane Dales in Ballery on April 5, 1794.
Baptism of John son of John Millikan & Sarah Kerr in Coolsallagh on June 29, 1794.
Baptism of James son of Robert Milligan & Margaret McMillan in Greenogue on May 3, 1795.
Baptism of Latitia daughter of James Millikin & Margaret his wife in Islandderry on May 3, 1795.
Baptism of Susanna daughter of Matthew Mulligan & Latitia Hagan in Ballinevers, Oct. 11, 1795.
Baptism of Sarah daughter of James Millikin & Margaret Wood in Greenogue on July 10, 1796.
Baptism of Anne daughter of Richard Millikin & Anne Fagan in Ballineres on Aug. 6, 1797.
Baptism of Sarah daughter of Matthew Millikin & Bridget Fagan in Ballineres on Aug. 6, 1797.
Baptism of Samuel son of Robert Millikin & Margaret McMillan in Greenogue on Oct. 29, 1797.
Baptism of John illegitimate son of James Millikin of Island Derry & Elizabeth Watson in Tullylish on April 22, 1798.
Baptism of Hugh son of James Millikin & Margaret Wood in Greenogue, born on January 17, 1799, and baptised on January 27, 1799.
Baptism of Robert son of Matthew Millikin & Bridget Fagan in Ballineres Sept. 8, 1799.
Baptism of William son of Richard Millikin & Ann Fagan in Magherbey, born September 11, 1799, and baptised September 15, 1799.
Baptism of John son of Robert Millikin & Margaret McMillan in Magherbey, born on January 9, 1800, and baptised on March 16, 1800.

Marriages 1827-1845:
Marriage of James Mulligan of the parish of Magheralin and Ruth Murdoch of the parish of Dromore, by licence, on July 24, 1828: he signed James 'X' [his mark].
Marriage of James Mulligan and Rebecca Hill both of the parish of Dromore on January 22, 1837: he signed James Mulligan.
Marriage of Charlotte Mulligan of the parish of Dromore and John Clarke of the parish of Seapatrick on August 7, 1838: witnessed by Robert Gibson and James Mulligan; she signed Charlotte 'X' [her mark] Mulligan.
Marriage of Sarah Milliken and Zebulon Savage both of the parish of Dromore, by licence, on January 3, 1840; witnessed by John Bradshaw and James Johnston; she signed Sarah Milliken.
Burials 1853-1862:
Burial of William Milliken of Collesallogh died aged 68 on February 16, 1860.
Burial of Sarah Milliken of Ballykeel died aged 32 on March 5, 1860.
Burial of James Milligan of Islandderry died aged 58 on October 10, 1862.
Burial of James Milligan of Islandderry died aged 24 on November 6, 1862.
Burial of William Milligan of Islandderry died aged 33 on September 21, 1863.
Burial of Sally Milligan of Dromore died aged 74 on May 8, 1871.

The Milligans of North Ormesby, England

The following research has been supplied by Brian Stuttard and concerns the family of John Milligan of North Ormesby, England.

St Hilda Middlesbrough Marriage
1863 Nov 24 Charles Spencelayh, full age, bach, mariner, Middlesbrough, father, Philip Spencelayh, mariner. = Ann Milligan, full age, spin, North Ormesby, father, John Milligan, contractor. Wit: Thomas Spencelayh, Mary Milligan. (Ann`s sister?)

1871 Census
RG10/4855 / f 86 / p 17 / ns 81 @ 52 Stovin St North Ormesby
Charles Spencely head, mar, 32, sailor working at iron wks, Yks, Middlesborough
Ann Spencely wife, mar, 30, Cul, Carlisle
Elizabeth Spencely dau, 6, Yks, Middlesborough
John Spencely son, 4, Yks, North Ormesby
Emma Spencely dau, 2, Yks, North Ormesby
Charles Spencely son, 2m, Dur, Shields
Ellen Neper? serv, unm, 12, Dur, Shields
William Joseph bord, 23, labourer iron works, Dur, Sunderland

1881 Census
RG11/4861 / f 77 / p 35 / ns 164 @ 12 Pierson St North Ormesby
Charles Spencelay head, mar, 41, foreman iron works, Yks, Middlesborough
Ann Spencelay wife, mar, 40, Cul, Carlisle
Eliza J Spencelay dau, unm, 16, dressmaker, Yks, North Ormesby
John W Spencelay son, 14, labourer iron works, Yks, North Ormesby
Earnest Spencelay son 10, scholar, Yks, North Ormesby
Henry Spencelay son, 8, scholar, Yks, North Ormesby
Helena Spencelay dau, 2, Yks, North Ormesby
Grace Spencelay dau, 2m, Yks, North Ormesby

The first two burials I believe to be the parents of Ann.
Holy Trinity North Ormesby Burials
20) 1876 Apr 27 Jane Milligan of Smeaton St 65yrs (died Sep 21)
26) 1880 Mar 19 John Milligan of 89 Smeaton St 63yrs (died Mar 17)
57) 1887 Nov 11 Ann Spencelayh of 5 Trinity Terrace 46yrs

RG12/4018 / f 8 / p 9 / ns 46 @ 5 Trinity Terrace North Ormesby
Charles Spenclay head, widr, mariner, Yks, Middlesborough
Eliza Jane Spencelay dau, single, 26, Yks, North Ormesby
John Wm Spencelay son, s, 24, ironworker, Yks, North Ormesby
Charles E Spencelay son, s, 20, warehouseman, Yks, North Ormesby
Henry H Spencelay son, s, 18, commercial traveller, Yks, North Ormesby
Helena Spencelay dau, s, 12, Yks, North Ormesby
Ann Spencelay dau, 3, Yks, North Ormesby
Hannah E Taylor serv, s, 18, housemaid, Yks, North Ormesby

This I think will be Ann`s sister, but have more research to do.

Holy Trinity North Ormesby Marriage
1874, Sep 14 Simeon Siddaway, 23, bach, moulder, Trinity Terrace, father, Thomas Sidaway, labourer. = Grace Milligan, 27, spin, Smeaton St, father, John Milligan, storekeeper. Wit: John Milligan, Mary E Woodward, Elizabeth? Brodie?

Please find the following two events giving evidence that Grace was indeed the sister of Ann whose details I sent before, plus their brother John. Grace was born circa 1843, John I don`t know about yet. The John Milligan that was a witness at Graces wedding could have been either father or brother, but perhaps leaning more towards father.

Baptisms Holy Trinity North Ormesby
69) 1863 Nov 3 Grace Milligan dau of John & Jane, North Ormesby, foreman
70) 1863 Nov 3 John Milligan son of John & Jane, North Ormesby, foreman

1861 Census
RG10/4856/ f 11 & 12 / p 16 & 17 / ns 88 & 89 Smeaton St, North Ormesby
John Milligan, head, mar, 54, store? & time keeper in iron wks, Cul, Carlisle
Jane Milligan, wife, mar, 60, formerly dressmaker, Cul, Carlisle
John Milligan, son, unm, 21, draughtsman engine, Wes, Kendal
Grace Milligan, dau, unm, 24, dressmaker, Cul, Penrith

Since finding this entry I have had to rethink the children of John the younger. I had found a baptism from Holy Trinity Stockton as follows:

1853) 1875 Nov 5 Gertrude Milligan d John & Dorothy, Stockton, draughtsman

This is more likely to be the correct family.
I looked for them on the 1881 census and this is what I found.
Dorothy as a widow with daughter, parents and nephew.

Dwelling: 1 School House
Census Place: Southwick, Durham, England
Source: FHL Film 1342205, PRO Ref RG11, Piece 5003, Folio 112, Page 8.
Marr Age Sex Birthplace
Dorothy MILLIGAN, W, 32, F, Sunderland, Durham, England
Rel: Head
Occ: Teacher (Sch)
Gertrude MILLIGAN, U, 5, F, Stockon On Tees, Durham, England
Rel: Daur
Occ: Scholar
John ALLEN, M, 57, M Newcastle On Tyne
Rel: Father
Occ: Sawyer
Elizabeth ALLEN, M, 55, F Newcastle On Tyne
Rel: Mother
John G.A. BOOTH, U, 11, M Hartlepool, Durham, England
Rel: Nephew
Occ: Scholar



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January, 2002.