The Stewarts of Gartnafuaran,
Balquhidder, Perthshire, Scotland

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Contents

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Introduction

This page is part of the Stewarts of Balquhidder Research Group Web Site jointly hosted by myself, Ryk Brown, and my research partner, Chuck Speed.  The research presented on this page is not ours alone.  It is the product of all the Fellow Researchers of the Stewarts of Balquhidder Research Group.  We are indebted to them for their generous contributions.  This page is intended as a place for researchers to freely and cooperatively share our research with each other.  The first-time reader is advised to begin with the introduction found on the Principal Families Page before proceeding on with this page.

This page introduces you to the Stewarts of Gartnafuaran who lived in Gartnafuaran, Perthshire, Scotland.  This family was associated together in a clan-like relationship together with the other Stewart families of Glenbuckie, Ardvorlich, and Annat, in much the same way as the better known Clan Stewart of Appin.

This family has several alternative spellings including: Gartnaferan, Gartnaferran, Gartnafuarran, Gartnafuaroe, Gartnafuarae, and many others.

The Stewarts of Gartnafuaran are the earliest of all the cadet branches of the Baldorran Stewarts.  Andrew Stewart acquired the lands of Gartnafuaran by 1503, a full generation before the house of Glenbuckie was established, three generations before Ardvorlich, and four generations before Annat.

Gartnafuaran probably means "vineyard of an eternal spring" in Gaelic.  Gart = "corn field or vineyard", na = "of", fuaran = "an eternal spring" or "a green spot near a spring."

The Stewarts of the South describes the Gartnafuaran family as being the most "lowland" in character of the three principal families.  This may be evidenced in the less frequent use of Gaelic nicknames or clan names within this family.  Capt. James Stewart, the author of SOS, also comments that although the Gartnafuaran Stewarts were third in seniority of the Baldorran or Balquhidder Stewarts they ought to be considered at least second in character (after Glenbuckie).  Capt. Stewart had a low opinion of the Ardvorlich Stewarts.

Fellow researcher, Jared Olar, presents the following introduction to his ancestral family:

Sliochd an Tigh Mhoil

The Stewarts of Gartnafuaran were a family of Highland Stewarts who, like their kin the Stewarts of Ardvorlich, of Glenbuckie, of Annat, etc., were descended from Murdoch Stewart, 2nd. Duke of Albany, grandson of King Robert II.  In the Stewarts of the South (p.71), we find that this family was commonly called Sliochd an tigh mhoil.

Sliochd an tigh mhoil means "Children of Voil House", presumably so named because they lived near Loch Voil.  Voil ("mhoil") is of uncertain origin and may be a form of mol, meaning "a pebbly beach"  Thus it may mean "Children of the house of the pebbly beach". However, phuill is pronounced "foyle" which is very similar to "voil" and means "sluggish, muddy water", thus, Loch Voil may also be Loch Phuill, "lake of sluggish, muddy water." However the "m" spelling found in Stewarts of the South suggests that the first translation is to be preferred. - Ryk

Their property in Balquhidder included the farms of Gartnafuaran, Cean na coille, and Stron slan and Dail riach in Glenbuckie. Glen Du in Glenbuckie was their sheiling or grazing place. Gartnafuaran and Stron-slan with Cean a choille and Dail riach were sold to a McLeod from Skye.  It is said that the Stewarts of Gartnafuaran had Wester Invernenty before it became the property of the family of Glenbuckie, and they were once laying claim to the barony of Strathgartan on Loch Catherine-side.

Gartnafuaran is situated just to the southeast of Balquhidder and is bordered on its north by the River Balvag. It was the possession and home of this family for nine generations, from about 1500 until the mid-1700s. The founder of this family was Andrew Stewart, younger brother of William Stewart of Baldorran. Andrew first appears on record in 1495, and had sasine of the lands of Gartnafuaran by 1503. About 250 years later, Andrew's descendant Walter Stewart, 10th of Gartnafuaran, was the last of the line known to have possessed Gartnafuaran. After selling off their ancestral home, the family removed to Torrie near Callander, and then moved to London, England, where they are lost sight of in the early 1800s.

Related Information

1. The Principal Families of the Balquhidder Stewarts
2. Fellow Researchers
3. James Mhor Stewart, Common Ancestor of the Balquhidder Stewarts
   1. Ancestors and Descendants of James Mhor Stewart
4. The Baldorran Stewarts
5. Index of Locations and Place Names
6. Current Research Leads
7. Glossary of Gaelic Nicknames
8. Sources
9. Personal Data Pages (GEDCOM)
10. Contact

Gartnafuaran Family Report

The following report presents an introductory outline for the early generations of this family.  To see more detailed information, please refer to the various submitted reports on the main page of the Stewarts of Balquhidder Research Group.  To see information on the ancestors please see The Principal Families of the Balquhidder Stewarts.

The Origin of Andrew Stewart, 1st of Gartnafuaran

There is a discrepancy concerning the origin of Andrew Stewart, 1st of Gartnafuaran.  Duncan Stewart in his 1739 Genealogy records Andrew's origins incorrectly as follows:

(p. 173) V. William Stewart of Baldorran, m. Marion, dau. of Sir Colin Campbell & Margaret, dau. of John, Last Lord Lorn. Living 25 Oct 1498.

1. Walter, his successor.

2. John of Glenbuckie, of whom later. Living 1508.

3. Andrew of Gartnafuaroe, of whom later.

Later, Duncan says of Andrew, 1st Gartnafuaran, that he is "said by some (particularly his descendants) to be the son of William Stewart of Baldorran."(p.178)  Duncan is simply not correct.  However, since Duncan Stewart's 1739 Genealogy is so widely read and relied upon as a genealogical resource, we felt it was important to other researchers of this family to clearly point out and explain Duncan Stewart's error.

Gordon MacGregor, in his book, The Landed Families of Strathearn, reports as follows:

"Andrew Stewart, obtained the lands of Gartnaferan, and is styled as brother to William Stewart of Balindoran when both were appointed by Royal Letters under the Seal of King James IV dated 16 May, 1495, to give Sasine for the lands of Ardbechlorne to Archibald Edmonstone of Duntreith on 26 May, 1495. He had Sasine for the Crown lands of Gartnaferan, in the Lordship of Balquhidder, by 1503." (ref.: Exchequer Rolls)

Just to be sure, I wrote to Gordon to see if he could account for the discrepancy between his findings and the reporting of the venerable Duncan Stewart. Gordon responded as follows:

"Firstly it has to be considered that there has been no son Andrew Stewart so far located for William Stewart of Balindoran and if there had been he would have been nominated as a substitute heir to his brother Walter Stewart in the lands of Duchlas in 1500 as John Stewart (1st of Glenbuckie) then appears. Entails were designed to confirm destinations and, so far as was possible, keep lands in the male line. So why exclude other sons?

"Secondly, an Andrew Stewart is certainly styled as brother to William Stewart of Balindoran on 16 May, 1495. In respect of the above, he must be considered identical with the Andrew Stewart who was entered tenant on the Crown lands of Gartnaferan prior to 1503 at least until such time, if at all, as an Andrew is discovered as a son of William Stewart of Balindoran.

"It has to be stated that although Duncan Stewart's work is useful it has been conclusively proven incorrect in many instances from information gleaned from primary sources so it should not be treated as entirely accurate.

"There simply is no evidence, other than Duncan Stewart's own report of "family tradition", to support Duncan's claim. Whereas, at least there is an Andrew confirmed to a generation previous and this, coupled with the omission from the said entail, is good enough reason to doubt that such another Andrew did exist in the next generation.

"If, however, no Andrew belonging to the Balindoran family had been located by primary sources at this period in time then it would be entirely acceptable to speculate as to where he fit in utilizing secondary sources, such as Duncan Stewart, as a guide until such times as primary evidence came to hand.

"It also has to be considered: what were Duncan Stewart's actual sources? the family papers or the family traditions? and in respect of the latter then a tradition dating back some 200 years may well be "out" even though only slightly i.e. son as opposed to brother of William of Balindoran. If Duncan had provided references then there would, of course, be no debate!"

The correct relationship is as shown on our Introductory Page.

Andrew STEWART , 1st Laird Of Gartnafuaran, was born ABT 1458 in Baldorran, Balquhidder, Perthshire, Scotland as the son of James Beag Stewart, 1st of Baldorran and Annabel Buchanan of that ilk.  See above for the issues regarding his birth.  Andrew Stewart acquired the lands of Gartnafuaran about 1503.  Andrew's spouse is unknown.  He had the following children:

1. "James" STEWART, b. ABT 1488.  There is no evidence of his existence.  He is suggested by onomastics only.  If he existed at all then it is suggested that he died young.
2. Alexander STEWART , 2nd Laird Of Gartnafuaran b: ABT 1490 in Gartnafuaran, Balquhidder, Perthshire, Scotland.  Alexander married an unknown woman whose surname was GRAY.  Their children are presented below.
3. John STEWART , Ancestor Of Blairgarry b: ABT 1500 in Gartnafuaran, Perthshire, Scotland.  According to Duncan Stewart's 1739 Genealogy, John Stewart, son of Andrew Stewart in Gartnafuaran, was the ancestor of the Stewarts who later lived in Blairgarry.  MacGregor's research has shown that the lands of Blairgarry were held at this time by John's paternal first cousin, Robert Stewart of Blairgarry, who was the son of Patrick Stewart of Ardkinknockane, who is believed to be a brother of Andrew Stewart, 1st of Gartnafuaran.  According to Duncan Stewart's 1739 History, this John was the ancestor of a branch who came into possession of Blairgarry at a later time.  A full description of this controversy and the known descendants of this branch can be found on the Stewarts of Blairgarry a.k.a. Stiubhartich a' Bhaid Page.  Three of many possible explanations present themselves as worth discussing: 1) Duncan Stewart was mistaken (which is not unheard of) and Andrew Stewart, "1st of Blairgarry" below is not the son of this John Stewart, but is instead the grandson of Robert Stewart, previously in Blairgarry; 2) Robert Stewart in Blairgarry had no sons and his daughter became heiress to Blairgarry and married this John or his son Andrew; or 3) that the earlier Blairgarry line became extinct and the lands of Blairgarry reverted to the Earl of Moray, as senior landlord, and were reassigned to this branch.
   1. John Stewart's suggested descendants are presented below under Cadet Branches.

Alexander Stewart, 2nd of Gartnafuaran

Alexander STEWART , 2nd Laird Of Gartnafuaran b: ABT 1500 in Gartnafuaran, Balquhidder, Perthshire, Scotland as the son of Andrew Stewart, 1st of Gartnafuaran, shown above.  Alexander married an unknown woman whose surname was GRAY.  According to Duncan Stewart's 1739 History, Alexander's widow later married Macnab of that Ilk.  They had the following known children:

1. Andrew STEWART , 3rd Laird Of Gartnafuaran b: ABT 1530 in Gartnafuaran, Balquhidder, Perthshire, Scotland.  He is mentioned in the following document as having participated in the murders of Hugh and John Stewart in Balquhidder in DEC 1568: "Reg. Privy Seal. Vol.VI. No. 737. 8 Sept. 1569.  Gift to Alexander Stewart in Pittareg of the escheat of numerous persons all from Balquhidder including Alexander Stewart in Gartnascrow and Andrew his son also Duncan Stewart his son, and Blak Alexander Stewart in Glenbuckie and Patrick his son, for the murder of Hugh and John Stewart, his brother, in the lands of Balquhider in December last [1568]".  He married a Daughter of Patrick STEWART , 2nd Of Glenbuckie b: ABT 1540 in Glenbuckie, Balquhidder, Perthshire, Scotland.  Their children are presented below.

2. Duncan McAlister STEWART in Carnlea, b: ABT 1533 in Gartnafuaran, who is mentioned in the following document as having participated in the murders of Hugh and John Stewart in Balquhidder in DEC 1568: "Reg. Privy Seal. Vol.VI. No. 737. 8 Sept. 1569.  Gift to Alexander Stewart in Pittareg of the escheat of numerous persons all from Balquhidder including Alexander Stewart in Gartnascrow and Andrew his son also Duncan Stewart his son, and Blak Alexander Stewart in Glenbuckie and Patrick his son, for the murder of Hugh and John Stewart, his brother, in the lands of Balquhider in December last [1568]".  In a tack of Janet Stewart, Lady Ruthven, dated 12 APR 1569, Duncan is listed as a tenant in Carnlea near Ardveich.  It is possible that he may have had descendants who remained in the area, but there is no record of any surviving male line.  MacGregor suggests that Duncan may have been the father of Alexander Stewart, 1st in Glenogle (shown below as son of Robert), which is entirely possible.  However, as Robert Stewart, Predecessor of Glenogle, would likely have had an eldest son named Alexander, and as the Glenogle line descends from Robert, then it makes more sense to attach Alexander Stewart, 1st in Glenogle to Robert rather than to Duncan McAlister.

3. John STEWART , in Kirkton (and possibly in Glenfinglas) b: ABT 1535 in Gartnafuaran, Balquhidder, Perthshire, Scotland (his birth must be early enough for him to have signed the 1557 bond as an adult).  The Ardvorlich History incorrectly says that John was ancestor of the Stewarts of Hyndfield, but Duncan Stewart's 1739 History of the Stewarts says that John's brother, Robert, was ancestor of Hyndfield; Duncan Stewart does not mention John. The Edward S. Gray Papers on file at The Stewart Society mention both sons, but say that Robert was ancestor of Hyndfield.  MacGregor does not show John.  However, The Black Book of Taymouth shows that “Andro Stewart in Gartnafoir,” his brother “Johne Stewart in Kirkton,” and several other Stewarts signed a bond of 1557 for their kinsman Duncan Campbell of Glenorchy (Olar).  We have no record of any descendants for John.

4. Robert STEWART , Predecessor Of Glenogle b: ABT 1540 in Gartnafuaran, Balquhidder, Perthshire, Scotland.  Duncan Stewart's genealogy (1739) records Robert as "from whom John Stewart of Hyndfield or Stronvar is the 5th in a lineal descent".  As Duncan Stewart wrote his history in 1730, nine years before it was eventually published, and at the same time as said John Stewart was actually in possession of Hyndfield, we should reasonably presume that Duncan's source was John Stewart in Hyndfield himself.  We should have confidence that John Stewart would know his own ancestry, and thus we are confident that Robert Stewart was indeed the lineal male ancestor of John Stewart of Hyndfield (shown below).  We note that The Ardvorlich History does not show Robert at all and incorrectly shows Robert's brother, John Stewart in Kirkton, as the ancestor of the Glenogle Stewarts.

   1. The descendants of Robert Stewart are presented on The Stewarts of Glenogle Page.

Andrew Stewart, 3rd of Gartnafuaran

Andrew STEWART , 3rd Laird Of Gartnafuaran b: ABT 1530 in Gartnafuaran, Balquhidder, Perthshire, Scotland as the son of Alexander Stewart, 2nd of Gartnafuaran, shown above.  Andrew is mentioned in the following document as having participated in the murders of Hugh and John Stewart in Balquhidder in DEC 1568: "Reg. Privy Seal. Vol.VI. No. 737. 8 Sept. 1569.  Gift to Alexander Stewart in Pittareg of the escheat of numerous persons all from Balquhidder including Alexander Stewart in Gartnascrow and Andrew his son also Duncan Stewart his son, and Blak Alexander Stewart in Glenbuckie and Patrick his son, for the murder of Hugh and John Stewart, his brother, in the lands of Balquhider in December last [1568]". 

Andrew married a Daughter of Patrick STEWART , 2nd Of Glenbuckie b: ABT 1525 in Glenbuckie, Balquhidder, Perthshire, Scotland.  They had the one known child:

1. Alexander STEWART, b ABT 1550 in Gartnafuaran, Balquhidder, Perthshire, Scotland.  No evidence has been found for Alexander's existence.  He is suggested by onomastics only.  If he existed at all then he is presumed to have died young.
2. Patrick STEWART, b ABT 1553 in Gartnafuaran, Balquhidder, Perthshire, Scotland.  No evidence has been found for Patrick's existence.  He is suggested by onomastics only.  If he existed at all then he is presumed to have died young.
3. Walter STEWART , 4th Laird Of Gartnafuaran b: ABT 1555 in Gartnafueran, Balquhidder, Perthshire, Scotland.  He married Elizabeth BUCHAN b: ABT 1560 in Scotland.  Their children are presented below.

Walter Stewart, 4th of Gartnafuaran

Walter STEWART , 4th Laird Of Gartnafuaran b: ABT 1560 in Gartnafueran, Balquhidder, Perthshire, Scotland as the son of Andrew Stewart, 3rd of Gartnafuaran, shown above.  He married Elizabeth BUCHAN b: ABT 1560 in Scotland.  They had one known child:

1. Andrew STEWART, b. ABT 1575 in Gartnafuaran, Balquhidder, Perthshire, Scotland.  No evidence has been found for Andrew's existence. He is suggested by onomastics only. If he existed at all then he is presumed to have died young.
2. Alexander STEWART , 5th Laird Of Gartnafuaran b: ABT 1580 in Gartnafuaran, Balquhidder, Perthshire, Scotland.  He married Janet MCGRIGOR b: ABT 1580 in Scotland.  Their children are presented below.

Alexander Stewart, 5th of Gartnafuaran

Alexander STEWART , 5th Laird Of Gartnafuaran b: ABT 1580 in Gartnafuaran, Balquhidder, Perthshire, Scotland as the son of Walter Stewart, 4th of Gartnafuaran, shown above.  Alexander or his father seems to be the most likely person to have received the Gartnafuaran portion of Glenfinglas after the Clearing of the Glen.  Alexander married Janet MCGRIGOR b: ABT 1580 in Scotland.  They had the following children:

1. Walter Dubh Mor STEWART b: ABT 1600 in Gartnafueran, Balquhidder, Perthshire, Scotland.  This Walter is believed to be the Walter Dubh Mor Stewart who died with his two sons in the service of Montrose at the Battle of Kilsyth, 15 AUG 1645.  Onomastics would suggest that he should be the oldest son, but by his premature death the estate of Gartnafuaran would have passed to his brother, Andrew.  Walter is mentioned in Stewarts of the South: "Although they are the last, I think they ought to be the second, at least.  In general, they are something like to the family of Ardvorlich, not altogether valiant as the Glenbuckie family, but more of a Low country nature. The only distinguished character known to me of this family was one "Walter-du-mor" ("Big Black Walter") who [along] with his two sons was killed at the battle of Kilsyth, [although] some say, however, that they were killed at the battle of "Bodle brig", which was certainly not the case."  From this reference it is inferred that Walter had the following children:

   1. Son STEWART, b. ABT 1620 in Gartnafuaran, Balquhidder, Perthshire, Scotland.  He died at the Battle of Kilsyth, 15 AUG 1645
   2. Son STEWART, b. ABT 1625, in Gartnafuaran, Balquhidder, Perthshire, Scotland.  He died at the Battle of Kilsyth, 15 AUG 1645
2. Andrew STEWART , 6th Laird Of Gartnafuaran b: ABT 1603 in Gartnafuaran, Balquhidder, Perthshire, Scotland.  He married Margaret STEWART , daughter of Alexander Stewart, 1st of Ardvorlich b: ABT 1600 in Ardvorlich, Comrie, Perthshire, Scotland.  Their children are presented below.
3. Robert Dubh Mor STEWART b: ABT 1605 in Gartnafueran, Balquhidder, Perthshire, Scotland.  It is suggested that he may be the patriarch of Gartnafuaran III Branch, Sliochd Rob Duibh Mhoir.

4. Alexander Dubh Oig STEWART b: ABT 1610 in Gartnafueran, Balquhidder, Perthshire, Scotland.  Alexander Stewart, is probably the Allester Dow Stewart mentioned in the 1636 Trial of Gilderoy (although the The Edward S. Gray Papers say Allester Dow was Alexander’s father, Alexander). The trial records state that Gilderoy’s party broke into and stole articles from the dwelling house of Allester Dow Stewart at “Gartnafarrow.” James Stewart of Ardvorlich served on the jury in this trial. (Memorials of Troubles in Scotland, Spalding Club, vol. I, p.437).  It is suggested that Alexander Dubh MAY be the patriarch of IV Branch of the Gartnafuaran, Sliochd Sheun Rob is Alasdair Oig Stewarts as accounted for in Stewarts of the South.  It seems most likely that the Gartnafuaran portion of Glenfinglas would have been given to the head of the family at that time, namely Alexander Stewart, 5th of Gartnafuaran.  He would have doled out his properties amongst his sons rather than giving the Glenfinglas property to a nephew or cousin.  Thus the later Duart family in Glenfinglas most likely descends from a son of Alexander Stewart, 5th of Gartnafuaran.  The present arrangement seems most likely given onomastics and chronology.

Andrew Stewart, 6th of Gartnafuaran

Andrew STEWART , 6th Laird Of Gartnafuaran b: ABT 1603 in Gartnafuaran, Balquhidder, Perthshire, Scotland as the son of Alexander Stewart, 5th of Gartnafuaran, shown above.  Andrew married Margaret STEWART , daughter of Alexander Stewart, 1st of Ardvorlich b: ABT 1600 in Ardvorlich, Comrie, Perthshire, Scotland and had the following known child:

1. Alexander STEWART, abt 1623 in Gartnafuaran, Balquhidder, Perthshire, Scotland.  This Alexander's existence is not confirmed.  He is suggested firstly by onomastics.  With Andrew's father and father-in-law both being named Alexander, it is almost certain that Andrew would have named his eldest son, Alexander.  He is also believed to be the Alexander Stewart in Gartnafuaran referred to 1708 testament of Alexander Stewart in Duart which refers to the deceased's wife as Janet Stewart, daughter of the late Alexander Stewart in Gartnafuaran.  As the Gartnafuaran estate passed to Walter then we must assume that this Alexander either didn't survive or had no surviving male heirs.  Alexander may have been the father of:
   1. Janet STEWART, b ABT 1670 in Gartnafuaran, Balquhidder, Perthshire, Scotland.  Janet is recorded in her husband's 1708 testament as being the wife of the late Alexander Stewart in Duart, the daughter of the late Alexander Stewart in Gartnafuaran, and the mother of a minor son, also named Alexander Stewart. Her father, "Alexander Stewart in Gartnafuaran" is contemporary with Alexander Stewart, 8th of Gartnafuaran, but they are not the same persons, as Alexander, 8th of Gartnafuaran, was still alive in 1708, whereas Janet's father was described as already deceased by that point.  Janet married her distant cousin Alexander Stewart in Duart, b. ABT 1670 in Duart, Glenfinglas, Callander, Perthshire, Scotland.  He is believed to be from Branch IV of the Gartnafuaran Stewarts who resided in Glenfinglas.  They had the following child:

      1. Alexander STEWART in Duart, b. abt. 1700 in Duart, Glenfinglas, Callander, Perthshire, Scotland.  Alexander is recorded as a minor in 1707 in his father's 1708 testament.  It is suggested that his line became extinct and that the property of Duart passed to his first cousin Sean Rob Stewart who was residing at the time in Glenfinglas.

2. Walter STEWART , 7th Laird Of Gartnafuaran b: 1625 in Gartnafuaran, Balquhidder, Perthshire, Scotland.  He married Isabel STEWART , daughter of John Stewart, 6th Of Glenbuckie b: ABT 1620 in Glenbuckie, Balquhidder, Perthshire, Scotland.  Duncan Stewart's genealogy confusingly refers to the father of Isabel as John Stewart, "predecessor" of Glenbuckie.  Their children are presented below.

Walter Stewart, 7th of Gartnafuaran

Walter STEWART , 7th Laird Of Gartnafuaran b: 1620 in Gartnafuaran, Balquhidder, Perthshire, Scotland as the son of Andrew Stewart, 6th of Gartnafuaran, shown above.  Walter signed the 1654 Bond of Keltney Burn along with the heads of all the other Stewart houses in Balquhidder, Athol, and Appin swearing tacit allegiance to King Charles II.  He married Isabel STEWART , daughter of John Stewart, 6th Of Glenbuckie b: ABT 1620 in Glenbuckie, Balquhidder, Perthshire, Scotland.  Duncan Stewart's genealogy confusingly refers to the father of Isabel as John Stewart, "predecessor" of Glenbuckie.  Walter and Isabel had the following children:

1. Andrew STEWART, abt 1648 in Gartnafuaran, Balquhidder, Perthshire, Scotland. No evidence has been found for Andrew's existence. He is suggested by onomastics only. If he existed at all then he is presumed to have died young.
2. John STEWART, b abt 1650 in Gartnafuaran, Balquhidder, Perthshire, Scotland.  No evidence has been found for John's existence. He is suggested by onomastics only. If he existed at all then he is presumed to have died young.
3. Alexander STEWART , 8th Laird Of Gartnafuaran b: ABT 1652 in Gartnafuaran, Balquhidder, Perthshire, Scotland.  He married Margaret CAMPBELL , Of Dundurn b: ABT 1680 in Perthshire, Scotland.  Their children are presented below.
4. Robert STEWART , Covenanter b: 1655 in Gartnafuaran, Balquhidder, Perthshire, Scotland.  Robert was a Covenanter and fought at the Battle of Bothwell Brigg in 1679, where the government defeated the rebel Covenanters. Robert then fled to Ulster -- perhaps in or near Carrick Fergus, County Antrim, where his eldest son John may have been born circa 1682 (at any rate, Robert's daughter-in-law, Elizabeth Clark was from Carrick Fergus). Robert is said to have later returned to Edinburgh and died there, but his widow Janette, son John, and other members of his family either stayed in or returned to Ulster. They left Aghadowey, Ulster, in 1718 and came to America, where Janette died circa 1750. Robert married ABT 1679 to Janet FORSYTH b: ABT 1660 probably in Scotland.  They had the following children:
   1. John STEWART , Of Londonderry, New Hampshire, British North America b: ABT 1682 in County Antrim, Ireland, or Edinburgh, Scotland.  He married firstly to Elizabeth CLARK of Carrick Fergus, Antrim, Ireland and secondly to Elizabeth FORSYTH.  He immigrated in 1718 to New Hampshire when it was still a British Colony.  Their descendants lived in Londonderry, New Hampshire, USA.  They can be found in Jared Olar's Gartnafuaran Report.
   2. Robert STEWART b: ABT 1684 in Edinburgh, Midlothian, Scotland
   3. Julianne STEWART b: ABT 1686 in Edinburgh, Midlothian, Scotland
   4. Samuel STEWART b: ABT 1688 in Edinburgh, Midlothian, Scotland
   5.     Alexander STEWART???  We have been asked on several occasions about an alleged son of this family named Alexander.  Several on-line sources cite Alexander as a son of this family, and even as the oldest son -- but without any supporting evidence.  We believe that our fellow researcher, Jared Olar, has successfully shown that Robert Stewart, Covenanter, did not have a son named Alexander.  For more information please refer to Jared's article, "Did Robert Stewart, Covenanter, (1655-1714) have a son named Alexander?"
5. John STEWART,  b ABT 1658 in Gartnafuaran, Balquhidder, Perthshire, Scotland.  John is listed as a son of Walter Stewart in Duncan Stewart's 1739 Genealogy.

Alexander Stewart, 8th of Gartnafuaran

Alexander STEWART in Stronslanie, 8th Laird Of Gartnafuaran b: ABT 1652 in Gartnafuaran, Balquhidder, Perthshire, Scotland as the son of Walter Stewart, 8th of Gartnafuaran, shown above.  Alexander married Margaret CAMPBELL , Of Dundurn, Comrie, Perthshire, Scotland, b: ABT 1680 in Perthshire, Scotland.  The Balquhidder parish register refers to Alexander as "in Stronslanie, tacksman of Gartnafuaran".  Alexander and Margaret had the following children:

1. Walter STEWART, b abt 1685 in Gartnafuaran, Balquhidder, Perthshire, Scotland.  We have no evidence for the existence of this Walter.  He is suggested by onomastics only.  As Alexander, 8th of Gartnafuaran, would probably have named his eldest son, Walter, after his own father, then this Walter is suggested accordingly.  However, since we have evidence of a son Walter being born in 1696 to Alexander and as it was the son James who actually inherited, and James probably could not have been after 1696 to have his first son in 1723, then it is suggested that this Walter died as a child prior to 1696.
2. James STEWART , 9th Laird Of Gartnafuaran b: ABT 1690 in Gartnafuaran, Balquhidder, Perthshire, Scotland.  He married Janet CAMPBELL , Of Ardeonaig b: ABT 1700 in Scotland
   1. Their children are presented below.
3. Walter STEWART b: NOV 1696 in Stronslanie, Balquhidder, Perthshire, Scotland.  Walter is shown in the Balquhidder parish register as "Nobr (November) 1697 - Alexander Steuart and Margaret Campbell in Sronslanie and tacksman of Gartnaf___ 1696 had a child baptized and called Walter."

James Stewart, 9th of Gartnafuaran

James STEWART , 9th Laird Of Gartnafuaran b: ABT 1700 in Gartnafuaran, Balquhidder, Perthshire, Scotland as the son of Alexander Stewart, 8th of Gartnafuaran, shown above.  James married Janet CAMPBELL , daughter of Alexander Campbell of Ardeonaig b: ABT 1700 in Scotland.  James is recorded in Duncan Stewart's 1739 Genealogy as the current lord of Gartnafuaran as as having issue.  James and Janet had the following children:

1. Walter STEWART , 10th Laird Of Gartnafuaran b: ABT 23 AUG 1723 in Gartnafuaran, Balquhidder, Perthshire, Scotland.  Walter was the last of the Gartnafuaran Stewart family. He sold the Gartnafuaran lands.  He married Janet STEWART "clandestinely" on 18 APR 1748 in Glasgow, Lanark -- Both residing in Glenfinglas (Callander OPR).  Their children are presented below.

2. Alexander STEWART, b. ABT 28 SEP 1726 or 18 OCT 1726 (double entered) in Gartnafuaran, Balquhidder, Perthshire, Scotland.

3. Colin STEWART, b: ABT 3 JUL 1731 in Gartnafuaran, Balquhidder, Perthshire, Scotland.
4. Robert STEWART, b: 15 JUN 1743 in Blairgarry, Callander, Perthshire, Scotland.
5. Malcolm STEWART, b: 23 MAR 1747 in Blairgarry, Callander, Perthshire, Scotland. (mother given as "Janet Campbell in Blairgarry")

Walter Stewart, 10th of Gartnafuaran

Walter STEWART , 10th Laird Of Gartnafuaran b: ABT 23 AUG 1723 in Gartnafuaran, Balquhidder, Perthshire, Scotland as the son of James Stewart, 9th of Gartnafuaran, shown above.  Walter was the last of the Gartnafuaran Stewart family. He sold the Gartnafuaran lands.  He married Janet STEWART "clandestinely" on 18 APR 1748 in Glasgow, Lanark -- Both residing in Glenfinglas (Callander OPR).  Janet Stewart is believed to be the eldest daughter of John Ban Mor Stewart of Auchanard in Glenfinglas, born ABT 1733 in Perthshire, Scotland.  That they were married in Glasgow suggests they eloped.  The reason for their elopement is unknown, but it could be that she was likely no older than 15 and may have already been pregnant.  Walter and Janet had the following children:

1. James STEWART, b ABT 1748 in Duart, Glenfinglas, Callander, Perthshire, Scotland, suggested by onomastics only.
2. Catherine STEWART, b: 19 APR 1750 in Dowart in Glenfinglas, Callander, Perthshire, Scotland.
3. Alexander STEWART in Torrie, "11th" of the Gartnafuaran family, b: 1 AUG 1751 in Dowart in Glenfinglas, Callander, Perthshire, Scotland.  (The family no longer held the estate of Gartnafuaran at this point.  The numbered designations from this point only signify the senior "representative" of the family.)  Alexander lived at Torrie near Callendar.  Stewarts of the South records him as "father to the present representative, who is named Walter, a clerk in London.  Walter has another brother in the West Indies, Alexander, said to be doing well."  Alexander's spouse is unknown. 
   1. Their children are presented below.
4. John STEWART, b: 8 AUG 1753 in Dowart in Glenfinglas, Callander, Perthshire, Scotland.
5. Margaret STEWART, b: 2 DEC 1755 in Dowart in Glenfinglas, Callander, Perthshire, Scotland.
6. Walter STEWART in Auchnahard, born ABT 1760 in Duart, Callander, Perthshire, Scotland.  No birth record has been found for Walter.  He is believed to be the person described in Stewarts of the South as: "There is also another brother of the real family and is nearest to the above mentioned; [he is] Walter, a tenant in Glenfinglas -- one of the eight tenants of the name of Stewart -- and pays a rent of one hundred guineas. This person is rather a silly indolent man, and, however, has some abilities, but cannot make any use of them, either for himself or family.  [He] is married to a very genteel woman from Aberdeenshire.  [He] has three sons [who are] under age."  And also as: "Mr Walter Stewart, Auchnahard [in] Glenfinglas, of the first branch of Gartnafuaran family, but very [illegible] them, an indifferent character to be so near the head of a family. £105. Earl of Murray's property. Unjustly turned out since this was wrote."  It is further suggested that Walter MAY be the same Walter found in the Callander OPR as follows: Walter Stewart in Auchnahard who married Elizabeth ROBERTSON and had at least two sons,
   1. Daniel STEWART, b 14 MAR 1807 in Auchnahard, Glenfinglas, Callander, Perthshire, Scotland.
   2. Charles STEWART, b 3 NOV 1809 in Auchnahard, Glenfinglas, Callander, Perthshire, Scotland.

Alexander Stewart, "11th" of the Gartnafuaran family

Alexander STEWART, in Torrie, "11th" of the Gartnafuaran family, b: 1 Aug 1751 in Duart, Glen Finglas, Callander, Perthshire, Scotland as the son of Walter Stewart, 10th of Gartnafuaran, shown above.  (The family no longer held the estate of Gartnafuaran at this point.  The numbered designations from this point only signify the senior "representative" of the family.)  Alexander lived at Torrie near Callendar.  Stewarts of the South says he was "a decent respectable manner from a fortune, or small income, which he had by his wife.  He resided at a place called Torrie, near Callendar," and records him as "father to the present representative, who is named Walter, a clerk in London.  Walter has another brother in the West Indies, Alexander, said to be doing well."  Alexander's spouse is unknown.  He had the following children:

1. Walter STEWART, "12th" of the Gartnafuaran family (see above), b: ABT 1775 in Scotland,  Walter is described in Stewarts of the South as being "a clerk in London".  No match has been found in the 1841 England Census.
2. Alexander STEWART b: ABT 1780 in Scotland.  Alexander is described in Stewarts of the South as being a son "who settled in the West Indies."

A family matching this description can be found in the IGI as follows, but this family has not been confirmed:

Alexander Stewart and Janet Stewart, parents of:

1. Alexander STEWART, bap. 25 AUG 1775, Port of Menteith, Perthshire, Scotland
2. Alexander STEWART, bap. 25 AUG 1778, Port of Menteith, Perthshire, Scotland
3. Walter STEWART, bap. 20 JUL 1784, Port of Menteith, Perthshire, Scotland

Cadet Branches

Because this family was a relatively obscure and undistinguished one, much more research must be done before we can learn how most of the eight cadet families of the Stewarts of Gartnafuaran branched off the main lineage. The oldest cadet, the Stewarts of Blairgarry, came from a younger son of the first laird, while the Stewarts of Glenogle came from a younger son of the second laird. Nothing certain is known about the way the remaining cadet branches were connected to the main lineage, except for the Stewarts of Londonderry, New Hampshire, who descended from the second son of the seventh laird. (Jared Olar)

1. Stewarts of Blairgary ("Stewarts of the South" p.62 says the Stuiartich a-Bhaid was the oldest branch of the Gartnafuaran family, so the Stuiartich a-Bhaid were almost certainly the same as the Stewarts of Blairgarry)
2. Sliochd Rob Dhuibh mhoir, associated with Wester Ardchubry, Balquhidder parish.
3. Sliochd Sheun Rob is Alastair oig, associated with Wester Invernenty, Balquhidder parish and later with Duart and Grodich in Glenfinglas.

4. Stewarts of Glenogle, also called the Stewarts of Stronvar & Hyndfield or of Clach-glas.

5. Stewarts of Coille mhori, owned farms in Buchanan and Aberfoil parishes.
6. Stewarts of Port-an-Ealan, so called from a farm near Callendar on Loch Vennacher-side.
7. Stewarts of Brackland, so called Stuirtaich Chireu (or Chiren), associated with Bracklin, Callendar.
8. Stewarts of Londonderry, New Hampshire, later of Colrain, Massachusetts, came to America in 1718 by way of Carrickfergus, Co. Antrim, Ireland.

The Stewarts of Blairgarry

This branch is currently being suggested as the possible ancestors of Branches II, VII, & VIII below and is currently being discussed on our Stewarts of Balquhidder Discussion Forum.

John STEWART , Ancestor Of Blairgarry b: ABT 1500 in Gartnafuaran, Perthshire, Scotland as a son of Andrew Stewart, 1st of Gartnafuaran.  According to Duncan Stewart's 1739 Genealogy, John Stewart, son of Andrew Stewart in Gartnafuaran, was the ancestor of the Stewarts who later lived in Blairgarry.  MacGregor's research has shown that the lands of Blairgarry were held at this time by John's paternal first cousin, Robert Stewart of Blairgarry, who was the son of Patrick Stewart of Ardkinknockane, who is believed to be a brother of Andrew Stewart, 1st of Gartnafuaran.  According to Duncan Stewart's 1739 History, this John was the ancestor of a branch who came into possession of Blairgarry at a later time.  A full description of this controversy and the known descendants of this branch can be found on the Stewarts of Blairgarry a.k.a. Stiubhartich a' Bhaid Page.  Three of many possible explanations present themselves as worth discussing: 1) Duncan Stewart was mistaken (which is not unheard of) and Andrew Stewart, "1st of Blairgarry" below is not the son of this John Stewart, but is instead the grandson of Robert Stewart, previously in Blairgarry; 2) Robert Stewart in Blairgarry had no sons and his daughter became heiress to Blairgarry and married this John or his son Andrew; or 3) that the earlier Blairgarry line became extinct and the lands of Blairgarry reverted to the Earl of Moray, as senior landlord, and were reassigned to this branch.  It is suggested that John was the father of:

1. Andrew STEWART, Baillie of Strathgartney, 1st of Blairgarry, b. ABT 1535 in Gartnafuaran, Balquhidder, Perthshire, Scotland.  Andrew's existence is inferred from a reference made in the Buchanan of Auchmar genealogy: “George Buchanan 3rd in Auchmar, married in his brother’s lifetime Janet Stewart, daughter to Andrew Stewart, who had a beneficial tack [esteemed in these days, equivalent to heritage] of the lands of Blairgarie, and some other lands, from the Earl of Murray, in Strathgartney, and in the Parish of Callander; he was also the Earl’s Baillie in these parts. That family is now (1728) represented by Alexander Stewart [8th] of Gartnafuaroe in Balquhidder parish."  It is suggested that Andrew was the father of:

   1. Andrew STEWART, 2nd of Blairgarry, b ABT 1570 in Blairgarry, Strathgartney, Callander, Perthshire, Scotland.  This Andrew is suggested as the Andrew Stewart in Blairgarry mentioned in the 1622 Bond: "Bond by Alexander Stewart in Ardvorlich, James Stewart, his eldest son, Alexander Stewart in Portnellan, Andrew Stewart of Blairgarrie, Duncan Stewart in Monochyle, Alexander Stewart in Glenogle, John Dow Stewart in Glenfinglas and Walter Stewart his brother german, for all their kin in Strathgartney and Balquhidder, to William, earl of Menteith. Dated in January of 1622."  He is also mentioned in: "Sasine to Andrew Stewart, eldest lawful son of James Stewart of Blairgarry, for the lands of Blairgarry to which Andrew Stewart in Chapel of Lanrick is bailie, and which lands had previously been held by the now deceased Andrew Stewart of Blairgarry, father of the said James." Dated 20 December, 1656. RS51/4/f.131r (National Archives of Scotland c/o Gordon MacGregor).  Andrew was the father of:

      1. James STEWART, 3rd of Blairgarry, b. ABT 1600 in Blairgarry, Strathgartney, Callander, Perthshire, Scotland.  James is recorded in the following sasine along with his father and son, and probable brother.  "Sasine to Andrew Stewart, eldest lawful son of James Stewart of Blairgarry, for the lands of Blairgarry to which Andrew Stewart in Chapel of Lanrick is bailie, and which lands had previously been held by the now deceased Andrew Stewart of Blairgarry, father of the said James." Dated 20 December, 1656. RS51/4/f.131r (National Archives of Scotland).  James was father of:

         1. Andrew STEWART, 4th of Blairgarry, b. ABT 1630 in Blairgarry, Strathgartney, Callander, Perthshire, Scotland.  Andrew is recorded in the following sasine:  "Sasine to Andrew Stewart, eldest lawful son of James Stewart of Blairgarry, for the lands of Blairgarry to which Andrew Stewart in Chapel of Lanrick is bailie, and which lands had previously been held by the now deceased Andrew Stewart of Blairgarry, father of the said James." Dated 20 December, 1656. RS51/4/f.131r (National Archives of Scotland).  As Andrew is recorded in the 1656 sasine as being heir to the lands of Blairgarry, then he would likely be reaching marriage age at that time.  He is believed to be the father of:

            1. Patrick McAndrew STEWART, 5th of Blairgarry, b. ABT 1660 in Blairgarry, Strathgartney, Callander, Perthshire, Scotland.  Patrick's testament is referenced in The Ardvorlich History indicating that he died in 1705.  His patronymic would make it nearly certain that he was the son of Andrew Stewart, 4th of Blairgarry.  His 1705 testament records his lawful son as:
               1. James STEWART, 6th of Blairgarry, b. ABT 1685 in Blairgarry, Strathgartney, Callander, Perthshire, Scotland.  James is recorded in his father's testament as the lawful son of the deceased Patrick McAndrew Stewart in 1705.  The Blairgarry line is recorded in the Buchanan of Auchmar History as having been extinct by 1728 (see reference to Janet Stewart below).  Thus it is suggested that James was the last of the main Blairgarry line and that he either died without issue or emigrated.

      2. Andrew STEWART, in Chapel of Lanrick, Baillie of Blairgarry, b. ABT 1605 in Blairgarry, Strathgartney, Callander, Perthshire, Scotland.  Andrew is mentioned in the 1656 sasine for James Stewart (shown here as Andrew's brother, above), in which he is referenced as being the baillie of Blairgarry and residing in Chapel of Lanrick.  His exact relationship to the Blairgarry family is not indicated, but brother would make the most sense, logically, chronologically, and onomastically.  It is not known if he had any descendants.

   2. Janet STEWART, b. ABT 1575 in Blairgarry, Strathgartney, Callander, Perthshire, Scotland.  Janet is recorded in the Buchanan of Auchmar History as having married (probably ca. 1600) to George Buchanan, 3rd of Auchmar. “George Buchanan 3^rd in Auchmar, married in his brother’s lifetime Janet Stewart, daughter to Andrew Stewart, who had a beneficial tack [esteemed in these days, equivalent to heritage] of the lands of Blairgarie, and some other lands, from the Earl of Murray, in Strathgartney, and in the Parish of Callander; he was also the Earl’s Baillie in these parts. That family is now (1728) represented by Alexander Stewart [8th] of Gartnafuaroe in Balquhidder parish."  Their son, Patrick was married in 1629, thus his mother must have been born ca. 1580 or earlier.

I Branch - Sliochd nan Tigh Mhoil

In Gartnafuaran

This is the main stem of the Gartnafuaran family and is accounted for in detail in the report above.

II Branch - Stuiartich a' Bhaid

In Coilantogle and possibly in Blairgarry

This article is under construction.

This branch is presented in Jared and Belinda's Stewarts of Blairgarry Report.  The following information is excerpted from that report:

Here is Belinda Dettmann’s tentative reconstruction of part of the genealogy of the Stuiartich a’ Bhaid as found in Stewarts of the South, incorporating information found in old Scottish parish registers.

Descendants of Andrew Stewart

Generation One

1.  Andrew STEWART; married Katrin Murdoch 19 March 1750 in Kincardine by Doune, Perth.  This Andrew seems to be the same as “Andrew, tenant in Cuil-n-togle, [who] left two sons William and John.”

    Children of Andrew Stewart and Katrin Murdoch were as follows:

            2.            i.       John, born 28 Mar 1751 Callander, Perth; married Janet Buchanan.

   ii.       William; No date information on the register.

                                    “William is Ground Officer to the Earl of Moray in the town of Doune –

            has one son in a very respectable affluent way in the West Indies.”

Generation Two

2.  John STEWART; born 28 March 1751 Callander, Perth; married Janet Buchanan 8 Jan 1773 Callander, Perth.  This John seems to be the “John is a tenant in ?Enapach near Callander, part of Burrel Drummond’s estate, who had four sons:  only two are alive, one Robert, the oldest, in good circumstances, is a Spirit dealer in Glasgow, and Alexander, who went to the East Indies some years ago, and is in a prosperous way there.”

     Children of John Stewart and Janet Buchanan were as follows:

                        i.          Elisabeth; born 28 Oct 1773 in Culntogil, Callander, Perth.

ii.                   Alexander; born 16 Mar 1779 in Culintogle, Callander, Perth.

iii.                  John a twin; born 14 Dec 1780 in Culntogle, Callander, Perth.

iv.                 Robert a twin; born 14 Dec 1780 in Culntogle, Callander, Perth.

v.                   Walter; born 12 Feb 1783 in Cullintogle, Callander, Perth.

vi.                 Catherine; born 25 Jul 1785 at Calliveag of Cullintogle, Callander.

Now, it should be noted that Stewarts of the South says Robert, son of John, was the oldest son, with Alexander younger than Robert.  The parish register, however, shows Robert as the third son, with Alexander as the oldest.  Stewarts of the South is almost certainly in error on this point, as it occasionally is in error on other matters.  It is all but certain that the family of John, son of Andrew, found in the parish register is the same as the family mentioned in Stewarts of the South, as can be seen not only by the matching given names but also the place names of Cuil-n-togle and Doune.

So far no likely candidates for “James Mor Stewart, formerly tenant in Grodich Glenfinglas, removed thence to Monavrechie, Port parish, Menteith, a famous hardy soldier, who left three sons,” have been found in old Scottish parish registers.

III Branch - Sliochd Rob Dhuibh Mhoir

In Wester Ardchubry in Strathyre, Ardcheanochdan, Letter, and Branchoille

This article is still under construction.

Thanks to Belinda Dettman for the lion's share of research on this family.  This family is being discussed here: http://www.hostmybb.com/phpbb/viewtopic.php?p=866&mforum=stewart#866

The third branch of descendants from the Stewarts of Gartnafuaran were known as Sliochd Rob Duibh Mhoir or "Descendants of Big Black Rob".  Their primary residences were initially Wester Ardchullarie in Strathyre, and later one-fourth of Ardcheanochdan on Loch Venacher in Lower Strathgartney and the properties of Breanachoille and Letter on the northeast shore of Loch Katrine in Upper Strathgartney.  This family is described in Stewarts of the South as follows:

Or what is called "Sliochd Rob Dhuibh mhoir" ("Children of Big Black Rob"), who was a son of Gartnafuara, [and a] tenant of Wester Ardchubry [sic, s/b Ardchulary] [in] Balquhidder parish in Strathyre[,] district of Auchlessy. 

[Big Black Rob's] descendant was Rob McDonachie ("Robert, son of Duncan"), lately one of the four tenants of Ardcheanacnocan who left four sons, [namely]

1. Duncan, [a] tacksman of Letter & Brainchoill [on] Loch Catherineside [in] Callendar parish who has three sons:
   1. Robert, a clerk in London
   2. James, a student of Divinity and
   3. a young boy [who is] under age

   This Duncan Stewart is possessed of some unprincipled abilities; he is tacksman of Brainchoill where there was once a hospitable reception for persons of every description with every mark of kindly hospitality by the late worthy family of Glenbuckie and where there is now neither house nor hall.

   [The SOS Appendix has the following reference, brought forward here for reference.]

   I mentioned in one of the preceding pages, concerning one Duncan Stewart, [a] tacksman of Brainchoil & Letter of the family of Gartnafuaran, which you will notice in the proper place, that he was a dangerous character which truly happened shortly after.  I mentioned likewise in its proper place that Glenfinglas was 800 guineas - 100 guineas to each of the eight tenants there.  This low fellow that raised himself from the dung hill by forwardness and villainy, offered 1200 Guineas for the Glen altogether with 100 guineas in the Earl of Moray's will.  Now bad as he is, the coiff, the Earl would not accept of this, and only advanced the rent of £60.  By this [the Earl] refused fully 400 guineas.  But this present Earl, is acting by the injunctions of his father who directed him not to harass these tenants.  For he is not in himself really bad, if Lady Moray and other bad councillors would not influence him. This Duncan Stewart, it cannot be denied, is a clever fellow, were he to make good use of his abilities.  It was not out of mere spite and malice [that] he did this to his neighbours, who were tenants [at] the time [that] he was a cottar.  His offers, however, rejected here with disdain and so might every one of his kind.

2. David Stewart, his brother [is] a land-surveyor and factor in England.  [He] has one son, a character, who is proof against all disappointments and adversities.
3. Robert, his brother, is a steady [and] respectable man and a clerk in the bank of England and has no family
4. James, his brother, [a] tacksman of Ard-chean-cnocan, has one son.  This man has an opportunity to gain friends and money, but I am afraid he is too much addicted to his cups.

This finishes the account of "Sliochd Rob Dhuibh-mhoir".  Ard-chean-cnocan, belongs to Burrel Drummond and pay of rent 100 guineas.  Brainchoill and Letter pay 200 guineas.  Duncan Stewart has also another farm in Glen-elg which pays £500.

Mitchell's Monumental Inscriptions records the following entries from Kilmahog Cemetery which pertain to this family:

47         (next to 48) James STEWART, late tacksman and landlord of the inn of Ardceanachrochan, 22 FEB 1827, age 55, by wife.

48a       (next to 47) Robert STEWART, farmer (at) Wester Ardcheanacrochdan., wife Janet BLACK, son David born here 1 JUN 1769 went to England at an early age in partnership with his brother as land surveyor and land agent for many years in Great Russel Street Bloomsbury, London, died 26 MAY 1852, age 82, at (the) home of his nephew at Aucharacle near Strontian, Argyll.  (Mitchell notes: see Allan, Emigrants to Canada (The Scottish Genealogist xvii 3 (1970) p. 89-90 – the brothers, Robert and David, were active in the colonization of Prince Edward Island, Canada, and their letter dated 1834 to William Buchanan, Trossachs, is quoted [in the article.])

48b       pelican plucking its breast, in her nest (crest of the STEWART family).

The following two references pertain to this family.  They are believed to have come from Stewart Clan Magazine, but the original source reference has unfortunately been lost.  If any reader is aware of the correct source, please inform us here: http://www.hostmybb.com/phpbb/viewtopic.php?p=875&mforum=stewart#875

David practised as a lawyer in London.
From a hand?written note seen in a file of tourist material in a local library.[on Prince Edward Island, Canada]??: Anyone interested in the local history of P.E.I. would enjoy reading a book titled After Strathgartney. It throws some light on the 'Land Question' by describing conditions under the Landlords.... David Stewart, born at Ardcheanochrochan, Perthshire, Scotland, was the owner of 70,000 acres, comprising Lots 30, 7, 10, 12, and parts of 47 and 27, which he visited from June to August, 1831. He never returned to the Island. His son Robert Bruce Stewart came in 1846, and took possession of the vast property, he built a large house on Lot 30 which he name Strathgartney. Among many privileges he enjoyed as proprietor of a great estate was a private mail bag. In 1875 the Land Purchase Act required him to sell all but 500 acres. His great?grandson, Alan Stewart, has his diary.
(dated 1967, unsigned).

In 1846, Robert Bruce Stewart, David's son, sailed for P.E.I. and settled there as resident landlord. He built a fine house named Strathgartney, apparently after an ancestral home on the shore of Loch Katrine. Descendants of Robert Bruce Stewart occupied Strathgartney until about 1950. The house has now been restored to its original period and is operated as a museum by a private company.
From a brochure circulated by Strathgartney Enterprises Ltd., Charlottetown, P.E.I., 1968. ". . . Strathgartney Homestead was built in 1846 ? 47 by Robert Bruce Stewart, son of David Stewart of Perthshire, Scotland, who received grants of land, totalling over 70,000 acres in P.E.I. David Stewart visited his property in 1831, and in 1846 his son settled as Landlord at Strathgartney.... In 1875, when the Land Purchase Act was passed, Robert Bruce Stewart retained the 500 acres which is today Strathgartney Homestead. . . . the Stewart family continued to live here until 1955, when the Hon. W.F. Allen Stewart, a long?time member of the P.E.I. Legislative Assembly, died....

Rob Duibh Mhor Stewart, patriarch of this branch, is described in Stewarts of the South as being "a son of Gartnafuaran."  That is, he was the son of one of the lairds of Gartnafuaran.  Rob Duibh Mhor Stewart is recorded as having a "descendant" named Robert McDonachie Stewart (Robert, son of Duncan Stewart).  Robert McDonachie Stewart has been identified below in Callander parish records as having married in 1766 in Callander to Janet Black.  As the average age of males to marry in this era was about 30 years of age, then Robert McDonachie was probably born about 1735.  Since Robert McDonachie is described as the "descendant" of Rob Duibh Mhor then we must presume a gap of at least two generations between them.  Otherwise the author would more likely have described Robert McDonachie as Rob Duibh Mhor's "son" or "grandson", rather than "descendant".  If Robert McDonachie was probably born about 1735, this his father was probably born about 1705, his grandfather about 1675, and his great-grandfather about 1645 with an increasing margin of error with each increasing generation.  Thus we are looking for a laird of Gartnafuaran who was probably born no later than about 1675 +/-20 years.  Alexander Stewart, 8th of Gartnafuaran, was having children too late to be the father of Rob Duibh Mhor.  Walter Stewart, 7th of Gartnafuaran, had a son named Robert who has already been accounted for elsewhere and could not be identical with Rob Duibh Mhor Stewart.  Thus, we are looking at Andrew Stewart, 6th of Gartnafuaran as the earliest possible candidate to be the father of Rob Duibh Mhor. However we have no record of Andrew having a son named Robert.  That doesn't mean he didn't have a son, Robert; just that we have no record of any such son.  However, if we go back one more generation we do find that Alexander Stewart, 5th of Gartnafuaran did have a son named Robert.  Thus we suggest that Alexander Stewart, 5th of Gartnafuaran, is the most likely candidate to be the father of Rob Duibh Mhor Stewart.

We are able to fill in at least one more generation with certainty and one or two more with decreasing probability.  We know that Rob McDonachie was the son of a Duncan Stewart.  McDonachie is an Anglicization of the Gaelic mac Donnachaidh, which simply means "son of Duncan."  Thus we can conclude with reasonable certainty that Robert's father was named Duncan Stewart.  This Duncan Stewart was probably born around 1700.  If Rob Duibh Mhor was probably born about 1605 then we can posit about two generations in-between.  We also know that Robert McDonachie was the eldest surviving male descendant, otherwise Stewarts of the South would have mentioned another heir.  If we presume for now, the simplest possible arrangement then onomastics would suggest that the intervening generations would be Duncan Stewart born about 1640 and another Robert Stewart born about 1670.  We have no documentary evidence to support the naming of these intervening generations.

There is a small problem with the reference in Stewarts of the South where it says that Rob Duibh Mhor was a "tenant of Wester Ardchubry [in] Balquhidder parish in Strathyre[,] district of Auchlessy."  There is no known property in Strathyre, nor anywhere in Balquhidder parish, named Ardchubry.  However, there is a property in Strathyre called Ardchullarie which could easily have been written in 1815 as Archulary and incorrectly transcribed as Ardchubry.  The reference to "of Auchlessy" is likely a reference to the family of Buchanan of Auchlessie who were probably the landlords of Ardchullarie.

Robert Duibh Mhor Stewart in Wester Ardchullarie in Strathyre

Robert Dubh Mor STEWART , in Wester Ardchullarie, b. ABT 1605 in Gartnafueran, Balquhidder, Perthshire, Scotland, as the son of Alexander STEWART, 5th of Gartnafuaran, as shown above.  It is suggested that this Robert is likely the patriarch of Gartnafuaran III Branch in Stewarts of the South, known as Sliochd Rob Duibh Mhoir, "Descendants of Big Black Rob"

The sons of Rob Duibh Mhoir are not recorded in Stewarts of the South. As his father's name was Alexander then we can suggest his eldest son was probably named Alexander. Working backwards onomastically from his descendant Rob McDonachie we can suggest that Rob Duibh Mhoir probably had a younger son, named Duncan, whose line became the senior line.

Rob's wife is unknown.  He is suggested as the father of:

1. Alexander STEWART b: ABT 1635 in Wester Ardchullarie, Strathgartney, Callander, Perthshire, Scotland.  There is no documentary evidence of Alexander's existence. He is suggested by onomastics only. If he existed at all it is likely that he either died without male heirs or his line failed within a couple of generations, as it seems most likely that the surviving line descends from his suggested younger brother, Duncan.
2. Duncan STEWART b: ABT 1640 in Wester Ardchullarie, Strathgartney, Callander, Perthshire, Scotland.  There is no documentary evidence to verify the existence of this Duncan Stewart. His name is suggested by onomastics working backwards from his later descendant Rob McDonachie.  Duncan is suggested as the father of:
   1. Robert STEWART b: ABT 1670 in Strathyre or Strathgartney, Callander, Perthshire, Scotland.  There is no documentary evidence to verify the existence of this Robert Stewart. He is suggested by onomastics working backwards from his grandson Rob McDonachie Stewart.  Robert is suggested as the father of:
      1. Duncan STEWART b: ABT 1700 in Strathyre or Strathgartney, Callander, Perthshire, Scotland.  According to Stewarts of the South, the surviving senior male line descendant of Rob Duibh Mhoir Stewart was Robert McDonachie Stewart who has been identified in Callander parish records as having married in 1766 to Janet Black and was likely born about 1730. Robert's patronymic, McDonachie, is an Anglicization of the Gaelic mac Donnachaidh, which simply means "son of Duncan." Thus we can conclude with reasonable certainty that Robert's father was named Duncan Stewart.

         Possible marriages
         1724, Duncan STUART in this paroch and Christ: MCGREGOR in the paroch of Balquhidder listed themselves to be proclaimed in order to marriage Nov 14th and after orderly proclamation were married Dec 7th. (No children recorded for this marriage. Fits onomastically with children shown here.)

         1725, Duncan and Ann STUARTS both in this paroch listed themselves to be proclaimed in order to marriage Jan 15th and after orderly proclamation were married 26th Jan. (No children shown for this marriage.)

         Duncan's wife is unknown.  Duncan was the father of:

         1. Robert McDonachie STEWART , in Wester Ardcheanochdan b: ABT 1725 in Strathyre or Strathgartney, Callander, Perthshire, Scotland.  Robert's information and descendants are presented immediately below.
         2. James STEWART b: ABT 1727 in Strathyre or Strathgartney, Callander, Perthshire, Scotland.  James and Janet may be the ones married as follows: 1756, James STEWART and Janet STEWART both in this parish listed themselves to be proclaimed in order to marriage 13th Nov. and were married 22nd Nov." (Callander OPR) If so, then their first son, Duncan, was born "on the wrong side of the sheets."  James is presumed to have married to Janet STEWART b: ABT 1730 in Scotland, although no record of their marriage has been found.  This family is not mentioned in Stewarts of the South and it would be unusual for a family in this era to have only three children, thus it is suggested that James likely emigrated sometime shortly after 1757.  James and Janet had the following children:
            1. Duncan STEWART b: 11 AUG 1756 in Breanchoile, Strathgartney, Callander, Perthshire, Scotland
            2. Alexander STEWART b: 11 APR 1757 in Breanchoile, Strathgartney, Callander, Perthshire, Scotland
            3. Robert STEWART b: 11 APR 1757 in Breanchoile, Strathgartney, Callander, Perthshire, Scotland

Robert McDonachie (mac Donnachaidh) Stewart in Wester Ardcheanochdan

Robert McDonachie STEWART , in Wester Ardcheanochdan b: ABT 1725 in Strathyre or Strathgartney, Callander, Perthshire, Scotland as the son of Duncan Stewart, shown above.  Robert Stewart is described in Stewarts of the South as: "[Big Black Rob's] descendant was Rob McDonachie ("Robert, son of Duncan"), lately one of the four tenants of Ardcheanacnocan who left four sons."

Robert is recorded in Mitchell's Monumental Inscriptions for Kilmahog Cemetery: 48a       (next to 47) Robert STEWART, farmer (at) Wester Ardcheanacrochdan., wife Janet BLACK, son David born here 1 JUN 1769 went to England at an early age in partnership with his brother as land surveyor and land agent for many years in Great Russel Street Bloomsbury, London, died 26 MAY 1852, age 82, at (the) home of his nephew at Aucharacle near Strontian, Argyll.  (Mitchell notes: see Allan, Emigrants to Canada (The Scottish Genealogist xvii 3 (1970) p. 89-90 – the brothers, Robert and David, were active in the colonization of Prince Edward Island, Canada, and their letter dated 1834 to William Buchanan, Trossachs, is quoted [in the article.])

Robert's date of death is not recorded in the preceding entry. All we can say is that he is buried in Kilmahog Cemetery in Callander parish.  Robert married on 28 NOV 1766 in Callander, Perthshire, Scotland to Janet BLACK b: ABT 1740 in Scotland.  They had the following children:

1. Christian STEWART b: 10 AUG 1767 in Milton, Callander, Perthshire, Scotland
2. David STEWART b: 1 JUN 1769 in Wester Ardcheanochdan, Callander, Perthshire, Scotland.  David Stewart's information and descendants are presented below under "David Stewart and the Prince Edward Island Settlement."
3. Duncan STEWART , in Breanachachoille and Letter b: 6 JUN 1771 in Ardcheanochdan, Callander, Perthshire, Scotland.  Duncan Stewart's information and descendants are presented further below.
4. James STEWART , in Ardcheanochdan b: 29 JUN 1773 in Ardcheanochdan, Callander, Perthshire, Scotland.  James is recorded in Stewarts of the South as follows: "James, his brother, [a] tacksman of Ard-chean-cnocan, has one son. This man has an opportunity to gain friends and money, but I am afraid he is too much addicted to his cups."

   James is recorded in Mitchell's Monumental Inscriptions for Kilmahog Cemetery: "47         (next to 48) James STEWART, late tacksman and landlord of the inn of Ardceanachrochan, 22 FEB 1827, age 55, by wife."

   There is only one birth in Callander for a Robert, son of James Stewart in the right date range and that is the birth shown here in Offrans. Robert is the only child shown for this couple. It is not certain that Robert is the son of James, but he is a perfect fit with the information given above.

   Robert married on 13 AND 24 JAN 1798 in Aberfoyle and Callander, Perthshire, Scotland to Janet STEWART b: ABT 1775 in Aberfoyle, Perthshire, Scotland.  They are believed to have had the following child:

   1. Robert STEWART b: 25 JUL 1798 in Offrans, Callander, Perthshire, Scotland.  Robert's father James is recorded in Stewarts of the South as having one son, whose name is not recorded. There is only one birth in Callander for a Robert, son of James Stewart in the right date range and that is the birth shown here in Offrans. Robert is the only child shown for this couple. It is not certain that Robert is the son of James, but he is a perfect fit with the information given above.  He may be the Robert Stewart found in 1841, Robert is found residing with his cousins at Ardcheanochdan, but more likely this is Robert Stewart, b 1801, son of Duncan Stewart in Breanachoille.
5. Isabell STEWART b: 31 JUL 1775 in Ardcheanochdan, Callander, Perthshire, Scotland
6. Robert STEWART b: 15 FEB 1779 in Ardcheanochdan, Callander, Perthshire, Scotland.  Robert is described in Stewarts of the South as: "Robert, his [Duncan's] brother, is a steady [and] respectable man and a clerk in the bank of England and has no family."  Robert is mentioned in Mitchell's Monumental Inscriptions for Kilmahog parish: "48a: (next to 47) Robert STEWART, farmer (at) Wester Ardcheanacrochdan., wife Janet BLACK, son David born here 1 JUN 1769 went to England at an early age in partnership with his brother as land surveyor and land agent for many years in Great Russel Street Bloomsbury, London, died 26 MAY 1852, age 82, at (the) home of his nephew at Aucharacle near Strontian, Argyll. (Mitchell notes: see Allan, Emigrants to Canada (The Scottish Genealogist xvii 3 (1970) p. 89-90 – the brothers, Robert and David, were active in the colonization of Prince Edward Island, Canada, and their letter dated 1834 to William Buchanan, Trossachs, is quoted [in the article.]) "  In 1841 Robert was residing with his widower brother, David, in St. George Bloomsbury, London, Middlesex, England. Both were employed as surveyors.  Stewarts of the South indicates that Robert had no children by as late as 1815.  It is believed that Robert never married and had no children after that time either.

David Stewart and the Prince Edward Island Settlement

David STEWART b: 1 JUN 1769 in Wester Ardcheanochdan, Callander, Perthshire, Scotland, shown above as a son of Robert McDonachie Stewart.

David Stewart was born in Ardcheanochdan, Lower Strathgartney, Callander, Perthshire, Scotland, and later moved to London, England where he and his brother Robert were employed as land surveyors. David may also have been a lawyer. David was an active land speculator and purchased (possibly with his brother Robert) an enormous quantity of land (either 67,000 or over 70,000 acres depending on which account one follows) on Prince Edward Island, Canada, in contravention of Canada's strict land-ownership laws. These laws were introduced to encourage immigration and discourage absentee landlord ownership. The laws required that any land owner must occupy and begin to develop their lands within one year of purchase or forfeit their lands to the Crown. Duncan never lived in PEI and only visited there once in 1831; he lived in London, England the entire time he was purchasing land in PEI. David was the classic absentee landlord that these laws were enacted to prevent. However the aristocratic legislators in Prince Edward Island were lax in enforcing these laws, so David was allowed to indulge his greed. It was not until a generation later in 1875 that disgruntled and impoverished tenants on PEI rose up in protest and civil disobedience that the provincial legislaters were moved to pass the Land Purchase Act which enabled them to reclaim these large lands from their greedy landlords and redistribute them to resident landlords, and David's son, Robert Bruce Stewart, was forced to sell to the government all but 500 acres of his family's property.

David Stewart is described in Stewarts of the South as: "David Stewart, his [Duncan's] brother [is] a land-surveyor and factor in England. [He] has one son, a character, who is proof against all disappointments and adversities."

David is listed in Mitchell's Monumental Inscriptions for Kilmahog Cemetery: "48a (next to 47) Robert STEWART, farmer (at) Wester Ardcheanacrochdan., wife Janet BLACK, son David born here 1 JUN 1769 went to England at an early age in partnership with his brother as land surveyor and land agent for many years in Great Russel Street Bloomsbury, London, died 26 MAY 1852, age 82, at (the) home of his nephew at Aucharacle near Strontian, Argyll. (Mitchell notes: see Allan, Emigrants to Canada (The Scottish Genealogist xvii 3 (1970) p. 89-90 – the brothers, Robert and David, were active in the colonization of Prince Edward Island, Canada, and their letter dated 1834 to William Buchanan, Trossachs, is quoted [in the article.])

David is described in the following article, believed to have come from Stewart Clan Magazine, however the original reference has since been lost: "David practised as a lawyer in London. From a hand?written note seen in a file of tourist material in a local library.[on Prince Edward Island, Canada]??: Anyone interested in the local history of P.E.I. would enjoy reading a book titled After Strathgartney. It throws some light on the 'Land Question' by describing conditions under the Landlords.... David Stewart, born at Ardcheanochrochan, Perthshire, Scotland, was the owner of 70,000 acres, comprising Lots 30, 7, 10, 12, and parts of 47 and 27, which he visited from June to August, 1831. He never returned to the Island. His son Robert Bruce Stewart came in 1846, and took possession of the vast property, he built a large house on Lot 30 which he name Strathgartney. Among many privileges he enjoyed as proprietor of a great estate was a private mail bag. In 1875 the Land Purchase Act required him to sell all but 500 acres. His great?grandson, Alan Stewart, has his diary. (dated 1967, unsigned)."

David and his descendants are described in the following article from http://www.archives.pe.ca/peiain/fondsdetail.asp?fonds=Acc2316

Strathgartney Homestead, Prince Edward Island, Canada.
Home of Robert Bruce Stewart
http://www.historicplaces.ca/visit-visite/image.aspx?id=7764&imgID=0&ver=1

"The Stewart family of London, England, and Prince Edward Island was one of the largest land-owning families in the history of land proprietorship on PEI. The patriarch, David Stewart, was born in 1769 in Loch Katrine, Scotland. He was trained as a land surveyor and became a successful land agent. He married Martha Mann Hill and had one child, Robert Bruce Stewart, born in London in 1813. As early as 1808, David Stewart began purchasing land in Prince Edward Island and by the 1830's, the Stewarts had purchased Lots 7, 10, 12, and 30 as well as parts of Lots 27, 46, and 47. The Stewart family shared their Great Russell Street home in London with Robert Stewart, David's brother and partner. Robert died in January 1846.

"David's son Robert Bruce received much of his education in the Arts and Sciences independently but was trained as a land agent and surveyor by his father. In London on 27 June 1838, Robert Bruce married Helen Birnie, daughter of the Prince Edward Island merchant, George Birnie. Robert Bruce, along with his wife and their five children left Britain on 29 August 1846 to settle in Charlottetown, PEI. In 1863, Robert Bruce moved his family, now including nine children, to a country estate called Strathgartney on the Stewart property in Lot 30.

"Upon his father's death in 1852, Robert Bruce Stewart became the largest resident proprietor on PEI, owning more than 67,000 acres . He was one of the key players in the Land Question on PEI, fighting long and hard against the Land Purchase Act by which the government would purchase all large land holdings from the proprietors which were to be sold to tenants. In February 1876, Robert Bruce was forced to sell all but 500 acres of his vast estate to the PEI government. Thereafter, Robert Bruce left his Strathgartney home and retired to Charlottetown where he lived with his second wife, Harriet Amelia Mayne, whom he married 7 December 1876. Robert Bruce Stewart died in Charlottetown 9 May 1884."

In 1841 David was residing with his brother, Robert, in St. George Bloomsbury parish in the Holborn Division of the Ossulstone Hundred in the registration district of St. Giles in the Fields, in Greater London, Middlesex, England and both were employed as surveyors. David's wife was not with him and is presumed to have died before 1841.

David Stewart married to Martha MANN b: ABT 1785 in England? although no record of their marriage has been found.

1. Robert Bruce STEWART b: ABT 20 APR 1813 in