If Dalgarnoc has a
sanctity, this historic spot bas a glamour all its own upon its
purple heather. The last of the tenantry of the united farms of
Locherben or Laight, Mitchelslacks, and Kirkhop was Walter
Irvine Harkness, who died on 5th April, 1906, leaving no family.
He was interred among his ancestors under a lofty monument in
Dalgarnoc.
In order to commemorate publicly the valuable services,
sacrifices, and heroism of the Nithsdale Covenanters, a
Conventicle was held in Dalgarnoc Churchyard on Sabbath, 25th
July, 1925, under the presidency of the parish minister of
Closeburn, Rev. Charles Rolland Ramsay, M.A., who was assisted
by other local clergy. The present writer gave an account of the
Nithsdale Covenanters, and appealed for funds to renovate their
monuments, and commemorate the local martyrs in an appropriate
memorial. A hearty response was given, which resulted in the
cleaning up and restoration of all the ancient memorials of the
departed there. |
A second Conventicle was
held on 22nd July, 1928, in Dalgarnoc, when an immense assembly,
from many quarters, gathered to witness the unveiling of a
stately Northumbrian Cross in honour of 57 Nithsdale Martyrs,
whose names are inscribed upon it. The religious service by the
local clergy of all denominations, assisted by a large united
choir, accompanied by the Regimental Band of the Seventh
Battalion of the Cameronian Territorial Regiment, under Lieut.
Colonel Vandaluer, and other officers, recalled the former
glories of the ancient sanctuary. The scene contrasted with that
when Colonel John Graham of Claverhouse convened the worshippers
therein. Descendants of the martyrs, Harknesses, and others were
present. Mr. John Cunninghame Montgomerie of Dalmore unveiled
the monument.
(End of Chapter III) |
