Call to arms! Re-creation of famous Jacobite battle KILLIECRANKIE: Fierce 17th-Century battle in Highland Perthshire recreated at living history event

Crowds descended on Highland Perthshire at the weekend for a spectacular re-creation of one of Scotland’s fiercest battles.

The Battle of Killiecrankie in 1689 was brought back to life by a community-led re-enactment group.

The action was staged over two days on the old battlefield, off the busy A9.

Members of the Soldiers of Killiecrankie group dressed in authentic 17th-Century costume for the living history event, now in its third year.

The event is organised by the group with the agreement of the operators of the Urrard Estate, who own the battleground.

The battle, which saw Jacobite forces clash with government troops, is significant partly because it was the first fight where hand grenades were used and muskets and cannons were the predominant weapons.

Around 800 Jacobites and 2,000 government soldiers were killed.

As well as the battle re-enactment at the weekend, organisers lined up a series of other attractions including sword dancing and story-telling.

Some items that were found on the battlefield, during preparation work for the A9 dualling project, were also revealed. These included a horse shoe and evidence of musket shots.

Visitors were also invited to try their hand at the soldier’s leap zip wire.

The weekend, which was blessed with mostly dry weather, was brought to a close with a ceremony on the battlefield. jabuchan@thecourier.co.uk

Swords ready: a scene re-enacted from the battle of 1689.

Pictures: Steve MacDougall. On the battlefield are, from left, Clan Rattray historian Rulzion Rattray, Perth and Kinross Provost Liz Grant, event secretary Dorothy Bancroft and Councillor Mike Williamson.

Jim Shankland keeps a close on the “battle” between Nairne Murray, 3, and sister Wyomia, 4.

Marching tune: a member of the ‘Government Troop’ display; right: a cavalry display by Riders of the Storm.