2025 Scholarship – Morgan MacDougall

I am deeply grateful to the MacDougall McCallum Heritage Foundation and Mrs. Margaret Carasik for creating such an extraordinary program that has left an indelible mark on me and will undoubtedly influence past and future scholarship recipients. My heartfelt thanks also go to the staff at DunollieCastle, Museum, and Grounds, as well as the Lismore Gaelic Heritage Centre, for their warm hospitality throughout my stay. This remarkable experience, made possible by their generosity, is one I will cherish forever. Ever since I was a young child listening to my grandfather’s stories about Clan MacDougall history, I have dreamed of visiting Oban, and it was finally made a reality. 

Upon arriving at Dunollie on Monday, I was warmly welcomed by the Heritage Engagement Officer, Jamie McGregor, who provided an insightful and comprehensive tour of the castle and its grounds. The museum captivated me with its fascinating exhibits, ranging from period household items to swords, shields, and personal keepsakes and correspondence from the MacDougall family. Afterward, Jamie and I discussed a project to contribute to Dunollie’s efforts. Having graduated in December with a degree in Urban and Regional Planning, which included extensive coursework in cartography and Geographic Information Systems (GIS), I proposed creating an online, interactive map. This map would illustrate different historical periods of Clan MacDougall control and include pins marking the locations of their former castles, battle sites, etc. 

Throughout the week, I worked on this project at a desk in Dunollie’s office, where I enjoyed engaging with the staff and seeing their work. Their willingness to answer my questions about MacDougall history, Dunollie, and Scottish history and culture enriched my understanding of the efforts required to maintain such a historic site. The collaborative environment fostered meaningful connections and made my work both productive and enjoyable. During my free time I was able to walk around the grounds, exploring the castle more and sites like Battleship Hill, which gave a terrific view of Oban and the surrounding area. There was also a very nice cafe, The Kettle, on the grounds where I was able to have a delicious lunch every day. 

On Wednesday, I visited the island of Lismore, where Dr. Robert Hay greeted me at the ferry dock. His extensive knowledge of the island brought its history to life as he guided me to the ruins of Achanduin Castle, a former MacDougall stronghold on the northwest coast. We continued through Lismore, stopping to see the community-owned store before arriving at the Lismore Gaelic Heritage Centre. Despite its modest size, the museum impressed me with its rich collection of several artifacts and meticulously curated exhibits. I also toured a reconstruction of a traditional island home, which offered a glimpse into the lives of past inhabitants. Lunch at the museum café with Dr. Hay and other members of the board was quite pleasant, with delicious food and interesting conversation.

Our next stop was St. Moluag’s Cathedral, constructed by the MacDougalls in the 12th century. Sadly, much of the original structure was lost during the Reformation, leaving only the choir as the surviving remnant, now serving as the current church. This historic site, however, faces neglect, and Dr. Hay informed me of ongoing studies exploring a potential community buyout, as the Church of Scotland has listed it for sale. The ancient grave slabs displayed in front of the cathedral were equally fascinating. We concluded the day with a visit to the scenic ruins of Coeffin Castle, which further deepened my appreciation for Lismore’s historical and cultural significance. This visit offered profound insights into Scottish island life and the environments my ancestors may have inhabited.

On Friday after my day at Dunollie, Jamie kindly drove me to Dunstaffnage Castle, a historic site that added to my understanding of the region and Clan MacDougall’s rich heritage. It gave me a possible idea of what Dunollie may have somewhat resembled in the past before becoming a ruin. On the Sunday before my departure from Oban, Jamie also took me to the ruins of Ardchattan Priory, a ruined monastery founded by the MacDougall Chief Duncan MacDougall in 1230. The priory’s well-preserved grave slabs, adorned with traditional engravings, likely belonged to prominent MacDougalls or their kin, making the visit particularly meaningful.

This scholarship experience was transformative, blending history, culture, and personal growth. The opportunity to contribute to Dunollie’s legacy through my project, combined with the chance to immerse myself in the rich heritage of Lismore and Oban, has left me with a deeper connection to my ancestral roots and a profound gratitude for the MacDougall McCallum Heritage Foundation.