ONE OF the bloodiest episodes in Scotland’s history was commemorated in highland Perthshire at the weekend.

Clad in period Jacobite dress, participants in the annual Killiecrankie Memorial Walk traced the route taken by the Jacobite forces on their way to battle in 1689.

Organised by the Crann Tara Group, the event recalled how Bonnie Dundee, John Grahame of Claverhouse, led his army against the government troops led by General Hugh MacKay of Scourie.

The two armies faced each other for nearly two hours before Bonnie Dundee gave the order to charge. Just 15 minutes later the battle was over.

The battle caused the deaths of more than 500 Jacobites—including Grahame himself—with the Redcoats suffering casualties estimated at up to 1700.

Saturday’s event marked the 319th anniversary of the Killiecrankie conflict and was as poignant as ever.

Organiser Kenny Borthwick said, “Bonnie Dundee was robbed of his life in his moment of glory as the Williamite army of between 3500 and 4000 was routed by his 2000 Highlanders.”

Crann Tara walked the route taken from Blair Castle to the battlefield, where a wreath was laid at the monument within the grounds of Urrad house to the fallen of both sides.

After that participants returned to St Bride’s Kirk within the grounds of Blair Castle to lay a wreath at the tomb of John Grahame.

Historical references were made throughout the walk with speeches, a musket salute and a piper’s lament at the burial sites.

When the event was first staged 12 years ago, there were only five people present, but that number has now grown to nearer 75.