Pittendrum: Thistle and Rose

Grey Granite and Rufus enjoyed  a late afternoon walk from Phingask to Pittulie. The last of the sun was catching Mains of Pittendrum as they walked down Smiddy Brae.

Several years ago Mains of Pittendrum was inhabited by a lady known locally as the 'Indian Princess' and was in poor condition. It has since been sold and restored to its former glory as a befitted a laird's house, currently work is being carried out on the steading. Pittendrum was one of the 'Three Pits of Hell' (along with Pitullie and Pitsligo) against which the Aberdour minister ranted, so infuriating Lord Pitsligo that in 1630 he built Peathill KIrk and was responsible for the creation of Pitsligo Parish.

Mains of Pittendrum , dating from 1734, is an excellent example of an 18th century laird's house. Seen here in late afternoon sunshine from the Smiddy Brae

The steep 3 storey house was built for the Cumine family, there is a single storey wing on each side of the main central block.

The architraved doorway has a round headed pediment containing a thistle and Jacobite rose. The Cumine coat of arms is in the centre. The Cumines were Jacobite,supporters, William Cumine of Pittulie Castle joined Pitsligo's Horse and took part in the '45, surviving Culloden but being forced to live in hiding in Edinburgh for many years afterwards.