Patrick Sellar and the Highland Clearances

by Eric Richards

In April 1816 Patrick Sellar was brought to trial in Inverness for culpable homicide for his treatment of the Highlanders of Strathnaver, the most northerly part of the Scottish highlands. In the process of evicting them from their ancient lands he had allegedly burnt houses, destroyed mills and wrecked pastures. There is perhaps no more hated nor reviled individual in Highland history.

This outstanding new book, however, gives a balanced assessment of the man, a vivid account of a terrible episode in Highland history, and a riveting narration of a tormented life.Richard's book is an account of Sellar's life and times: that he was ruthless, avaricious, devious and cruel is beyond question. But his letters suggest a streak of idealism: did he really believe that the displaced highlanders would be better off, better fed, educated and housed in their new homes? Have the Highlands in the end become more productive and prosperous?

Genres: History

352 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1999

Reviews

[Dave McBain · Rating 3 out of 5]

A very well researched book which wasn't too difficult to read, but for me felt a bit like something written by a solicitor rather than a historian - the facts were well presented but there seemed to me a lack of analysis/judgement. It was all a little even handed and in the end, a character who is still reviled in the Highlands came across as flawed but generally well meaning participant in the clearances. Perhaps this just cut too sharply against my own prejudices, but I came away informed but perhaps not enlightened.