Pocket watch
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Object number19812
TitlePocket watch
Creator J.or Nospmis J Vospmis?
DescriptionWe can normally only imagine the events an old object has experienced. The delightful countryside scene painted around the dial of this pocket watch, hallmarked as being made in 1737, does not hint at the story that it shares.
The watch was owned by Robert Forrester, one of many gentlemen in the Stirling area who supported Prince Charles Edward Stuart and the Jacobite cause. Forrester lived at Wester Frew, next to the Fords of Frew that lie north of Kippen and near to Flanders Moss. The Fords were an important crossing point over the River Forth, a vital passage between the Highlands and the Lowlands. This was especially crucial during the retreat of the Jacobite army in 1746.
The normal route north would have taken the Bonnie Prince and his followers across the Forth at Stirling Bridge. However, the governor of Stirling Castle, General Blackeney, had blown up the south end of the bridge, forcing them to find another crossing point. For the government army, time was of the essence – they sent troops under a Captain Campbell to Frew to hinder the retreat. This they did by throwing caltrops (spiked metal objects used to impede horses) into the river. Unknown to Campbell, Forrester had directed them to a different ford.
The following day the Jacobite army arrived and were able to cross the Fords of Frew unhindered. It is amazing to think that this pocket watch was most likely present as Forrester and his family met Prince Charles and safely guided him and his troops on their way.
DescriptionPocket Watch belonging to R Forrester when he led Bonnie Prince Charlie across Fords of Frew avoiding the Calthrops in1745. Silver case. Brass outer case. Ploughing scene on dial. 3 repair labels ( George Paterson on back) (1846,52.76) Wm Harvey, King St. Genealogy notes in history file.
Production placeLondon. Hallmark 1737(case).
Production date 1737
Object nameWatch
Techniquewatchmaking