History

Mar Hall, formerly known as Erskine Mansion, was designed by Sir Robert Smirke (who also designed the British Museum) in 1828 on the Earl of Mar Estate. A quarry on the estate provided the beautiful stone used in the erection of the House. Building began in 1820, but was not completed until 1845, 100 years after the famous Earl’s death, in the style of Manorial or Domestic Gothic seen in the time of Queen Elizabeth I.

The oak, however, came from Quebec and was used throughout the house. Total costs in constructing such a magnificent building were £50,000.

It was formerly the home of the 11th Lord of Blantyre which he commenced a few years before his death. The late Lord Blantyre served with great distinction in the army and for some years after the war he held the office of Lord Lieutenant of Renfrewshire. His death was accidental as he perished during the commotions in Brussels in September 1830.



From 1916 onwards the house was used as the administrative Head Quarters for Erskine Hospital, which was set up to care for ex-servicemen. In the year of 1916 the house became known as the Princess Louise Scottish Hospital for Limbless Sailors and Soldiers. During their time spent in the house some of the ex-servicemen were taught to make baskets which were then sold to raise funds for the hospital.

Another pass time for some patients was woodcarving. In the workshop, with modern equipment installed, model yachts, chicken coops and cabinets were made.

Group of Soldiers (Picture above)
This photograph, taken in 1917, shows some of the soldiers who were recovering from their wounds at Erskine House.

Five nurses are also seen in this picture, and one of them appears to be in charge of providing some musical accompaniment with the assistance of the gramophone which would now be a museum piece.

After some general wear and tear the house has now been restored to it’s former glory.
The £15 million refurbishment started in 2002 and many of the house’s fine features have been retained The house has 53 beautifully and individually designed bedrooms, from which the views are breathtaking, whether looking onto the River Clyde or the beautiful landscaped gardens. The Grand Hall, formerly known as the Picture Gallery, is 118 feet in length. Floods of light stream through the tall windows where you can now enjoy light food and drink throughout the afternoon.

The Earldom of Mar

Below is a brief outline of the early history of the Earldom of Mar.

In ancient Scotland, Mar was one of seven Pictish kingdoms. Its rulers were first called Mormaers and later Earls. The Earl of Mar is the oldest title in Britain. Below is a brief list of the early Mormaers and Earls:

Donald Morrmaer of Mar Fought at the Battle of Clontarf in 1014
Ruadri Mormaer of Mar Used the latin tiltle "Comes" meaning earl. 1st Earl of Mar
Morgund 2nd Earl of Mar Witnessed the charters to the Abbey of Dunfermline
William 5th Earl of Mar Regent of Scotland & Great Chamberlain of the realm In 1264
Donald 6th Earl Of Mar Knighted in September 1270
Gratney 7th Earl of Mar Died approx 1305
Thomas 9th Earl of Mar Great Chamberlain of the Realm, Ambassador to England Died in 1377