The Brave Sacrifice Of Roderick Mackenzie

For months after the battle of Culloden, Bonnie Prince Charlie was hunted relentlessly by government forces across the Highlands and Islands. Despite a £30,000 reward on his head, none of those who knew his location were willing to give him up, while plenty were willing to give their life for his protection instead.

One man did more than most, Roderick Mackenzie the son of an Edinburgh goldsmith. He was the spitting image of Charles, becoming close friends with the prince and being appointed as his body double and personal guard. Like most Jacobites, he was on the run in 1746, finding a good hiding place in a cave in Glen Moriston.

Unfortunately, one day while down by the river, Roderick was spotted and captured by soldiers. He knew his own time was up but saw an opportunity for one last act of loyalty to his leader. The prisoner turned to face his captors and declared that their search was over: he was Bonnie Prince Charlie.

Taking no chances, the soldiers immediately shot brave Roderick, whose final words were "You have murdered your prince!" Cutting off his head, the delighted redcoats took it to Fort Augustus to claim the reward. While nobody would positively identify it, the Duke of Cumberland was convinced enough to call off the manhunt and follow the head down to London.

Thanks to Roderick’s sacrifice, Bonnie Prince Charlie was able to slip through the net and by the time their mistake was discovered, it was too late.