Ewen MacLaine, known as Ewen of the Little Head, scion of the Lochbuie branch of the MacLaines, lived during the 14th or 15th century. His home was Moy Castle, a modest stronghold on the shores of Lochbuie, far from the imposing walls of Duart Castle, seat of his cousin Lachlan of Duart. The two branches of the family were bitterly divided, their quarrels ranging from land disputes to the intricate matters of marriage alliances.
It was in the chaos of one such feud that Ewen met his end. Historical accounts suggest that during a skirmish Ewen was killed in single combat or ambushed, and his head taken, either as a warning or simply as the grim spoils of battle.
Stories tell that Ewen’s horse, loyal even in death, carried his headless body from the battlefield, eventually stopping near the Lussa Burn, where a cairn now marks the place. From then on, the ghostly rider is said to appear on stormy nights, thundering along Glen More, the sound of hooves warning of misfortune and death.
Location: Glen More - Isle of Mull
Type: Haunting Manifestation - Death Omen
Date / Time: 14th or 15th century onwards
References / Further Reading