ROB MCLEOD

(b. c1430s d. ?)

BIOGRAPHY:

Rob Mcleod was born on the Isle of Skye in the mid 1430s. Although he was not of Noble Birth, being a clansman, he was taught to fight with sword, axe and spear from childhood.
In the late 14th century the Black Death struck Scotland four times resulting in enormous loss of life. On top of the mortality caused by war those peasants that survived were under great demand by the noble Scottish families and therefore went through an unexpected period of prosperity.

He had fought in many clan wars and like many of his countrymen he became a mercenary, living by his sword. As his experience of war grew, Rob recognised the benefits of the English Longbow and deciding to learn for himself he soon became adept at the use of the weapon. He first fought for France but soon found his fortunes would be better served fighting for the Burgundians under Charles the Bold.

On hearing of the death of his father in 1468 Rob had intended to make his way back to Scotland, however, he was now fighting for Charles of Burgundy who had recently allied with England through his marriage to Margaret of York. In August, the Battle of Montlhéry broke out and Rob’s sword was required. After the battle was over, Charles emerging victorious, Rob was eventually able to quit the company of the Burgundians and take ship for Scotland. However, his ship was embroiled in a vicious storm and blown severely off course. Eventually, they washed up on the shores of Southern England. Rob was one of the few to have survived the voyage and having lost everything in the storm he was forced to work to make his way back North.

At the moment he has taken up temporary employment with Sir Edward Northwood, his archery skills proving particularly useful for Sir Northwood’s retinue of Archers.