Dunning, Perthshire, is a charming wee village nestled at the foot of the Ochil Hills near Perth. Surrounded by picturesque farms, woodlands, and rolling fields, this historic village is home to some interesting landmarks. These include the ancient St. Serf’s Church, the Dupplin Cross and not forgetting the mysterious Maggie Wall Memorial.
The Meaning of Dunning
If your surname is Dunning, then you may be able trace your ancestry back to Anechal, Thane of Dunning. Anechal was a witness to Earl Gilbert of Strathearn’s charter of Madderty in 1199. Some believe that he adopted his name from the village of Dunning. In fact, the name comes from the Gaelic Dùnainn, which means little fort.
However, in England, the surname Dunning has a different meaning. It likely came from the Old English word dunn to mean dull brown colour often used to describe the coat of a horse. Early records of the name appear in Gloucestershire in 1066, Somerset in 1271, and Worcestershire in 1275.
St. Serf’s Church in Dunning, Perthshire
St. Serf’s Church stands in the centre of the village. This medieval church is one of several in Scotland dedicated to St. Serf.
- St. Serf’s Church, Culross in Fife
- St. Serf’s Parish Church, Dollar in Clackmannanshire
- Fossoway St. Serf and Devonside Church in the Crook of Devon
- St. Serf’s Chapel on St. Serf Island in Loch Leven
I have written a bit about him in previous articles. He was an early Christian missionary known for spreading Christianity among the Picts.
The Dunning St. Serf’s Church was first mentioned in a 1219 charter. The document referred to ‘Ecclesiam Sancti Servani de Dunnyne’ (St. Serf’s Church of Dunning), suggesting an earlier church was already established.
In addition, evidence suggests the presence of a Saxon-style doorway on the north wall, while the medieval-style tower is thought to date back to the mid-12th century.
The site also reveals earlier connections. A Pictish stone was discovered beneath the tower during 19th century repairs.
Known as the Dupplin Cross, the stone features intricate carvings, including a Celtic cross. Dating to around 900 AD, it points to an earlier Pict settlement in the area. While the original stone is preserved in the National Museum of Scotland in Edinburgh, visitors to Dunning can view a replica at the church.
Over the centuries, the church has undergone significant changes. For example, after the Reformation in 1560, a laird’s gallery was added in 1687.
During the 18th century, as Dunning recovered from the Jacobite torching of 1716, the church was expanded to accommodate more worshippers.
The Maggie Wall Memorial in Dunning Perthshire
Just outside Dunning, there is another interesting landmark called the Maggie Wall Memorial. Dedicated to a woman named Maggie Wall, legend has it that she was burned as a witch in 1657. That particular year falls within the period of intense witch hunting in Scotland when thousands of women, and men, were accused of witchcraft and then executed.
However, Maggie Wall’s story remains a mystery. There is no historical record of her trial or execution.
In addition, the origins of the memorial are also unclear. It is thought to have been constructed in the 18th or 19th century, long after the supposed events.
Nevertheless, some speculate that she symbolises the many unnamed women who suffered during the witch trials.
Conclusion…
From this article, I hope you realise that Dunning, Perthshire, is a village rich in history. Whether you are tracing your ancestry, exploring its historic landmarks, or simply enjoying a meal in one of its cosy pubs, Dunning is an interesting place to visit.
Thank you for joining me on an another historical journey into an Scottish village.
Please remember to leave a comment below and if you want me to write about your ancestral village or parish, then please let me know.
Good luck with your family history research.
Until my next post, haste ye back.
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