Diana Gaboldon included the very real Simon Fraser, Lord Lovat in her novels, but now it’s time for the real history.
Have you ever wondered about some of the characters in Diana Gabaldon’s novels? While most of them are fictional, there are plenty of real people in history included. Bonnie Prince Charlie and King Louis of France will initially come to mind, but there are so many more. One of those is Jamie’s grandfather in the novels, Simon Fraser, Lord Lovat.
Lord Lovat was the last person to be executed by the crown following the Battle of Culloden. Despite being a staunch Jacobite, Lord Lovat claimed that he didn’t approve of Bonnie Prince Charlie’s actions. He thought Charles should have brought more foreign forces to help the cause.
Whatever side he was on and his actions during the ’45, Lord Lovat requested a burial at his home. Initially this was agreed, but the British eventually chose to bury him at the Tower of London at St. Peter ad Vicula, the place the majority of executed traitors were buried (including the likes of Anne Boleyn, Katherine Howard, and Lady Jane Grey).
https://twitter.com/HistoryHit/status/952994260999172096
Simon Fraser’s final burial ground has never been known, as his family has always insisted he was actually brought home. That is until now. HistoryHit TV teamed with the University of Dundee and the Royal Society of Edinburgh to explore the crypt Simon was allegedly buried in at his home. This is the chance to find out if he really is here or whether he’s at the Tower of London.
Dan Snow will reveal the results live on the HistoryHit TV Facebook page. The information will be shared at 7pm UK time, which is 2pm ET and 11am PT.
Update: It turns out Simon Fraser’s body wasn’t in his crypt in his mausoleum. Dan Snow shared a follow-up live video discussing possible future research.
Next: How Outlander got Bonnie Prince Charlie just right
Will you watch the reveal of Simon Fraser’s burial place? Is this something that interests you after watching or reading Outlander? Share in the comments below.
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