Skene House is a significant historical building located in the heart of Aberdeen, Scotland. This elegant property, with its roots dating back to the 17th century, showcases a blend of architectural styles and historical influences that reflect the rich heritage of the region.
My family is of Scottish origin. As a sept of the Skenes, the Hall Clan has a special interest in the goings-on at Skene House, so I was intrigued to learn the family’s history of paranormal doings.
Skene House was originally built in the 17th century by Sir George Skene of Rubislaw, a prominent figure in Aberdeen’s history who served as Provost (equivalent to a Mayor) of the city. Sir George was known for his successful trading ventures and contributions to the city’s development. The house was designed as a stately residence, embodying the grandeur of its era with fine craftsmanship and ornate details.
The Tale of Alexander Skene’s Encounter with the Devil
The legend begins with Alexander Skene, who was said to be a brave and adventurous man. The Wizard Laird of Skene, Alexander allegedly earned a degree in Necromancy from the University of Padua. He was well-known and well-feared in the area as a wizard. It was said that his magical powers were so great that wherever he walked, he did not cast a shadow.
According to local lore, late one night Skene had a visit with a mysterious figure. As the story goes, this was no ordinary visitor; it was the Devil incarnate. Alexander summoned his carriage driver Kilgour late one night to transport the passenger, instructing Kilgour not to look at the guest.
The night would have passed without incident had Kilgour’s curiosity not gotten the better of him. As they approached the other side of the loch he did what his master had told him not to do – he turned round. What he saw terrified him, for there sat the unmistakable horned, cloven-footed figure of the devil himself – Auld Nick.
As soon as Kilgour turned to look the ice cracked, the devil turned into a raven and flew off and the coach and horses sank to the bottom of the loch. Whether the laird and his coachman escaped depends on which variation of the tale you hear. To this day when the lake in front of Skene House freezes over, it is said that you can see carriage tracks in the ice.
This story, while enthralling, lacks substantial historical evidence and seems to be more of a mythological embellishment than a documented event. However, it contributes to the enigmatic aura surrounding Skene House and sets the stage for the numerous ghost stories that have followed.
Skene House: A Brief History
The building is named after one of its owners, Sir George Skene (1619-1708), a wealthy merchant and Provost of Aberdeen from 1676 to 1685. The house was used by Hanoverian troops as a billet during the Jacobite rebellion and the Duke of Cumberland stayed here on his way to Culloden.
The building is a classic example of Scottish Baronial architecture, characterized by its robust stone construction, turrets, and crow-stepped gables. These features reflect the typical defensive style of Scottish manor houses from that period. Over the centuries, Skene House has undergone various modifications and restorations, yet it has retained much of its original charm and character.
The Allure of Skene House
Regardless of where one stands on the paranormal spectrum, there is no denying the allure of Skene House. Its majestic architecture, coupled with its intriguing history and legends, makes it a fascinating destination. For those interested in history, it offers a glimpse into the grandeur of the Victorian era. For thrill-seekers and ghost hunters, it provides a tantalizing opportunity to explore the unknown.
Although it is not historically known for hauntings and has not, to my knowledge, been investigated for any paranormal activity, the legend of the Wizard Laird of Skene remains one of the lesser-known paranormal tales from the Elizabethan Era. As a tale of one of my distant relatives, the story has always fascinated me, and I hope to visit one day to see the lake for myself.
Visiting Skene House
Skene House stands as a testament to the enduring power of history and legend. Whether you believe in the legend of the Wizard Laird of Skene or are a staunch skeptic, visiting Skene House offers a unique blend of architectural beauty, historical intrigue, and a touch of the macabre. The story of Alexander Skene’s encounter with the Devil, though likely a fanciful tale, adds a layer of mystique to this already fascinating location.
So, the next time you find yourself in Aberdeen, Scotland, consider paying a visit to Skene House. You just might find yourself caught between the worlds of the past and the present, the natural and the supernatural.
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Have you visited Skene House or encountered a ghostly presence there? Share your stories and thoughts in the comments below!
Happy Haunting!