Bullseye March 2005 3 of 6
Turnbull Trails
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FULTON TOWER Lying between Hawick and Jedburgh, Fulton Tower is what remains of a 16th century tower house. Historical significance to Turnbulls: The tower home belonged to Margaret Home of Cowdensknowes prior to her marriage to William Turnbull of Bedrule, at which time it came into the possession of the Turnbulls from Lord Home, Margaret’s father. Interesting Facts: Located about a mile and half due south of Bedrule, “Fulton Glen” is referred to in a poem by Walter Laidlaw as a place that was pleasant to go when truant from school. However, the name Fulton is probably derived from “foul toun” presumably named so because the area had a noxious odor coming from the ground before the land had proper drainage.
It is believed that the original Fulton Tower may have been constructed of timber. But in 1535 it was ruled that all substantial landholders should within the next two years erect a fort or tower of “stone and lyme on a scale in accordance with their means.”
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Rev. Alexander Craig
of the parish of Bedrule writes in 1837 that the last occupant of Fulton
Tower was a strong Turnbull who was at deadly feud with the Kers. While
holding his infant child on his lap and oblivious to danger he was
attacked by the Kers. He died in an effort to take his sword and defend
himself.
Sights to see: While the remains of Fulton Tower are anything but majestic, it is a stop that should not be missed. Apart from the history and connection to the Turnbull Clan, the surrounding fields, meadows and views are worth the visit. The environment around the Tower is one of natural beauty. To the west can be seen Ruberslaw, the 1400 ft. mountain that is a landmark view in much of the Borders. The somewhat rugged hills surrounding the Tower are dotted with sheep and various natural plants of the area.
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