The Howie family of Ayrshire in the 17th century holds a prominent place in Scotland’s rich tapestry of religious and social history. During a time marked by significant religious strife and the rise of the Covenanting movement, the Howies stood out for their unwavering Presbyterian faith and resilience.

Situated in the parish of Fenwick, their ancestral home at Lochgoin was more than just a farm. It became a bastion of religious resistance. The Howies, devout Presbyterians, found themselves deeply entwined in the Covenanting cause, a movement fiercely opposing the attempts by the Stuart kings, particularly Charles I and Charles II, to impose an episcopal system of church governance.

The 17th century was particularly harsh for Covenanters. Many faced persecution, imprisonment, and even execution for their beliefs. The Howie family was no exception. Lochgoin farm often served as a sanctuary for fugitive Covenanters, a place where they could gather for clandestine worship and find refuge from the authorities. This farm was a beacon of defiance and faith, representing the broader struggle of the Scottish Covenanters during this period.

One of the most renowned figures to emerge from this lineage was John Howie of Lochgoin (1735–1793). Though he lived in the 18th century, John Howie became the chronicler of his family’s and his forebears’ trials and triumphs. His work, “The Scots Worthies,” published in 1775, is a collection of biographies of key Covenanting figures, preserving the oral histories and traditions passed down through generations. This book offers invaluable insights into the lives of those who fought for religious liberty, highlighting the pivotal role the Howie family played in this struggle.

The legacy of the Howie family is one of perseverance and faith. Their experiences encapsulate the broader narrative of the Covenanters—ordinary Scots who stood firm in their beliefs against overwhelming odds. The Howies’ story, preserved through the meticulous records of John Howie, remains a testament to their enduring spirit and the profound impact they had on Scotland’s religious heritage.