No official records of Glenluce Abbey remain, so information comes from contemporary charters and chronicles. Founded around 1192 by Roland of Galloway, Glenluce reflects the influences of Melrose and Dundrennan abbeys, both suggested as the possible mother house. Positioned close to the River Luce and Luce bay it was a convenient stop for pilgrims visiting nearby St Ninian’s shrine. Despite the costs of providing hospitality, the abbey remained in reasonable condition into the early 16th century.

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The Reformation and appointment of commendators heralded numerous disputes over this lucrative position, including one between the Gordons and the Kennedys which lasted from 1544 until 1560 when Thomas Hay, a genuine churchman, became the last abbot.

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