Page "Kelso Abbey" Paragraph 7

After Scotland's royal dynasty began lose the overlordship of Northhumbria during the reign of William I, David's southern " capital " came into close proximity to the border with England and was subject to attack during the Wars of Scottish Independence.

In 1299, the abbot of Kelso was the English appointee, Thomas de Durham ( 1299-1307 ), but the abbey defended its Scottish identity.

Throughout this turbulent period, Roxburgh Castle and Berwick upon Tweed, the major Scottish port serving the area, were frequently under English occupation.

Whenever the abbey was subject to attack, the damage was repaired by the monks.