Baron of the Bachuil
Ancient Baronage of Scotland / Ecclesiastical Office

Style: By the Grace of God
Current Holder: The Much Honoured Niall Livingstone of Bachuil, Baron of the Bachuil by the Grace of God
Heir Presumptive: Catriona, The Maid of Bachuil
Family Seat: Bachuil House, Isle of Lismore, Argyll

Origins

The Baron of the Bachuil is one of the oldest titles in Scotland, with origins in the 6th century and the mission of Saint Moluag. The dignity is bound not to land, but to the Bachuil Mór — the great staff of St. Moluag — whose hereditary custodians, the Livingstones of Bachuil (Gaelic: MacLea), serve as successors (coarbs) of the saint.

A Unique Barony

Unlike feudal baronies, the Bachuil is allodial. Its authority rests in the relic itself, not a royal grant of land. The Baron bears the rare style “By the Grace of God”, formally recognised by the Lord Lyon, and the arms are distinguished by a cap of maintenance lined with vair — a singular heraldic privilege.

Continuity

For centuries the Barons of the Bachuil exercised ecclesiastical and secular duties on Lismore, as almoners, abbots and custodians of the cathedral lands. Today, Niall Livingstone of Bachuil continues this ancient line, recognised as both Baron and Chief of the Name and Arms of Livingstone/MacLea.

Legacy

The Bachuil remains a living link to Celtic Christianity and to Scotland’s pre-feudal order. It is at once a barony, an office of faith, and a family dignity: a title carried forward through devotion, stewardship, and the golden staff of St. Moluag.