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Keith Hall is an Anglo-Norman castle built circa 1224 which superseded the motte of Caskieben to the north (NJ72SE0040). Norman de Leslie was doubtless the builder. Originally a Z-plan castle, it once belonged to the Johnstons of Caskieben by which name it was know until sold to Sir John Keith, third son of Earl Marischal, in 1662. He built on the large and stately four storey south front, with ogee-roofed pavilions, and added an east wing to the old tower between 1662 and 1700, which completely altered the aspect of the building. He was created Earl of Kintore in 1677. His initials, along with those of this Countess and the prayer 'MAY TRUTH AND GRACE REST HERE IN PEACE', are over the door and comprise the lowest part of a heraldic panel which echoes that created 95 years previously at Huntly Castle. His descendants held the seat until 1984, at which time its was sold and sensitively restored and converted into flats.
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