In AD1220 an old Cardoness Castle was noted in records, when a Nicholas de Kerdenes and his wife Cicely were in dispute with the monastery at Dundrennan over Cicely's dowry - the litigation went on for over 20 years. Nicholas was probably descended from one of a number of Anglo-Norman lords who were persuaded by the King of Scotland to settle in the area in an attempt to reduce the power of the Lords (King) of Galloway (MacDowalls). The newcomers were well advised to build strong castles and many of these fortresses survive. Today it is cared for by Historic Scotland.