ND2873 : Castle of Mey The Sinclairs (Earls of Caithness) had a seat here from 1470-1889, when the 15th Earl died. The 14th Earl who lived 1820-1881 is remembered for having introduced the first steam car into Caithness. The Queen Mother bought the castle in 1952 in a eun-down state, but restored it and the gardens to glory. In 1996 ownership was transferred to a Trust, for the benefit of the local community.