Clan Erskine

Clan Erskine is a lowland Scottish Clan which originated in the Renfrew region of Scotland. The surname Erskine was derived from a location name on the southern bank of the River Clyde, near Glasgow. The progenitor of the clan is considered to be Henry de Erskine who was on record witnessing a charter in 1226. The Erskine’s were supporters of Clan Bruce during the War of Scottish Independence. They gained significant power after the war, David II appointed Sir Robert de Erskine as keeper of Stirling Castle. He also make Sir Robert Erskine the Chamberlain of Scotland.

The clans motto is Je Pense Plus which translates into “I think more”, and the clans crest features a hand holding a dagger rising from a chapeau.

The Clans historic seat is Alloa Tower located in Clackmannanshire Scotland. The tower house was built in the 14th century. A tower was built on the property as early as 1223 to protect the Firth of Forthe. John Erskine in 1710 built a large mansion that incorporated the existing tower. In 1800 the house burnt down but was rebuilt in the early 19th century by a man name George Angus. Alloa tower is now owned by the National Trust for Scotland and is open for tours.

The chief of Clan Erskine fled to France during the Jacobite rising in the 18th century. The clan’s titles and lands were forfeited to the crown. In 1875 the House of Lords restored the clan’s titles.

The Clan Erskine Society, based in Albuquerque, New Mexico is the largest Erskine Society in the world. Their goal is to unite members and connect them with travel and genealogical resources. They also focus on clan gatherings and Scottish festivals.