Clan Ruthven

Clan Ruthven is a lowland Scottish Clan, originating in East Lothian.  The Clan was originally Norse, they settled in Scotland during the 12th century.  The progenitor of the clan is considered to be a man named Sweyn, he shows up in early records donating land to a group of Monks.  Swein’s grandson, Sir Walter Ruthven was the first to adopt the surname, Ruthven,  derived from lands north of Loch Rannoch in Perthshire.

The clan’s motto is Deid Schaw, which means, deeds show.  The clan’s crest features a rams head.

The historic seat of clan Ruthven was Huntingtower Castle located near the village of Huntingtower.  The castle was started by the Ruthven family in the late 16th century.  In 1582 the chief of the Ruthven clan was involved in a plot to kidnap King James VI.   The castle was forfeited to the crown.  It was returned to the family in 1586 but was forfeited for good in 1600 after another attempt by the family to overthrow the crown.  The castle is now controlled by Historic Scotland and is open to the public.

In 1581 William Ruthven, was granted the title of Earl of Gowrie by James VI.  The title was forfeited in 1600 after the execution of the chief and his brother.  The title was restored in 1919 and the chiefs of the clan now hold this title.