Bagtown Clans

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Congilton Clan Crest

Clan Congilton Crest
Clan Congilton
CREST: A hind’s head couped at the neck Argent
MOTTO: Magna in parvo
TRANSLATION: Much in little
VARIATIONS: N/A
The Scottish Clan Congilton is a family that gained prominence in East Lothian, around the parish of Dirleton, known for its impressive castle. The family may have originated from Conbilton in Cheshire and given that name to their new possessions in Scotland. The Congiltons are an ancient family, and their history can be traced back to at least the 12th century.
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One of the earliest mentions of the Congilton family is in 1182 when Robert de Congaltoun witnessed a charter. Walter de Congilton witnessed a charter of Dryburgh Abbey around 1224. The family’s coat of arms, as recorded in the Lyon Register, is described as simple, which is typical of very ancient families. At least one cadet branch of the family, Congilton of Dirleton, is also recorded in Nisbet.

The Congiltons appear to have married into other prominent East Lothian families, and by the late seventeenth century, they were still active around Haddington. William Congilton was appointed a justice of the peace for the county of Haddington during this time.

The Congilton family’s connection to Dirleton Castle is particularly noteworthy. The castle was built in the 13th century and was held by the de Vaux family until the 14th century. After that, it passed into the hands of the Haliburtons and then the Ruthvens. The Congiltons are said to have acquired it in the 16th century, and it remained in their possession until the 18th century.

The Congilton family’s history is not without its controversies, though. In the 16th century, a member of the family, Sir James Congilton, was accused of being involved in the assassination of Cardinal Beaton, the Archbishop of St Andrews. The Cardinal was a leading figure in the Scottish Reformation, and his death had significant consequences for the movement.

Today, the Congilton family is no longer considered a formal clan, but its history and heritage are still celebrated by those with connections to the family. The family’s name can be found in the records of East Lothian, and their influence in the region is still evident in the area’s castles and other historic sites.

The Congilton family is an ancient Scottish family with a rich history dating back to at least the 12th century. They gained prominence in East Lothian, around the parish of Dirleton, and were known for their connections to Dirleton Castle. While they are no longer considered a formal clan, their history and heritage continue to be celebrated by those with connections to the family.