Crichton Clan Crest
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CREST: A dragon spouting out fire Proper. MOTTO: God send grace TRANSLATION: N/A VARIATIONS: N/A |
| The Scottish Clan Crichton has a rich and fascinating history, dating back to the early twelfth century. The clan’s members have played important roles in Scottish society over the centuries, holding positions of power and prestige, as well as experiencing tragedy and scandal. In this blog post, we will explore the history of the Clan Crichton, from its early beginnings to the present day. | |
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| The Crichton family’s origins can be traced back to the lands of Kreitton, which formed one of the earliest baronies around Edinburgh. The family is mentioned in charters from the early twelfth century, and Thurstan de Crechtune was a witness to the foundation of the Abby of Holyrood House by David I in 1128. Thomas de Crichton, believed to be Thurstan’s son, was one of the Scottish nobility who swore fealty to Edward I of England and is listed in the Ragman roll of 1296. Thomas had three sons, each of whom extended the family’s holdings.
One of the most notable members of the Crichton family was Sir William Crichton, who served as Chancellor of Scotland during the minority of James II. He is infamous for organizing the “black dinner” at Edinburgh Castle, in which two members of the Douglas clan were executed after a royal banquet. The Douglases retaliated by laying siege to the castle and attempting to assassinate Crichton. He was eventually sent to arrange the marriage of the king and was raised to the peerage as Lord Crichton. Another notable member of the family was James Crichton, known as “the Admirable Crichton,” for his incredible intellectual and physical abilities. He was reputed to have mastered all the knowledge of his time and could speak and write at least ten languages. He was also an accomplished equestrian and swordsman. Despite his talents, he met a tragic end when he was killed by his own pupil in Mantua. The family’s fortunes have been mixed over the centuries, with members experiencing both great success and scandal. The family’s lands and titles were forfeited for treason during the rebellion against James III, and the Castle of Crichton passed through various hands. The family later gained the barony of Sanquhar and saw Robert Crichton elevated to the peerage as Lord Crichton of Sanquhar. However, the family’s fortunes were mixed, with members facing scandal and disgrace over the years. Today, the chiefly line of the Clan Crichton descends from the Crichtons of Frendraught, with the present chief residing at the Castle of Monzie near Crieff. The family has a rich and varied history, filled with triumphs, tragedies, and scandal. The Clan Crichton’s story is a testament to the enduring legacy of Scotland’s great families and their impact on the nation’s history. |
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