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Geddes Clan Crest

Clan Geddes Crest
Clan Geddes Crest
CREST: A pike’s head Proper
MOTTO: Durat Ditat Places
TRANSLATION: It enriches, it pleases
VARIATIONS: Ged
The Scottish clan Geddes has a long and interesting history that dates back to the medieval era. The name is derived from the lands of Geddes in Nairnshire, which were in the possession of the Rose family before they obtained Kilaravock. The three silver geds hauriant in the family arms are canting heraldry, a common practice in medieval Scotland.

The family of Geddes of Rachan in Peeblesshire is an offshoot of Geddes of that Ilk, and they were granted the lands of Ladyurd in the barony of Kirkurd in 1406. Master Matthew of Geddes, a churchman, was granted safe conduct into England in 1405 and became rector of the Church of Forest in 1408. Alexander Geddes became licentiate in theology in Glasgow in 1452, and Matthew Geddis was chaplain and secretary to Bishop Gawin Douglas.

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Unfortunately, there were also instances of violence and feuds involving the Geddes family. William Geddes was killed in 1558 by the Tweedies, sparking a long-standing feud with that family. James Geddes of Glenhigton also fell victim to the treachery of the Tweedies in Edinburgh in 1592.

In more recent times, Dr. John Geddes (1739-1799), a bishop of the Roman Catholic Church residing in Edinburgh, was an intimate friend of Robert Burns, the poet. Bishop Alexander Geddes was also an eminent Biblical critic, translator, and poet.

The name Geddes has undergone several spelling variations over the centuries, including Geddeis in 1624 and Cedes in 1664. The Home charters also record the name as Geddas (1494), Geddess (1522), and Gudhose (1474).

Today, the clan Geddes is a small but proud family with a rich history and heritage. While the clan does not have a chief recognized by the Lord Lyon, the traditional clan tartan is green and blue with black and white accents.

In conclusion, the Scottish clan Geddes has a fascinating history that spans many centuries. From medieval times to the present day, the Geddes family has played a significant role in Scottish history and culture, producing scholars, churchmen, and poets, as well as enduring feuds with other families. The clan’s heritage and traditions continue to be celebrated by its descendants around the world.

Citations:

  • – Descriptive catalogue of the clan tartans and family tartans of Scotland with a brief note on their antiquity: also roll of the landlords and Baillies of lands in the Highlands and isles, A.D. 1587: roll of the clans; badges of the clans,
  • – John Catto and Company, King Street, Toronto, CanadaScottish Clan & Family Encyclopedia”, by Collins, HarperCollins Publishers 1994
Clan Geddes Scottish History Poster