Gordon Clan Crest
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CREST: Issuant from a crest coronet Or a stag’s head (affrontée) Proper attired with 10 tines Or MOTTO: Bydand TRANSLATION: Remaining VARIATIONS: N/A |
| The history of Scottish Clan Gordon is a fascinating and complex tale of a powerful family that rose to prominence in medieval Scotland and played a significant role in shaping the country’s history over the centuries. From their origins in the Borders to their heyday as one of the most powerful clans in the north, the Gordons have left an indelible mark on Scottish society that can still be seen today. | |
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| The Gordons trace their origins to Anglo-Norman settlers who came to Scotland in the 12th century, and the first certain record of the family dates back to the reigns of Malcolm IV and William the Lion. From there, the Gordons quickly rose in prominence, with Sir Adam de Gordon serving as one of the wardens of the marches in 1300 and becoming a staunch supporter of Robert the Bruce during the Wars of Scottish Independence.
For their services to the king, the Gordons were granted the lands of Strathbogie, which had been confiscated from the Earl of Atholl for treason. The Castle of Strathbogie was renamed Huntly after a portion of the Gordon lands in Berwickshire, and the family soon became embroiled in the deadly battle for power between the king and the Douglases. Despite suffering devastating losses at the hands of their enemies, the Gordons eventually emerged victorious, and their control over their lands became almost regal. The Gordons continued to play a prominent role in Scottish society throughout the centuries, with the fourth Earl of Huntly serving as Chancellor of Scotland in 1547 and becoming a close confidant of the regent, Mary of Guise. However, the family’s staunch Catholicism put them at odds with the young queen, Mary, Queen of Scots, and led to their downfall. Despite losing much of their power and lands as a result of their involvement in the Jacobite uprisings of the 18th century, the Gordons have remained a prominent family in Scotland to this day. Their legacy can be seen in the many places and institutions that bear their name, including Gordon Castle, Gordonstoun School, and the Gordon Highlanders regiment of the British Army. |
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