Jardine Clan Crest
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CREST: A spur rowel of six points Proper MOTTO: Cave adsum TRANSLATION: Beware I am present VARIATIONS: N/A |
| Deeply rooted in Scottish history, Clan Jardine carries a proud heritage that spans centuries. Derived from the French word “jardin,” meaning “garden” or “orchard,” the name Jardine reflects the family’s proximity to lush landscapes rather than their profession as gardeners. The Jardines made their way to England alongside William the Conqueror during the historic Norman Conquest in 1066. However, their presence in Scotland predates their appearance in England.
The earliest mentions of the Jardine name in Scotland can be found in charters dating back to the 12th century. Notable figures such as Wmfredus de Jardin and Humphrey de Jardin witnessed important charters to the Abbeys of Kelso and Arbroath. The name also appeared in the form of “de Gardinus” with Patrick de Gardinus serving as chaplain to the Bishop of Glasgow in the early 13th century. |
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| Throughout their history, the Jardines faced numerous challenges and engaged in acts of valor. Sir Alexander Jardine of Applegirth, an ancestral stronghold located in Dumfriesshire, played a crucial role in defending the Scottish borders against English incursions. In 1524, Sir Alexander, alongside Lord Maxwell, confronted an English host near Carlisle, securing a remarkable victory and capturing nearly three hundred prisoners.
However, their fortunes fluctuated over time. In 1547, John Jardine, son of Sir Alexander, experienced the wrath of the English when Lord Wharton’s forces overran Annandale, ravaging Jardine lands and compelling Applegirth to submit. Yet, with the aid of French troops, the Jardines later retaliated against the English, inflicting a severe retribution for their previous humiliation. The Jardines remained steadfast in their loyalty to the Scottish monarchy, supporting Mary, Queen of Scots until her controversial marriage to Bothwell. Subsequently, they pledged allegiance to the infant King James VI. For their unwavering support, Jardine was promised a pension from the revenues of the Archbishopric of Glasgow, although it was never fulfilled. One notable figure in the clan’s history was Sir Alexander Jardine, who married Lady Margaret Douglas, sister of the first Duke of Queensberry. Their son, Sir Alexander, was bestowed the title of Baronet of Nova Scotia in 1672, cementing the Jardine family’s place among the Scottish nobility. The Jardines were not confined solely to Scotland. Frank Jardine, a nephew of Sir William Jardine, embarked on a remarkable journey in Australia. Frank’s father, an officer in the colonial service, saw Frank marry Princess Sana, the niece of Moliatoa, the King of Samoa. This connection aided Frank in developing northeast Australia and the state of Queensland, where he established his estate, Lockerbie. The Jardine legacy also extended beyond the realm of politics and warfare. Dr. William Jardine, a surgeon for the East India Company, ventured to the Far East in the early 19th century. He later formed a partnership with James Matheson, resulting in the prosperous house of Jardine Matheson, particularly after the Opium Wars solidified a strong British merchant presence in Hong Kong. Within the Jardine clan, intellectual pursuits and contributions were held in high regard. Reverend John Jardine, born in 1716, emerged as an esteemed clergyman and an influential member of Edinburgh’s intellectual and literary elite. He played a role in launching The Edinburgh Review, a critical journal, and received prestigious appointments as Dan of the Order of the Thistle and a royal chaplain. The Reverend John Jardine’s son, Sir Henry Jardine, followed in his father’s footsteps, combining his legal career with a passion for academia and intellectual pursuits. He held the position of Deputy King’s Remembrancer in Exchequer for Scotland and was present during the rediscovery of the “Honors of Scotland” in 1818. His contributions earned him knighthood in 1825 and membership in the esteemed Royal Society of Edinburgh. The lineage of Clan Jardine has continued through the generations, with each chief leaving their mark on the clan’s history. Sir William Jardine, the twelfth Baronet and twenty-third chief, actively promoted clan activities and served on the Committee of the Council of Chiefs. His dedication and efforts have been carried on by his successor, Sir Alec Jardine, the twenty-fourth chief of the clan. The history of Clan Jardine is one of resilience, honor, and enduring loyalty to Scotland. From their origins in France to their establishment in Scotland, the Jardines faced triumphs and trials, defending their lands, supporting their monarchs, and contributing to various fields of endeavor. Their legacy extends not only within Scotland but also across continents, with notable figures making their mark in Australia and the Far East. Today, Clan Jardine stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of Scottish heritage and the remarkable contributions of its members throughout history. The Jardines exemplify the values of courage, resilience, and intellectual pursuits, ensuring that their legacy continues to inspire and influence generations to come. |
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