Keith Clan Crest
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CREST: Out of a rest Coronet Or, a roebuck’s head Proper, attired Or MOTTO: Veritas vincit Truth conquers TRANSLATION: Truth conquers VARIATIONS: N/A |
| The rich and storied history of the Scottish Clan Keith stretches back centuries, with tales of valor, loyalty, and influential figures that have left their mark on Scotland’s past. From the Battle of Barrie in 1010 to the present day, the Keiths have played a significant role in Scottish history and have left a lasting legacy.
It all began with a warrior of the Chatti tribe, who bravely slew the Danish General Camus at the Battle of Barrie in 1010. Impressed by the warrior’s valor, King Malcolm II dipped three fingers into the blood of the slain and drew them down the warrior’s shield, henceforth naming him Marbhachair Chamius, or ‘Camus Slayer.’ This act marked the beginning of the Keiths’ connection to this legendary event. |
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| The Battle of Chathem in 1018 saw King Malcolm II’s victory, leading to his possession of Lothian. As a result, the Camus Slayer, now a renowned figure, held the Lothian lands of Keth, which eventually gave rise to the Keith family’s name. In 1150, a Norman adventurer named Hervey married the native heiress of Marbhachair and received a charter for the lands of Keth from King David I.
The Keiths’ prominence continued to grow, and in 1176, Hervey’s son was granted the title of ‘Marischal of the King of Scots.’ This title would remain within the family until the attainder of George, the tenth Earl Marischal. The Marischal held the crucial role of custodian of the royal regalia and was entrusted with the safety of the king’s person within Parliament. In 1308, King Robert the Bruce granted the Aberdeenshire royal forest of Halforest to his friend, Sir Robert de Keth. It was here that the Marischal built his castle, becoming a significant stronghold for the Keiths. The family’s connections and influence continued to expand, as demonstrated by Sir William of Galston, who returned Robert the Bruce’s heart to Melrose Abbey after the demise of the Black Douglas in Spain. Through the years, the Keiths solidified their place in Scottish society. In 1458, the third Lord Keith was elevated to the peerage as Earl Marischal, becoming the only peer to be styled by his great office of state. The Keiths were instrumental in inviting the reformer John Knox back to Scotland in 1559, and the fourth Earl Marischal founded Marischal College in Aberdeen, leaving a lasting impact on education and learning. The Keith family’s involvement in Scottish affairs continued, with notable figures such as George, the fifth Earl Marischal, undertaking diplomatic missions, including the embassy to Denmark that resulted in the marriage of James VI to Princess Anne. However, the Keiths also faced challenges. Following their support of the Jacobite cause in the Forty-five Rebellion, the tenth Earl and his brother, James, forfeited their lands, castles, and titles. Throughout the eighteenth century, the Keith brothers played active roles in Continental affairs. Despite setbacks, the Keith family persevered and remained influential. Recognition as a representative of the Marischals was granted to Keith of Ravelston and Dunnottar in 1801 by the Lord Lyon. The clan’s prominence continued into the nineteenth and twentieth centuries, with notable figures serving as Governors and promoting the clan internationally. Today, the thirteenth Earl of Kintore carries on the Keith family’s traditions, residing on the Keith Hall estate in Aberdeenshire. The clan’s history and heritage are preserved through the appointment of a hereditary sennachie, ensuring that the legacy of the Keiths lives on and continues to inspire generations to come. The Keith family’s commitment to Scotland and their unwavering loyalty to their heritage have solidified their place as one of the prominent Scottish clans. The story of the Clan Keith is one of resilience, honor, and enduring legacy. From their origins as warriors on the battlefield to their influential roles within the Scottish nobility, the Keiths have left an indelible mark on Scottish history. Their connection to significant events, such as the Battle of Barrie and the Battle of Chathem, showcases their bravery and military prowess. Throughout the centuries, the Keiths have held prestigious titles and positions, including the Marischal of the King of Scots. Their role as custodians of the royal regalia exemplifies their loyalty and trustworthiness in protecting Scotland’s symbols of power and authority. The family’s commitment to education is exemplified by the establishment of Marischal College, which has shaped the minds of countless scholars and contributed to the intellectual growth of Scotland. The Keiths’ journey has not been without challenges. The forfeiture of lands and titles due to their involvement in the Jacobite cause demonstrates their unwavering support for their beliefs, even in the face of adversity. Their resilience and ability to adapt to changing circumstances allowed them to continue contributing to Scottish society and maintain their prominent standing. |
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