Clan Lindsay Crest
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CREST: Issuing from an antique ducal coronet Or, the head, neck and wings of a swan Proper MOTTO: Endure fort TRANSLATION: Endure boldly VARIATIONS: N/A |
| The Lindsay clan’s story begins in the late eleventh century when Sir Walter de Lindissie, a noble knight, accompanied David, Earl of Huntingdon, to Scotland to assert his claim to the throne. This marked the family’s entry into Scottish history and their subsequent rise to prominence. Sir William de Lindesay, great-grandson of Sir Walter, held the lands of Crawford, which would eventually become the chief title of the Lindsays.
The Lindsays quickly established themselves as influential figures in Scottish politics. Sir David de Lindsay, the third Lord of Crawford, served as High Justiciar of Lothian and inherited English estates. Another Sir David Lindsay became the High Chamberlain of Scotland in 1256 and took part in the Crusade led by Louis of France in 1268. His grandson, yet another Sir David, affixed his seal to the famous Declaration of Arbroath in 1320, asserting Scotland’s independence. |
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| The Lindsays reached the zenith of their power with the creation of the Earldom of Crawford in 1398. Sir David de Lindsay, known for his prowess on the battlefield and his victory at the tournament at London Bridge, was granted this prestigious title by King Richard II of England. Alexander, the fourth Earl, faced both triumph and tribulation, including rebellion and a subsequent pardon for treason. The fifth and sixth Earls held high positions in the royal court and the Scottish military, respectively.
The Lindsays of Balcarres emerged as a prominent branch of the family, descending from a younger son of the ninth Earl of Crawford. They were granted the Earldom of Balcarres for their distinguished service during the civil war in 1650. Notably, the third Earl of Balcarres, Colin Lindsay, played a significant role in the Jacobite rising of 1715. The Lindsays of Edzell, another branch of the family, left a legacy through the magnificent Edzell Castle and its renowned Renaissance garden. The Lindsays have not only made their mark in politics and warfare but have also contributed to Scotland’s cultural heritage. Sir David Lindsay of the Mount, a member of the family, penned the famous play “Ane Satyre of the Three Estaitis” in 1540. This satirical masterpiece, critiquing corruption in Church and State, still resonates today and has been successfully revived in recent times. The Lindsays continue to maintain their noble heritage, and the present chiefs reside at Balcarres in Fife, actively participating in local affairs. The earldom of Lindsay has also been revived, and the lineage now bears the compound surname of Lindsay-Bethune. Their influence and presence continue to be felt, both through their historical legacy and their contributions to contemporary Scotland. |
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