Clan Moffat Crest
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CREST: A crest coronet and issuing therefrom a cross crosslet fitchée Sable surmounted of a saltire Argent MOTTO: Spero meliora TRANSLATION: I hope for better things VARIATIONS: N/A |
| The origins of Clan Moffat trace back to a time when William Wallace’s valor echoed through the highlands. Thought to have a Norse lineage, the Moffat name evolved over generations, from Mont Alto to Montealt, Movat, and finally settling into its modern form, Moffat. The earliest known ancestor married the daughter of Andlaw, who hailed from Norway in the 10th century. From these beginnings, the clan’s influence took root, with deeds and records designating them as principal lairds or landowners.
The familial connections extended beyond landowning, as evidenced by the armorial bearings that suggested a link to the church. The Moffats’ presence was not confined to the rolling hills of their homeland; Nicholas de Moffet became Bishop of Glasgow in 1268, highlighting their influence in both secular and ecclesiastical spheres. They even held ties to the Scottish royal family, with a safe conduct granted to William de Moffete and others who were ambassadors from David II, son of Robert the Bruce. |
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| As centuries unfolded, Clan Moffat’s ownership of lands was marked by both prosperity and tribulations. The Moffats held holdings like Granton and Reddings from the 14th century, granted by Lord of Annandale, Sir John Douglas. However, financial difficulties eventually led to the passing of these lands into the hands of the Johnstones. Notable among their holdings was Crofthead, where the family remained as tenants until the early 20th century. The Moffats also spread their influence to other areas, such as Auldtoun (Alton) and Bodesbeck.
Like many Scottish clans, the Moffats were not strangers to feuds and conflicts. Their most formidable adversaries were the powerful Johnstone clan. The animosity reached a tragic climax in 1557 when the Johnstones murdered Robert Moffat and attacked a gathering of Moffats. This event marked a period of perceived leaderlessness for the clan, a state that endured until 1983 when Francis Moffat was recognized as the hereditary clan chief after extensive research. The legacy of Clan Moffat extends beyond Scotland’s shores. Reverend Robert Moffat stands as one of the clan’s most illustrious members. As the patriarch of African missions, he founded the Kuruman mission and became closely linked with the legendary David Livingstone through marriage. This connection forged through missionary work and exploration in Africa remains an enduring testament to the clan’s far-reaching impact. |
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