Bagtown Clans

All About Scottish Clans!

Clan Paisley Crest

Clan Paisley
Clan Paisley
CREST: A dexter arm from the shoulder in amour grasping a dagger all Proper
MOTTO: Be Sure
TRANSLATION: N/A
VARIATIONS: N/A
The name Paisley finds its origins in the lands and barony of Paisley, located in the western part of Scotland. It was closely associated with the great Paisley Abbey, which bore the same name. The earliest records of the name Paisley date back to charters witnessed by William Passelew during the reign of William the Lion in the late 12th century. These early records provide a glimpse into the clan’s deep historical roots.

One of the most significant connections of the Paisley clan is to the Paisley Abbey itself. William de Passelet, a member of the clan, witnessed a charter by Alan, son of Walter the Steward, to the abbey around 1150. This historical link suggests that the clan may have played a role in the abbey’s development and history, adding to its historical significance.

Clan Paisley Crest Shirt
Purchase @ Redbubble
Purchase @ Amazon.com
Purchase @ Amazon.co.uk
Throughout its history, the Paisley clan produced notable figures who left their mark on Scotland and beyond. Dominus John de Passelet, a Canon of Glasgow Cathedral, witnessed a gift of lands in 1320, showcasing the clan’s presence in important historical events.

One of the most renowned figures from the Paisley clan is Admiral Thomas Pasley, who distinguished himself in 1794 during the “glorious first of June,” a pivotal naval battle against the French. His contributions in the field of naval warfare added to the clan’s legacy of service to the nation.

General Sir Charles Pasley, a distinguished military engineer, made significant contributions to the field of military engineering, particularly in the development of pontoon bridges. His work was groundbreaking, and he established the Royal School of Military Engineering at Chatham. His academic achievements were recognized when he received the degree of Doctor of Civil Laws at Oxford in 1844.

The Paisley clan’s legacy has not faded into history. The Pasley Baronets of Craig, located in Dumfriesshire, continue to represent the clan today, maintaining a connection to their ancestral roots.

In more recent times, a tartan was designed in 1952 to honor the clan’s heritage. Additionally, a family society was established in 1988, with Paisley of Westerlea at its helm. This society aims to bring together Paisleys from around the world, strengthening their connection to their homeland in the west of Scotland and preserving the clan’s unique history.

Citations:

  • Descriptive catalogue of the clan tartans and family tartans of Scotland with a brief note on their antiquity: also roll of the landlords and Baillies of lands in the Highlands and isles, A.D. 1587: roll of the clans; badges of the clans, John Catto and Company, King Street, Toronto, Canada
  • Scottish Clan & Family Encyclopedia”, by Collins, HarperCollins Publishers 1994