Clan Strachan Crest
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CREST: A demi stag springing Or holding a thistle in his mouth Proper MOTTO: Non Timeo Sed Caveo TRANSLATION: I do not fear but am careful VARIATIONS: N/A |
| The name Strachan finds its roots in the heart of Kincardineshire, a region nestled in the eastern part of Scotland. Its etymology can be traced back to the Gaelic word “srath,” which means “broad mountain valley.” It’s a name that perfectly encapsulates the picturesque landscapes and rolling hills of the clan’s ancestral lands.
The historical records of Clan Strachan date back to the 13th century when Walderus de Stratheihen made a significant grant of lands to the Church of St. Andrews in 1200. This act of generosity set the stage for the clan’s enduring connection to its homeland. |
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| John, the son of Rudolph de Strachane, followed in his predecessor’s footsteps by gifting lands to the Abbey of Dunfermline, an act that was formally confirmed by a charter granted by Alexander III in 1278. These early acts of land grants reveal the clan’s dedication to both their spiritual and familial communities.
As the centuries passed, the fortunes of Clan Strachan evolved. The barony of Strachan and the lands of Feteresso transitioned from Strachan hands to the Keith family through marriage during the reign of David II. However, the Strachans retained their connection to their homeland through the acquisition of lands in Thornton in Kincardine. One of the most distinguished moments in Clan Strachan’s history came in May 1625 when Sir Alexander Strachan of Thornton was granted the title of Baronet of Nova Scotia by King Charles I. This royal recognition marked a significant achievement for the clan and solidified their standing in Scottish society. Clan Strachan’s legacy is not limited to land-based endeavors. Admiral Sir Richard Strachan, the sixth Baronet, made a name for himself during the tumultuous Napoleonic Wars. On November 2, 1805, his squadron engaged and captured four French battleships that had eluded Lord Nelson’s victorious fleet at the Battle of Trafalgar. Sir Richard’s heroic actions earned him a Knighthood of the Bath and the Freedom of the City of London. While the title of Baronet became dormant in 1854, the legacy of Clan Strachan lives on in the annals of Scottish history. Their contributions to their homeland, the valor of individuals like Admiral Sir Richard Strachan, and their enduring connection to the breathtaking landscapes of Scotland’s northeast continue to be celebrated. |
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