Clan Wishart Crest
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CREST: A demi eagle with wings expanded Proper MOTTO: Mercy is my desire TRANSLATION: N/A VARIATIONS: N/A |
| The name “Wishart” is thought to have originated from the old French word “Guishard,” meaning ‘prudent’ or ‘wise.’ However, the exact origins of the clan remain somewhat shrouded in mystery. One theory suggests that the name may have been bestowed upon an individual known for their wisdom and prudence, a characteristic that would become synonymous with the clan.
The earliest recorded mentions of individuals with the name Wishart date back to the 13th century. Notable among them is William Wishard, who witnessed a grant in favor of the Abbey of Cambuskenneth around 1200. Over time, the Wisharts acquired various lands, including Logie and Pitarro, adding to their prominence in Scottish society. |
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| One of the most illustrious figures in Clan Wishart’s history is George Wishart (c. 1513-1546). George was a valiant crusader of the Protestant Reformation in Scotland. After studying abroad in France and Germany, he returned to Scotland, quickly embracing the new Protestant theology. His passionate preaching brought him into conflict with the authorities, and he faced charges of heresy.
Despite the risks, George Wishart continued to preach across Scotland, attracting followers and admirers, including the young John Knox, who would go on to play a pivotal role in the Reformation. In 1546, George Wishart was captured, condemned to death, and burnt as a heretic. His unwavering commitment to his beliefs left an indelible mark on Scotland’s religious landscape. Clan Wishart produced another remarkable George Wishart in later centuries. This George, a staunch opponent of the Covenanters, found himself in Edinburgh’s Tolbooth prison during a turbulent period in Scotland’s history. However, his fortunes changed when he was freed and became the chaplain to the Marquess of Montrose, the king’s captain general. George Wishart later joined the household of Elizabeth of Bohemia, known as the ‘winter Queen’ of King Charles I. His ecclesiastical journey culminated in his installation as Bishop of Edinburgh in June 1662, a position of great prestige. Today, the legacy of Clan Wishart endures through their storied history and the memory of the remarkable individuals who bore the name. The tomb of George Wishart, the Bishop of Edinburgh, can be found within the ruins of Holyrood Abbey, a lasting testament to his contributions to the church and society. |
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