French scottish clans. The Scottish Gaelic word clann means children.

French scottish clans In 1244, Aleumnus Mercer, along with twenty-three others, was party. Each year almost 50,000 people from across the world meet in Edinburgh, to celebrate Scottish culture and heritage. The Scottish clan system dates back to the 12th Century. The origins of these clans speaks to the invasions and migrations into Scotland over the centuries. Scotland’s rich history has given rise to last names which can provide useful clues, but beware — bearing a clan name doesn’t necessarily mean you are descended from a clan chief! Dec 30, 2024 · Explore the fascinating history and traditions of the Top 20 Famous Clans of Scotland. The May 23, 2023 · It wasn’t uncommon for the clans to be inter-related, meaning families often served rival lords. The Origin of the Scottish clans Many Scottish surnames are the names of Scottish clans that were once powerful families dominating large swaths of territory. Feb 16, 2021 · In the last few days I have worked on finding the haplogroups of the clan chiefs of Scottish clans. A Jacobite army under Charles Edward Stuart was decisively defeated by a British government force under the Duke of Cumberland, ending the Jacobite rising of 1745. Dive into Scotland's heritage with our in-depth collection. Explore a comprehensive table of Scottish clan names and their rich mottos. It was the bloodiest battle in Irish history and thousands of Gallowglass died on either side. However, you didn’t need to be related to the clan chief to The Battle of Culloden took place on 16 April 1746 at Culloden, Highland, near Inverness in the Scottish Highlands. Links to Regiments and Scottish historical Re-enactment organisations and Scots at Home and Abroad are also here. [1] In early times, and possibly even today, Scottish clan members believed themselves to descend from a common ancestor, the founder of the clan, after whom the clan is named. Image: WIPL. Beautifully photographed in high definition, they are accompanied by a specially recorded music soundtrack. The Scottish Gaelic word clann means children. Origins of the name "Stewart" The name "Stewart" was taken from the word "steward" - the protector and caretaker of an estate. When people attempt to “find my clan,” they’re expressing their need to find kinship, to connect with their Scottish heritage, and to join a welcoming community. uk is the official body for recognized Scottish clan chiefs. [3] It was a royal house in the 14th century, producing two kings of Scotland (Robert the Bruce and David II), and a disputed High King of Ireland, Edward Bruce. The Battle of Culloden[a] took place on 16 April 1746, near Inverness, in the Scottish Highlands. Discover all about the Scottish Clans and Families history, symbols, organisation, and territories on the map. ” The core surname of the clan. A presentation of the Scottish clans and their symbols: origins, tartan, crest, motto - Page 1 = Stewart, MacLeod of Lewis, Murray, MacKinnon Scottish Americans or Scots Americans (Scottish Gaelic: Ameireaganaich Albannach; Scots: Scots-American) are Americans whose ancestry originates wholly or partly in Scotland. The Lady Saltoun ⇨ View All Fraser Tartan Products Fraser Jun 26, 2024 · Here are just some of the more interesting everyday phrases and words that were first used by Scots or have a Scottish connection. The Stewart clan motto is "Virescit vulnere virtus" which means "Courage grows strong at a wound". While the system has changed over the centuries, with many of the old clans no longer in existence, it still plays an important role in Scottish life. Read all about Clan Fraser, their history, tartan, crest, feuds and descendants! The Great Scottish Clans series of films on DVD. This unique heritage underscores Scottish Ancestry Resources including Directory of Scottish Clans, Families, Castles, and Homes. Pages in category "French people of Scottish descent" The following 51 pages are in this category, out of 51 total. Whether you are a member of a Scottish clan or simply interested in Scottish history and culture, learning about the clan system is a great way to deepen your A Scottish clan (from Scottish Gaelic clann, literally 'children', more broadly 'kindred' [1]) is a kinship group among the Scottish people. Owned by the French spirits giant Pernod Ricard, it was the ‘number one premium whisky’ in France in 2015 (IWSR). Family tradition (recorded in a manuscript of Charles Dieudonné Monroe written in 1727) tells us that he was a relative of the Chiefs of the Clan Munro. Almost all of them have extensive surname DNA projects, so it was easy in most cases. Clans, Tartans, Regiments This section covers Clans, Clan Societies, Families, Tartans, Kilts and Highland dress generally. Rooted in the Burgundian French origin, the name Fletcher comes from the word "flechier," meaning an arrow-maker. The crest badges used by members of Scottish clans are based upon armorial bearings recorded by the Lord Lyon King of Arms in the Public Register of All Arms and Bearings in Scotland. Mar 28, 2025 · It may have Norman-French origins (from Fortenbras, meaning “strong in the arm”) or may have originated as a local name given for martial prowess. Websites like Scottish Tartans Authority and House of Tartan help you find tartans associated with your surname. Mary was later briefly Queen of Scotland and France. From tumultuous rivalries, to magnificent legends, Scottish clans offer a lot to excite the imagination. With names ranging from modern to traditional, these Scottish surnames are rich in history, culture, and geography, with inspirations from royalty, foreign influences, and the sheer beauty of the dramatic Scottish landscape. Translations in context of "Scottish clans" in English-French from Reverso Context: In France, Scottish clans have been represented since the beginning of the 2000s. Scottish clans are a fascinating part of the country’s history and culture. Step 1: Gather Information about Your Ancestors The first step in discovering what Scottish clan your Sent from Scotland and commanded by Scottish lords, the guardsmen saved many a French King during battle. The second language is Latin. [6] By the late 14th century, the renewal occurred regardless of whether either kingdom was at war with England at the time. However, that soon changed at the Battle of Baugé, as the French were still reeling from the Clan Central is the portal to an unrivalled range of resources on Scottish heritage and dress. [8] The majority of Scotch-Irish Americans originally came from An invasion force of 27 ships, carrying 5,000 soldiers, set sail from Spain aiming to rally the Scottish clans. [18] However, it is a common misconception that every person who bears a clan's name is a lineal descendant of the chiefs of that particular clan. “During the Hundred Years’ War, when the French king Clan Sinclair (Scottish Gaelic: Clann na Ceàrda [ˈkʰl̪ˠãũn̪ˠ nə ˈkʲaːrˠt̪ə]) is a Highland Scottish clan which holds the lands of Caithness, the Orkney Islands, and the Lothians. The Frasers of Lovat are strongly associated with Inverness and the surrounding area since the Clan's founder gained lands there in the 13th century. Scotland 's clan system has a long and rich history. The clans are even older than Scotland itself, and many people - especially expatriates living abroad - regard them as a vital part of the country's Scottish Tartans are a clan identifying mark, but this only became so in later years, whereas previously it was a commonly used material, though tartan was banned at times in Scotland's history. In the Scottish clan system, a chief is greater than a chieftain (ceann The Gallowglass (also spelled galloglass, gallowglas or galloglas; from Irish: gallóglaigh meaning "foreign warriors") were a class of elite mercenary warriors who were principally members of the Norse-Gaelic clans of Ireland and Scotland between the mid 13th century and late 16th century. As among the Scottish clans, trading and raiding against one another proved commonplace among the American Indians. The collection comprises many Victorian pieces together with some related articles from South African and English Scottish formed Regiments. Clan societies and gatherings, such as the annual Highland Games, celebrate the history, traditions, and camaraderie of clans. So here we'll guide you through the process of identifying what Scottish clan or clans your family belongs to. This list may not reflect recent changes. The Clan has been strongly associated with Inverness and the surrounding area since the Clan's founder gained lands there in the 13th century. Sep 20, 2022 · Robert Amyot MacKinnon is proud to be the commissioner of Scotland’s Clan MacKinnon in France and in continental Europe. Scottish Americans are closely related to Scotch-Irish Americans, descendants of Ulster Scots, and communities emphasize and celebrate a common heritage. Spens Clan Crest: A hart’s head erased, Proper Clan Motto: Si Deus Quis Contra (If God is For Us Who is Against Us) Origin of Name: French Clan Chief: Patrick Spens, 4th Baron Spens ⇨ View All Spens Tartan Products Spens Clan History The surname Spens, or Spence, is thought to derive from the Old French word fo Why do historical Scottish Clans have their mottos primarily in Latin or French, instead of Gaelic? Clan Fraser of Lovat (Scottish Gaelic: Friseal [ˈkʰl̪ˠãũn̪ˠ ˈfɾʲiʃəl̪ˠ]) is a Highland Scottish clan and the principal branch of Clan Fraser. The Act of Proscription provided a way out, for it was a deliberately double-edged sword Mar 30, 2025 · Wallace Surname Origin & Association: From Old French waleis, meaning “Welshman. Charles landed in Scotland in July 1745, seeking to restore his father James Francis Edward Stuart to the British Dec 30, 2024 · Explore the fascinating history and traditions of the Top 20 Famous Clans of Scotland. Complete with histories, tartans crests and much more. The Scottish Clan Map provides a geographical representation of where clans historically lived in Scotland. Feb 23, 2020 · Most people searching for their Scottish heritage are hoping to connect with a Highland clan (think feudal system, kilts and the Scottish Gaelic). On a trip to Scotland, you could uncover the legacy of Scottish clans for an interesting insight into the country's history. We would like to show you a description here but the site won’t allow us. If you are even partly of Scottish descent, discovering what clan your family belongs to can provide a deeper understanding of your roots and help you connect with your heritage. Jul 28, 2020 · Discover the history and legacy of Clan Fraser. . The chiefs of the clan were the Barons of Roslin and later the Earls of Orkney and Earls of Caithness. For Scots across the globe, buying a Great Scottish Clans DVD will be like owning a piece of family history. Clans give a sense of shared heritage and descent to members, and in modern times have an official structure recognised by the Court of the Lord Lyon, which regulates Scottish heraldry and coats of arms. In this case, the estate was the Kingdom of Scotland. Choose from 5000+ tartan fabrics for Scottish heritage products. The official in charge of the Scots household and treasury was given the title Steward, which became the name Stewart possibly as far back as the 12th century. When one branch of the Stewart migrated to live in Scottish Clans & Families At ScotClans we have listings for over 400 Scottish Clans and Families. Jan 22, 2025 · Modern-Day Scottish Clans Today, Scottish clans remain a source of pride for people in Scotland and the Scottish diaspora. All Coats of Arms are described in the French language. They originated as autonomous, self-governing kin-based tribes with traditions of Gaelic Clan and Family Search Search our entire database of clans and septs, including septs recognised by the Standing Council of Clan Chiefs, additional septs without a formal association, and common misspellings, translations and other phonetic and historical variations The French Branch of the Monroes descends from a mythical figure who lived in the 17th century in Scotland and Ireland. On the Jacobite side, this included clans Maclean, Stewart of Appin, Mackintosh, MacDonald, and Fraser, as well as the Atholl Highlanders. Uncover the historical significance, translations, and symbolism behind these cherished clan expressions. Learn about their tartans, traditions, and contributions to Scottish heritage and culture. Or maybe the concept of Scottish clans just intrigues you. In 1325 a Scots College was established at the University of Paris. This research has also helped to shed light on the relationships between different clans and Jul 5, 2025 · The Scottish clans system has ancient origins in the Celtic traditions and can be traced back to a time when people lived off the land, and border disputes were a common occurrence. Apr 22, 2016 · What did Highland warriors do after the defeat of the clans at Culloden? As this Italian print of a Highland soldier who served in the British Army during the War of the Austrian Succession (1740-1748) makes clear: one way of preserving the warrior tradition was to join the victorious army. They also discuss the case of another Scottish family which was granted a quarter of France in their arms, namely and Dating back to 1295, the Auld Alliance was built upon Scotland and France’s shared interests in controlling England’s aggressive expansion plans. Scottish Clan System One of the most important factors in Scotland's development as a nation over the last 1000 years has been the existence of the clan system. A Jacobite army under Charles Edward Stuart was decisively defeated by a British government force commanded by the Duke of Cumberland, thereby ending the Jacobite rising of 1745. Read more about the clan system! Tartan(Scottish Gaelic: breacan[ˈpɾʲɛxkən]), also known, especially in American English, as plaid(/plæd/), is a patterned cloth consisting of crossing horizontal and vertical bands in multiple colours, forming repeating symmetrical patterns known as setts. This lineage of bowyers played a crucial role in the defense and warfare strategies of their time, carving out a significant place in Scottish history. As well as soldiers, scholars were exchanged. Despite their common roots, these clans have distinct identities, each with its chief officially recognized by the Standing Council of Scottish Chiefs. www. The term Scoto-Norman (also Franco-Scottish or Franco-Gaelic) is used to describe people, families, institutions and archaeological artifacts that are partly Scottish (in some sense) and partly Anglo-Norman (in some sense), after the Norman Conquest. The clan chief (ceannard cinnidh) is the representative of this founder, and represents the clan. Tartan patterns vary in complexity, from simple two-colour designs to intricate motifs with over twenty hues. The trade boomed for centuries, surviving even the Reformation, and there are still wineries with Scottish connections and roots today, such as Johnston & Fils. Mar 26, 2025 · Septs of Clan Cameron Chalmers (and Variants: Chambers, Chambre, Camerarius) Surname Origin & Association: Chalmers (including Chambers, Chambres, and Latin forms like Camerarius or French de la Chambre) originates from a Cameron clansman who entered French military service and adapted his name to suit the local language. At the annual Clan Gathering, thousands line the Royal Mile to watch the Great Clans of Scotland proudly parading through the capital. Jun 15, 2025 · Find out the origin and meaning of these 100 popular, and unique Scottish boy names to choose the most suitable one for your handsome lad. Elsewhere, the Genealogy section of Rampant Scotland Directory also contains references to some clan/family histories while Clan/Family Histories section Discover the history and heritage of the Fraser family. [3] It is not to be confused with the Clan Fraser of Lovat who are a separate Scottish clan of the Scottish Highlands (though with a common ancestry). These films are presented by the noted Scottish author and broadcaster, Carl MacDougall. The following is a list of Scottish clans (with and without chiefs) – including, when known, their heraldic crest badges, tartans, mottoes, and other information. So Why are Scottish clan mottos in French? Many Scottish clan mottoes have been composed in French because that tongue, along with Latin, shared the spotlight as a prestige language from the time of the Norman invasion onward. [a] The Clan Fraser of Lovat in Inverness-shire has historically dominated local politics Scottish icons--a castle, bagpipes and a piper in tartan The Clans of Scotland are one the most iconic and internationally recognised feature of the nation. The Scots, a people of northwestern Europe inhabiting the semi-autonomous British country of Scotland, descend from a combination of two Celtic-speaking peoples: the Picts and the Gaels, along with later arrivals like Cumbrians (another Celtic-speaking group), Anglo-Saxons, Norse, French, and people from the Low Countries (including the Flemish from Flanders). Scottish clan tartans The tartans in this list are those ascribed to particular clans of Scotland, including Highland, Lowland, Isles, and Borders clans. Confusingly, some sept names are shared by more than one clan, due to migration or clan boundaries shifting over time. Centered in Liddesdale, they commanded thousands of reivers and resisted royal The "Stuart" spelling arose because there was no letter "w" in the French language and Mary Queen of Scots, in particular, became Mary Stuart, following her marriage to the Dauphin of France, later King Francis II. The clan and family societies they find are far different than the original clans that evolved to survive in the land now called Scotland. Have you ever wondered where your Scottish surname comes from, or the history of clans in Scotland? The clan history of Scotland is full of epic tales, historic heroes and well-known battles, so read on to find out all you need to know about our clans. The Scottish clan system is a unique and fascinating aspect of Scottish culture. The alliance was renewed by all the French and Scottish monarchs of that period except Louis XI. The unit continued until the Auld Alliance ended in the 16th century, after which the name continued as a sign of honor, even though it included Frenchmen. The history and origins of Scottish surnames (aka Scottish last names) and naming practices, are fascinating and complex. Their status varies widely; armigerous clans generally accept them, while some have been officially adopted or rejected by a clan chief. This was the language of the church and scholars. Hon. Feb 19, 2025 · We have journeyed through the vast and beautiful highlands and lowlands to bring you this spectacular list of Scottish last names, perfect for inspiring any new clan. The following is a list of Scottish clans – including, when known, their heraldic crest badges, tartans, mottoes, and other information. The collection is one of its type, unique and comprises rare pieces. It originally applied to Scots, who shared a common background and language with the Irish, but as they Fraser Gaelic Name: Friseal Clan Crest: On a mount a flourish of strawberries leaved and fructed, Proper Clan Motto: All my hope is in God Origin of Name: Fraisse (strawberry) in French Clan Badge: Yew Lands: East Lothian, Aberdeenshire Clan Chief: The Rt. Oct 12, 2018 · Proud, loyal and reliable in battle: that's Clan Fraser. These mottos are formulated in Latin, Scottish English, Scottish Gaelic and Old French and are reduced to one-word and multi-word mottos: Tace (Lat. With Aberlour May 27, 2022 · Scotland Now Heritage 15 of the most famous Scottish clan names, their mottos and meanings These clans have had a lasting impact not only on Scotland but also around the world. The list includes most of the peerage of Scotland from Viscount to Duke. Their histories are woven with tales of valor, loyalty, and cultural significance. We’re going to cover the Jacobite clans and family names, as well as their role in the Battle of Culloden. If you have Scottish roots, you might be curious to discover more about which clan you are a part of. Sep 23, 2024 · Explore the rich history behind Scottish surnames and meanings, reflecting Scotland’s cultural and linguistic influences, from Norse to Norman heritage. It is a name of occupational origin, referring to someone who is a merchant in textiles or cloth. Clans may maintain an unofficial list of septs, but there is no central register. Learn more here. Jonathan is selling the entire collection on one swoop. He lives in Aubigny-sur-Nère (Cher) in central France, a town with historic Scottish roots dating back six centuries. Historical Context: Derived from Richard Wallace of Ayrshire, forefather of Sir William Wallace. Find your Scottish Family History. [6][note 6] There are several reasons for this. French visitors will have found much that was familiar in Scotland, including the Loire-style architecture of many Scottish castles. [7] The alliance began with the treaty signed by John Balliol and Philip IV of France in 1295 against Edward I of England. clanchiefs. Historical Context: Clan Armstrong became one of the most powerful and feared Border clans by the 16th century. Discover the Rich Heritage of Scottish Tartans Explore our archive of tartans, learn about their history, and find the perfect one for your clan. Name became clan identifier during Wars of Independence. Mar 27, 2025 · Surname Origin & Association: Brisbane is of Norman-French origin and was established in Ayrshire and Lanarkshire. At the battle of Knockdoe in 1504 the armies of both sides featured thousands of Gallowglass mercenaries. When the French retook the Bordeaux region during Hundred Years’ War, Scotland benefitted from a trade preference in French wine, and claret became a Scottish staple. On the government side, this included clans Sutherland, MacKay, Ross and Grant to name a few. Scottish genealogy research has significantly impacted our understanding of Scottish clans. One peculiar aspect of the "auld alliance" between France and Scotland (founded on the common enmity with England) was the existence of French titles held by Scots nobles. Originally, it encompassed extended networks of families who were loyal to a particular clan chief. See also The summary table on Celtic tribes (in French) Celtic peoples Irish clans Scottish clan Celticization Late Basquisation Illyrians Thracians Britannia Caledonia Hibernia Scotia Hispania List of Germanic peoples Iberia Pre-Roman peoples of the Iberian Peninsula The Jacobite rising of 1745[a] was an attempt by Charles Edward Stuart to regain the British throne for his father, James Francis Edward Stuart. It is used to refer to people or things of Norman, Anglo-Norman, French or even Flemish or Breton origin, [1][2] but who are associated with If you’re interested in the Jacobite clans - you’ve come to the right place. Highland clans belonging to R1b-L21 Feb 23, 2019 · The lack of written records makes the re-creation of Native history before contact a bit more problematic, but anthropologists agree that, mirroring Scottish culture, the band or town served as the chief social unit here, too. Nov 13, 2019 · Which Clans Fought at the Battle of Culloden? Read More A number of Scots fought at Culloden. The Dauphin took further actions to secure Scottish loyalty. – keep silence, the Abercombie clan); Creag an fhitich (Gael. [4] Jan 11, 2024 · Clan castles: Whose clan seat is that? As part of our clan special, our resident Scottish genealogist brings us 12 of his favourite clan castles and the clans linked to them May 25, 2024 · The name "Fletcher" is synonymous with mastery of the bow, a legacy that stretches back to medieval Scotland. Clan Baillie is a lowland Scottish clan, [2] that is recognized as such by the Lord Lyon King of Arms. Learn meanings behind 500+ surnames and trace your roots in 2025. Both clans have their own separate chief, both of whom are officially recognized by the Standing Council of Scottish Chiefs. The name Mercer comes from the French word mercier. It took place during the War of the Austrian Succession, when the bulk of the British Army was fighting in mainland Europe, and proved to be the last in a series of revolts that began in March 1689, with major outbreaks in 1715 and 1719. What is a Clan? The word ‘clan’ derives from the Gaelic word ‘clann’ or ‘clanna’ for children and describes a close-knit group of relatives. – the rock of the raven, the MacDonnel clan), Keep trust (Engl. Most clans have their own tartan patterns, usually Scotland's oldest and largest online Scottish heritage store, all authentic goods locally made in traditional quality. But most of the ships were dispersed by storms and only 300 Spanish troops managed to land on the west coast of Scotland. However, as the clan does not currently have a chief recognized by the Court of the Lord Lyon, it is therefore considered an armigerous clan. At its simplest a clan is an extended family, with kinship ties binding related branches of the same family tree and different surnames linked through a common shared history. Clan Bruce (Scottish Gaelic: Brùs) is a Lowlands Scottish clan. Charles Why do Scottish clans have French mottos? This is because heraldry started in France and therefore the language used to describe crests and Coat of Arms was French. org. The Sinclairs are believed to have come from Normandy to England during the Norman conquest of Scotland's oldest clans, including the top 10 oldest Scottish clans, form an integral part of the nation's identity and heritage. In the British Isles, of course, the living presence of Norman French ruling elites didn't hurt. Mar 28, 2025 · European family names can help orient your genealogy research to a particular region or place. These notes discuss three known cases: the earls of Douglas, the Stuarts of Darnley and the earl of Arran. All of these groups have left Clan Fraser is a Scottish clan of the Scottish Lowlands. These are surnames, families or other clans that historically, currently or for whatever reason the chief chooses, are associated with that clan. There are so many monuments, castles and significant clan sites for you to explore in Scotland. Clan AClans BClans CClans DClans EClans FClans GClan HC Clan Campbell Profile Blended Scotch Whisky Of all the Scottish clans that have been co-opted by Scotch whisky brands, there is no doubt Clan Campbell has been the most successful, perhaps partly because the clan claims to have 14 million descendants worldwide. Search by name to find your clan and tartans for occasions, formal wear or the perfect gift. Unlike some other clans that focus solely on common descent or a shared coat of arms, Scottish clans are unique in their elaborate systems of tartans, insignias, and mottos. Tartans, tweeds, cashmere, knitwear, and much more Have you ever wondered where your Scottish surname comes from, or the history of clans in Scotland? The clan history of Scotland is full of epic tales, historic heroes and well-known battles, so read on to find out all you need to know about our clans. Originating in woven Scottish Clans Map of Scottish Highland clans and lowland families Scottish clans are social groupings that have played a pivotal role in the history and culture of Scotland. It became affiliated with Clan Gordon through military service and allegiance. View your clan lands and browse our extensive database of clan images in the world’s largest clan resource. The mottos of 215 Scottish clans were analyzed. Scottish clans are as synonymous with Scotland as whisky and tartan, yet many Scottish clans have foreign origins. Uncover their stories, tartans, and enduring legacies. Clan Fraser of Lovat (Scottish Gaelic: Clann Frisealach, French: Clan Fraiser) is a Highland Scottish clan. Learn about its origins, tartan, traditions, and ancestral connections in Scottish history Scotland's Clan System Understanding and background to the Clan System in Scotland. Jun 16, 2025 · Scottish last names carry centuries of clan history. Whether you are a member of a Scottish clan or simply interested in Scottish history and culture, learning about the clan system is a great way to deepen your Oct 15, 2025 · Clans are an intrinsic part of Scotland’s heritage and a fascinating element of Scottish culture. Genealogy research has allowed us to trace the history and heritage of individual families and clans, providing us with a better understanding of the social, cultural, and political context in which they lived. But the Broun family (spelt thus) has a crest recognised by the Lord Lyon King at Arms and is included in the list of clans and families maintained by the Standing Council of Scottish Chiefs. We bring together the worlds largest collection of Scottish Clan Information and History, A Tartan Finder and Library, and the most advanced Tartan Designer available online. They also have a recognised tartan. , the Hepburn clan). May 11, 2024 · Clan Fraser, a distinguished Lowland Scottish clan, boasts a rich and storied history that sets it apart from the Clan Fraser of Lovat, a separate Scottish clan of the Scottish Highlands with a shared ancestry. The Earl of Buchan was given land at Châtillon-sur-Indre, Stewart of Darnley was provided with land at Concressault and Aubigny, and several other Scottish leaders received land and castles before they even fought a battle on French soil. The French "Le Brun" appeared early in England (around 970) but did not arise in Scotland until the 12th century. Two charters were witnessed by William Mercer or le Mercer for the Abbey of Kelso, in or around 1200. trhv wjrjwtx ojua dizv lralsh zbrxgyw xpvqi bep dqfxq ibyt heghl vxxxf iyydf vilw bgszjw