Crawford
Crawford
Crawford – Clan History, Crest & Heritage
Gaelic Name
None recorded
Clan Motto
“Tutum te robore reddam” – “I will give you safety by strength” – a noble statement of guardianship, resilience, and enduring protection.
Clan Crest Badge
A stag’s head erased Gules, attired with ten tynes Or, surmounted by a cross crosslet fitchée, symbolizing strength, vigilance, and sacred duty.
Plant Badge
Boxwood
Origins of the Clan
The name Crawford is territorial, deriving from the barony of Crawford in Lanarkshire. The family is widely believed to be of Norman origin, with connections to Reginald, a son of the powerful Earl of Richmond. He was among the Norman knights established in Scotland by King David I in the 12th century. Some traditions suggest possible Anglo-Danish ancestry as well.
One of the most famous legends involving the Crawfords tells of Sir Gregan Crawford, who in 1127 saved the life of King David I from a charging stag—an act that inspired the founding of the Abbey of Holyrood. For his bravery, Gregan and his family were granted lands and titles.
Rise to Prominence
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Sir Reginald Crawford was appointed Sheriff of Ayr in 1296. His sister, Margaret Crawford, married Malcolm Wallace, becoming the mother of Sir William Wallace, the Scottish national hero. The Crawfords supported Wallace and his cause against English domination during the Wars of Independence.
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By the 14th century, the family had split into significant branches, most notably:
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The Crawfords of Auchinames (Renfrewshire)
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The Crawfords of Craufurdland (Ayrshire)
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These branches played vital roles in Scottish political, military, and ecclesiastical life over the following centuries.
Military Valor and Nobility
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Sir William Crawford of Craufurdland fought in the service of King Charles VII of France and was knighted by James I of Scotland. He was wounded at the siege of Creyault in Burgundy (1423).
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John Crawford, also of Craufurdland, fought and died at the Battle of Flodden (1513) alongside James IV.
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Sir Thomas Crawford of Jordanhill led a daring raid to recapture Dumbarton Castle in 1571, a key strategic victory for the Regent’s forces. He later served in the household of Lord Darnley, husband of Mary, Queen of Scots.
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The Crawfords also fought at the Battle of Pinkie (1547), where Sir Thomas was captured and later ransomed.
Political and Cultural Influence
In addition to military leadership, the Crawfords held judicial and courtly roles:
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Sir Alexander Crawford of Kilbirnie was created a Baronet of Nova Scotia in 1641.
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The Crawfords were involved in royal service, particularly under the reign of James VI & I.
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The family maintained ancestral seats at Craufurdland Castle, which was continuously held by descendants into the modern era.
Tartan and Identity
The Crawford tartan reflects the clan’s Lowland identity, featuring bold and dignified tones symbolizing steadfastness and duty. It is worn today by descendants and those honoring Crawford ancestry worldwide.
Legacy and Emigration
In the 19th century, some members of the Crawford family emigrated to North America and the British colonies, especially Canada and the United States. Despite this diaspora, the family has preserved its legacy through noble service, military valor, and its connection to one of Scotland’s most celebrated national heroes.
Conclusion
Clan Crawford exemplifies the enduring qualities of courage, loyalty, and service. From the Highlands of Lanarkshire to the courts of kings and battlefields of Europe, the Crawfords have left an indelible mark on Scottish history. Their motto, “Tutum te robore reddam” – “I will give you safety by strength,” remains a testament to their legacy as guardians, warriors, and loyal subjects of Scotland.